Attacks on the canals of Venice: Anthony Francisco Jones charged with murder after death of woman

LOS ANGELES (KABC) — A man suspected of attacking and sexually assaulting two women in the Venice canal area has been charged with murder following the death of one of the victims, prosecutors announced Tuesday.

The newly filed murder charge against 29-year-old Anthony Francisco Jones includes special allegations that he committed rape and sodomy during the execution of the murder, according to the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office.

Jones was originally charged with two counts of rape and one count each of sexual penetration by force, assault, torture, attempted murder and sodomy by force.

Prosecutors said the additional murder charge was added after the victim, 53-year-old Sarah Alden, died on May 24.

“We are committed to seeking justice for both victims of these heinous crimes,” District Attorney George Gascón said in a statement. “The additional murder charge carries a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole, in addition to the life sentences for the previously charged crimes.”

The two attacks occurred on the night of April 6. Jones was arrested days later in San Diego after allegedly fleeing.

Jones is due back in court at the Airport Branch Courthouse on June 11 for a hearing to determine if there is enough evidence to put him on trial. He is being held without bail.

City News Service contributed to this report.