Police Charge Man in North Hollywood Sexual Assault Case

A man wanted in connection with the sexual assault of a woman in North Hollywood, California in March was charged with rape, while police sought other possible victims.

Louis Robert Mercado, of North Hollywood, allegedly followed a 37-year-old woman for several blocks along Lankershim Boulevard before pulling her into a nearby parking lot at about 12:45 a.m. on March 11, according to Los Angeles police. Mercado allegedly ordered the woman to undress and sexually assaulted her in the 6900 block of Lankershim Boulevard before fleeing, according to Detective Gretchen Zavala.

He was arrested near his home and charged with rape, kidnap for rape and rape in concert with force. He was being held on $1.6 million bail at Valley Jail. Detectives believe Mercado could be involved in other similar attacks throughout the North Hollywood Area, specifically the Lankershim Boulevard Corridor.

If you have been arrested or under investigation for sexual assault in Los Angeles county or San Fernando Valley, you will need to consult a qualified rape and sexual assault criminal defense lawyer. Once you have been accused of a sexual crime, your reputation is at stake. At Goldstein Law Group, we are Los Angeles sexual assault & rape criminal defense attorneys who have defended clients all types of sex crimes for decades. We are always committed to defending your rights and fighting your sex crime charges with determination. Sit down with us to discuss your charges with an experienced and skilled Los Angeles sex crimes criminal defense lawyer who will explore all possible measures to ensure you are not convicted of your statutory rape charges.

Your freedom is in jeopardy. Contact a Los Angeles rape lawyer at Goldstein Law Group to learn how we can assist you against your charges! All consultations are free, available 24/7, and strictly confidential.