Elderly woman attacked while walking by the ocean; Suspect arrested

Suspect faces potential charges in another Santa Monica assault case awaiting review by district attorney

A 73-year-old woman was attacked Thursday near the 1600 block of Ocean Front Walk by a suspect, police said. The suspect, identified as Jalan Rodger James, 39, homeless, was arrested shortly after the incident on charges of battery on an elder and resisting arrest.

The victim told police that during her morning walk, James approached her yelling incoherently. Despite her attempt to move away, he intentionally pushed her to the ground. She suffered a back injury and abrasions to her hands while trying to break her fall.

Shortly after the initial incident, dispatchers received a second call reporting James attempting to hit bystanders. Within three minutes, the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) drone operator located James near 2nd and Colorado. The police arrived on the scene and arrested him.

The case was presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office after detectives gathered video footage and witness statements.

James faces charges of aggravated battery, elder/adult abuse and two counts of resisting an officer.

Additionally, James faces potential charges in another Santa Monica assault case pending review by the district attorney.

“The safety and well-being of our most vulnerable residents is a top priority for SMPD. Assaults against elderly people are taken very seriously and we will continue to pursue felony charges in these situations,” said Chief Ramon Batista.

Anyone with information related to this suspect or who he has harmed is asked to contact Detective Holloway at [email protected] or the Watch Commander at 310-458-8427, available 24/7 /7.