Detectives Seeking for Additional Victims of Sexual Assault NR22276ml

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department's Juvenile Division detectives are seeking additional victims following the arrest of 37-year-old Jonh Erik Bastidas Arenas.

On Saturday August 13, 2022, an unknown suspect, later identified as Arenas was driving a 2021 White Toyota Prius and drove up next to a 13-year-old victim while walking home.

The suspect opened the passenger door of the car, displayed a weapon, and directed the victim to enter his vehicle. Out of fear the victim complied with his demand. While inside the vehicle, the suspect sexually assaulted the victim. The victim eventually escaped and fled on foot.

Detectives were able to locate surveillance video of the incident and discovered a possible suspect's vehicle. Using the vehicle's information, detectives identified a possible suspect, who was later positively identified by the victim.

Detectives discovered the suspect was employed as a contractor for multiple ride-share services. Jonh Erik Bastidas Arenas has been employed as a ride-share driver since September 2021.

On Thursday September 22, 2022, Arenas was arrested and transported to Van Nuys Station.

The investigation was presented to the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office. Upon reviewing the case the District Attorney's Office filed 288(b)1 pc - Lewd Act with Force or Fear with an enhancement of 667.61 pc, kidnap/knife allegations.

Jonh Erik Bastidas Arenas

Detectives are asking anyone who may be a victim or has additional information regarding Jonh Erik Bastidas Arenas to contact Juvenile Division detectives at (818) 374-5415. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org and click on "Anonymous Web Tips" under the "Get Involved-Crime Stoppers" menu. Tipsters may also download the "P3 Tips" mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.