The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the assailants involved in a series of alleged attacks against Sabrina de La Peña, a transgender woman and business owner, KTLA reports. The announcement was made this week amidst an investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department into the suspected hate crimes, which have occurred repeatedly at de La Peña's Westlake District store since April 2025.
According to the LAPD,, the attacks included various forms of physical violence and threats - weapons like skateboards, pepper spray, and tasers have been utilized, FOX 11 notes. De La Peña, who is 61, has faced sexual assault and survived multiple physical assaults; one suspect was previously arrested on May 27, though others remain at large. Surveillance photos of the suspects have been released in an effort to solicit public assistance. De La Peña described in a harrowing account how she endured an onslaught of violence, ending up with "serious injuries", and having approximately $30,000 stolen from her during the attacks.
Chair Pro Tem and First District Supervisor Hilda Solis has been vocal in her condemnation of the hate crimes. "This violent hate crime has no place in our neighborhoods," Solis said. "Now more than ever, we must reject hate and safeguard our most vulnerable communities, which include our transgender and LGBTQ+ Angelenos. I encourage anyone who may have information to please come forward," as per CBS News Los Angeles.
During these ordeals, the suspects have not only inflicted physical pain but also the trauma of verbal threats. De La Peña recounted the terror she faced, saying in an interview with CBS News Los Angeles, "They punched me. They kicked me. I tried to go outside, they pushed me inside. I received more than 50 punches. After that, I started screaming, and when nobody was coming, I said OK and asked God why?" LAPD's Rampart Division Detectives are currently in charge of the investigation, actively seeking tips from the public and potential additional victims. Anyone with information is urged to contact the authorities or to remain anonymous; tipsters can reach out to LA Regional Crime Stoppers.
