Elderly woman attacked on beach promenade; suspect arrested

The suspect faces charges in another assault case in Santa Monica pending an investigation by the District Attorney’s Office

A 73-year-old woman was attacked by a male suspect near the 1600 block of Ocean Front Walk on Thursday, police said. The suspect, identified as 39-year-old Jalan Rodger James, who is homeless, was arrested shortly after the incident on charges of assault on an elderly person and resisting arrest.

The victim told officers that James approached her during her morning walk and heard incomprehensible yelling. Although she tried to move aside, he intentionally pushed her to the ground. She suffered a back injury and abrasions to her hands as she tried to break her fall.

Shortly after the first incident, officers received a second call reporting James was attempting to strike passersby. Within three minutes, the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) drone pilot spotted James near the corner of 2nd and Colorado. Officers arrived on scene and arrested him.

The case was presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office after detectives collected video footage and witness statements.

James is charged with aggravated assault, elder abuse and two counts of resisting an officer.

In addition, James may face charges in another assault case in Santa Monica, pending review by the District Attorney.

“The safety and well-being of our most vulnerable residents is SMPD’s highest priority. Assaults on the elderly are taken very seriously and we will continue to pursue felony charges in these cases,” said Police Chief Ramon Batista.

Anyone with information regarding this suspect or who has been harmed by him is asked to contact Detective Holloway at [email protected] or the Watch Commander at 310-458-8427 (24 hours).