LAPD Seek New Leads in Near Two Decades Old Teardrop Rapist Case

After almost 20 years and 35 assaults, police in Los Angeles are still searching for a serial rapist known as the “Teardrop Rapist” and are now asking the public for help in tracking him down.

Fox LA reports that police believe the Teardrop Rapist(named for a “teardrop” marking on his face) is one man responsible for dozens of rapes since 1996 throughout Hollywood and South L.A. Police said the assailant reportedly stalks women at bus stops and sidewalks and uses a knife or gun to force them into a secluded area where he rapes them. After analyzing the multiple composite drawings of the Teardrop Rapist provided to them by victims, police have doubts about what the teardrop marking on his face might actually be:

But, because they have had a number of composite drawings given the descriptions from many victims that “teardrop” may not be what they first thought it was. Commander Andrew Smith says it could have been a scar that looked like a teardrop, a teardrop tattoo, a tattoo of 2 or more teardrops or even a temporary tattoo used only in the attacks.

Police have exhausted hundreds leads and sources including DNA found at at least 10 of the attacks. Despite offering a $100,000 reward and utilizing the work of an FBI profiler, they still have no suspects.

According to the LA Times,the Teardrop Rapist’s victims range between the age of 14-41. The last known reported assault was on Naomi Avenue near 25th in 2012. He reportedly tried to assault a woman, but ran off when a car approached. Police said their leads have gone cold and are now hoping the public can offer more information:

Even after detectives followed up on hundreds of leads, enlisted the help of FBI profilers and offered a $100,000 reward, the attacker has eluded authorities for more than 18 years.

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The attacker is described as a Latino about 40 to 55 years old, weighing 130 to 170 pounds and standing between 5-foot-2 and 5-foot-6, with brown hair, brown eyes and a light complexion. He sometimes wears a bandanna, beanie or baseball hat.

The LAPD is asking anyone with information to call their 24-hour number (877) 527-3247; information can also be emailed to [email protected]. There is also a Facebook page offering information on the case and asking for tips.