LOS ANGELES, CA – A man accused of forcibly kidnapping a woman in East Los Angeles on Thanksgiving Day has been arrested and charged, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department announced Wednesday.
The incident occurred on Nov. 28 in the 1200 block of Dickson Avenue. Deputies were dispatched to the location after receiving reports of a woman being physically assaulted and forced into a vehicle. Surveillance footage captured by nearby security cameras provided critical evidence in the case, authorities said.
The video shows a visibly distressed woman exiting a white SUV before a man approaches her. In the footage, the suspect is seen throwing her to the ground as she attempts to leave the vehicle. The man then picks her up and forces her back into the SUV, where the assault continues. The vehicle subsequently leaves the area with both the suspect and the victim inside.
Investigators worked quickly to identify the suspect as Ivan Cruz, a resident of Santa Fe Springs. He was apprehended at his home without incident, deputies reported. The victim, who was identified as Cruz’s girlfriend, was later located in East Los Angeles. She sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene by Los Angeles County Fire Department personnel.
Cruz has been charged with felony kidnapping and domestic violence. He remains in custody with bail set at $1 million, officials confirmed.
The Sheriff’s Department praised witnesses who initially reported the incident, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in resolving violent crimes. “Witnesses played a critical role in ensuring the safety of the victim and providing evidence that led to the swift identification and apprehension of the suspect,” the department said in a statement.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have additional information about the incident to contact the Major Crimes Bureau at 562-946-7893. Those wishing to remain anonymous can submit tips through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or online at www.lacrimestoppers.org.
This case underscores the ongoing commitment of law enforcement to address domestic violence and ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals, the Sheriff’s Department added.
