A transgender shopkeeper in Los Angeles has been the target of a series of violent attacks, raising serious concerns about safety in the community. Sabrina De La Peña, 61, who has run her convenience store in the Westlake area for nearly 30 years, was assaulted multiple times over a short period in April.
The troubling incidents began on April 8 when De La Peña rejected the advances of a man in her store. Following this, he sexually assaulted her and threatened her life upon discovering she was transgender. The situation escalated when he returned with two accomplices, attacking her again. Surveillance footage captured the men repeatedly punching her and striking her with a skateboard.
De La Peña described her life as having changed dramatically since the assaults, saying she now lives in fear and panic. “For almost 30 years, I felt safe,” she said. “Now, I am full of so many fears, so much panic. I don’t think I will ever be the same again.”
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has arrested one suspect, identified as Samuel Parros, 30. He faces charges of assault with a deadly weapon. However, two other suspects remain at large. The LAPD has released images of these individuals, seeking help from the public to identify them.
The attacks did not stop after the arrest of Parros. De La Peña reported that she was assaulted yet again while he was in custody. The ongoing violence has left her with serious injuries and deep emotional scars.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the remaining suspects or similar incidents to come forward. The community is rallying around De La Peña, emphasizing the need for safety and support for vulnerable individuals.
As this situation unfolds, it highlights the ongoing issue of violence against transgender individuals and the urgent need for protective measures in the community.