A man accused of being a serial rapist was recently arrested by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) for allegedly sexually assaulting victims inside a box-shaped camper van referred to as a “rape dungeon on wheels.”
According to FOX11, 40-year-old Eduardo Sarabia was apprehended at the crime scene earlier this week on Monday, May 13. Authorities have since indicated that they are searching for additional possible victims.
Sarabia currently faces two charges of rape. Officials from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department revealed that these two incidents occurred on Sunday, May 12, and Monday.
On Monday, two officers arrested Sarabia inside a white van parked along Highway 39 in the Angeles National Forest. Investigators revealed that Sarabia is a homeless individual and an undocumented immigrant from Mexico.
Sources disclosed that the vehicle used by Sarabia for the crimes was described as a “mobile rape dungeon,” equipped with disturbing sexual assault facilities. The 2015 Ford Transit van has no windows in the rear and is currently impounded by authorities under 24-hour surveillance.
Authorities of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department explained that Sarabia was apprehended in a remote area of the San Gabriel Mountains in the Azusa Canyon. Witnesses recounted that the suspect had taken a 26-year-old victim to a dark roadside junction near the highway.
Local residents expressed their hope that the perpetrator will no longer be a threat in the community.
Rita Miller, a resident of Azusa, stated, “This is absolutely terrifying, we don’t feel safe even on our own streets. The difference in the environment from now to the past is unbelievable. You can’t even take public transportation without fear, there have just been two stabbings. It’s really horrifying.”
Anna Dueñas, a resident of Duarte, commented, “This is truly terrifying. It’s not safe here, and I have children, so this worries me. I’m glad he’s been caught, at least his threat is over.”
Sarabia was formally charged and appeared in court on Wednesday, May 15. He was denied bail and is scheduled to appear in court again in June.
Given the severity of the case, authorities are actively seeking more potential victims. Anyone with information is urged to call the LASD’s Special Victims Bureau hotline at 877-710-5273 to report.
Additionally, the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) offers a 24/7 hotline for victims of sexual assault nationwide, providing professional assistance. Those in need can call 1-800-656-4673 for help. ◇