SMPD Seeks Information and Other Potential Victims In Case
By Dolores Quintana
On August 4, 2023, Santa Monica Police Officers apprehended Fernando Vinicio Chavez on charges of Assault to Commit Rape, Penal Code 220a (1) PC. Chavez is currently in custody without bail following a preliminary hearing in Orange County. Law enforcement is now reaching out to the public in an effort to identify any additional victims or witnesses related to this case.
The investigation revealed that Chavez and the victim crossed paths while Chavez was working in Downtown Los Angeles. Subsequently, they arranged to meet after Chavez completed his shift. Their rendezvous took them to Santa Monica Beach, where, following the victim’s refusal to engage in sexual activity, Chavez allegedly subjected her to a violent assault.
Chavez already faces pending charges from the Orange Police Department for Assault to Commit Rape and Forcible Penetration with a Foreign Object. Santa Monica Police Detectives are keen to gather information from anyone who may have encountered Chavez or experienced similar incidents involving him.
Suspect Information:
- Name: Fernando Vinicio Chavez
- Description: Male Hispanic/Latino, 27 years old, black hair, brown eyes, 5′ 11″, approximately 175 pounds.
The Santa Monica Police Department urges anyone with information related to this case to contact the following investigators:
- Detective Holloway at 310-458-8934
- Detective Spencer at 310-458-8420
- Sgt. Goodwin at 310-458-8931
- Watch Commander (24 Hours) at 310-458-8427
The information provided by the public will aid in furthering the investigation and bringing justice to any potential victims. All tips and leads will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
