In a disturbing series of events, the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) is on the hunt for additional victims of a gardener accused of committing multiple sexual battery offenses. The suspect, identified as 38-year-old Meliton Santoyo Jaramillo from Norwalk, has been apprehended in La Mirada and held without bail at the Long Beach City Jail.
Pattern of Abuse Emerges
Jaramillo is facing three counts of sexual battery stemming from three distinct incidents that all occurred near the intersection of Bellflower Boulevard and Wardlow Road:
- August 2023: Elderly female victim targeted
- August 2023: Second elderly female victim assaulted
- February 22, 2024: Adult female victim attacked
In a disheartening revelation, investigators believe that Jaramillo was employed as a gardener for the victims in each of these attacks.
Community Alert: Additional Victims Sought
LA News Center urges the public to come forward if they have any information about these incidents or suspect that they may have been victims of Jaramillo’s predatory behavior. The LBPD is eager to gather as much evidence as possible to bring justice to these vulnerable victims.
How to Report Information
To aid in the investigation, the LBPD encourages residents to report any relevant details by:
- Calling the dedicated hotline at 562-570-7368
- Submitting anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)
- Visiting the Crime Stoppers website at lacrimestoppers.org
By working together, the community can ensure that all victims receive the support and justice they deserve.
Safeguarding Our Communities
The LA News Center applauds the efforts of the LBPD in promptly apprehending the suspect and safeguarding the well-being of Long Beach residents. Sexual battery is a heinous crime that inflicts lasting trauma on its victims. It’s imperative that we continue to speak up against such acts and support those who have been affected.
If you or someone you know has been the victim of sexual assault, know that you are not alone. There are resources available to provide assistance and support. Please reach out to the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE or visit their website at rainn.org.
