He attempted to flee southbound on the beach but was apprehended a short distance away
A 25-year-old homeless man with a pending criminal case in Washington State was arrested after allegedly assaulting a sunbathing woman in Santa Monica.
The suspect, identified as Alonzo Dickson, reportedly climbed on top of the woman and began thrusting against her around 1:30 p.m. in the 1300 block of the beach. The victim quickly reacted, and with the help of her sister, managed to push Dickson away.
Dickson attempted to flee southbound on the beach but was apprehended a short distance away by police officers, who were alerted by lifeguards. He was positively identified by the victim and arrested on felony charges of sexual battery with restraint under California Penal Code 243.3.
Authorities have confirmed that Dickson has no known arrest record in California, though he is facing at least one unresolved criminal case in Washington State. Investigators are now looking into the details of that case as part of their ongoing investigation.
The suspect remains in custody, and the case will be presented to the District Attorney for filing consideration.
The Santa Monica Police Department is encouraging anyone with further information about the incident or the suspect to contact Detective Nicole Murphy at Nicole.Murphy@santamonica.gov or the Watch Commander at (310) 458-8427.