Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman has formally charged 33-year-old Ishmail Bangura with a brutal attack on a senior woman and a young child in West LA's Sawtelle neighborhood. According to Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, the charges include an alleged assault to commit forcible rape during the incident of a first-degree residential burglary, in addition to child abuse likely to result in great bodily injury or death.
"Violence against children and older adults — some of the most vulnerable members of our community — is beyond reprehensible," Hochman stated. Facing serious allegations, Bangura could end up with a life sentence plus an additional 13 years if convicted of the crimes, further necessitating his registration as a sex offender. The case presents a stark confrontation with the cruel realities festering beneath the veneer of community safety.
On February 27th, Bangura reportedly attacked the young child before entering the elderly woman's residence, assaulting and attempting to sexually assault her. Authorities assert that neighbors stepped in to intervene, allowing police to detain Bangura. The female victim sustained substantial injuries due to the assault.
During his arraignment, Bangura entered a plea of not guilty. Despite the weight of the accusations, the court set the defendant's bail at $2 million. A protective order has been placed to shield the victims from potential further harm. The preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 16 in Dept. W31 at the Airport Courthouse.
