Attempt Rape Suspect arrested after Foot Pursuit

Los Angeles:  An attempt rape suspect was injured as he was trying to flee from an off-duty Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officer. 

On May 17, 2025 at about 9:10 p.m., LAPD Hollenbeck Division Patrol Officer Jonathan Maldonado, a three year veteran of the Department, was off duty and walking to his car when he heard a woman screaming.

Officer Maldonado went to investigate and saw the suspect, Martin Gonzalez, choking a woman with his hands.  Officer Maldonado drew his service pistol and identified himself as a police officer.  The suspect stopped choking the woman and ran away. 

Officer Maldonado confronted Gonzalez and pushed him to the ground.  The suspect broke free and continued running.  Gonzalez suddenly turned around and grabbed the wrist of the hand that Officer Maldonado was using to hold onto his firearm.  The officer was able to pull free and struck the suspect on the head several times with his service pistol.  On-duty Hollenbeck Patrol officers saw Officer Maldonado attempt to detain the suspect and with their assistance, Gonzalez was taken into custody.

No officers were injured during the incident and the suspect was treated for minor injuries at a local hospital.

Suspect Martin Gonzalez, 22, was booked and being held on $100,000 bail. 

Force Investigation Personnel are conducting the investigation.

Comments

[Ben C.]

GREAT job Officer Maldonado. People who run from law enforcement are morons.

[NDynamite]

Let's see if the Chief tries to take away our handguns for striking a suspect in head.

[Officer/Citizen]

Excellent work. This type of conduct on the part of the officer should be hightlighted by the Media. I would love to see these types of events, when officers show extreme courage and selflessness, paraded for everyone to see.

I am sure the victim is also greatful for her LAPD guardian angel.