Las Vegas Man Arrested in Connection to Series of Social Media-Facilitated Rapes Dating Back to 2015
In a disturbing development, the Los Angeles Police Department has arrested a Las Vegas man on suspicion of a series of rapes that took place as far back as 2015. The man in question is Matthew Werner, a 45-year-old Massachusetts native, who is believed to have targeted women using social media and dating applications under different aliases to avoid detection.
The arrest was made on February 28th, and the LAPD’s Operations-West Bureau’s Special Assault Section (SAS) is now calling for additional victims and witnesses to come forward. The sexual assaults took place in the areas of North Hollywood, Mid-City, Hollywood, and Woodland Hills. Police have identified five women who were assaulted within the City of Los Angeles, but they believe that there are others who have yet to come forward. It is believed that Werner has been involved in additional unreported sexual assaults, which is a deeply troubling thought.
According to LAPD, Werner is a white male who stands 6 feet tall and weighs 250 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes. He is currently in custody, and the police are asking for anyone with information that could lead to the identification of additional victims or witnesses to come forward. They have provided a contact number for the LAPD’s Operations-West Bureau, Special Assault Section, and are asking that individuals with information call 213-473-0447. If anyone wishes to remain anonymous, they should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to its website.
The news of Werner’s arrest has sent shockwaves through the community, and many are struggling to come to terms with the extent of his alleged crimes. LAPD detectives have described Werner as a highly dangerous individual who used social media and dating applications to prey on vulnerable women. Speaking to reporters, LAPD Captain Lillian Carranza stated, “We’re asking anyone who has had any contact with Mr. Werner, who may have interacted with him on social media or through dating apps, to please come forward.”
The LAPD has promised to leave no stone unturned in its investigation, and they have urged the public to remain vigilant. This is a deeply troubling case that highlights the dangers of social media and the need for individuals to be extra cautious when interacting with strangers online. As LAPD Captain Lillian Carranza said, “We want to remind everyone that you can never be too careful when it comes to your personal safety.”
Meanwhile, the victims of Werner’s alleged crimes are struggling to come to terms with what has happened to them. One victim, who wished to remain anonymous, told reporters, “It’s been a nightmare. I can’t believe that someone could do something like this. I’m just grateful that the LAPD caught him, and I hope that justice is served.”
The arrest of Matthew Werner is a reminder that sexual assault is a serious crime that can have devastating consequences. The LAPD is urging anyone who has information about Werner’s alleged crimes to come forward and help bring him to justice. As LAPD Captain Lillian Carranza said, “We need your help to make sure that no one else falls victim to this dangerous individual.”
