Crime & Safety
LAPD and City Council Offer Reward for Crime Against Transgender Woman
The LAPD makes the announcement about a $25,000 reward during a press conference on Tuesday.
The Los Angeles Police Department Hollywood Division is offering a $25,000 reward, approved on Tuesday by the City Council, for anyone with information leading to the arrest of four men who assaulted a transgender woman last month.
The reward was announced on Tuesday during a press conference.
The crime occurred on May 31 around 2:30 a.m., according to police.
"In the iconic intersection of Hollywood and Vine, a tragedy occurred," Hollywood LAPD Captain Beatrice Girmala said at a press conference on Tuesday.
The woman, known as Vivian, was in a confrontation with a group of men who later assaulted her, and "violently struck and kicked her," Girmala said.
Vivian Diego was repeatedly kicked while lying "motionless" on the ground, said Lt. Marc Reina.
Police still have questions about exactly what led to the attack against Diego, who lives in Hollywood.
"The reason for the initial confrontation is unknown," Reina said. "We are not classifying this as a hate crime at this time."
The assailants later fled from the scene, heading eastbound on Hollywood Boulevard, according to Reina.
"This is a crime that makes you feel sick to your stomach," said Carolyn Ramsay, chief of staff for Councilmember Tom LaBonge.
Diego, 22, was hospitalized for seven days as a result of her injuries, Reina said. Police say there is now an urgent need to appeal to the public for help.
"We are reaching a slow down in the investigative process which causes us great concern," Girmala said.
Police have surveillance video of the suspects from the night of the incident, and Reina said he has a message for the suspects.
"Do the right thing, and turn yourself in," Reina said.
Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call the LAPD Hollywood Area Division at (213)972-2967, or send an email to hollywoodcrimetips@gmail.com.
