Suspect arrested for attacking elderly woman in Santa Monica

A suspect has been arrested for allegedly attacking an elderly woman in Santa Monica.

The suspect was identified as Jalan Rodger James, 39, according to the Santa Monica Police Department.

The victim was identified as a 73-year-old woman. The incident occurred while the woman was taking a morning walk near the 1600 block of Ocean Front Walk.

That's when James started approaching her, shouting incoherently. The woman tried to move out of his way, but he suddenly walked toward her and knocked her to the ground, police said.

He continued to walk away, leaving the injured woman with abrasions on her hands and an injured back, authorities said.

A second call to police indicated the suspect was also seen trying to hit bystanders in the area.

Officers and a police drone unit responded to the scene where James was seen walking near 2nd Street and Colorado Avenue.

He was arrested on several charges, including:

• Criminal battery with serious bodily injury
• Abuse of elders/adults
• Two counts of resisting an officer

James is believed to be homeless, officials said. He also faces additional charges in another Santa Monica assault case being reviewed by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.

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

Anyone who may have been a victim or has information about the case is asked to contact Detective Holloway at [email protected] or the Watch Commander at 310-458-8427.