News Releases

If convicted as charged, Ishmail Bangura faces life in prison

LOS ANGELES — District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman today announced that Ishmail Bangura, 33, has been charged with assaulting a 63-year-old woman during a first-degree residential burglary with the intent to commit rape and attacking a young child in the West Los Angeles neighborhood of Sawtelle on Feb. 27.

“Violence against children and older adults — some of the most vulnerable members of our community — is beyond reprehensible,” said District Attorney Hochman. “I am committed to keeping dangerous criminals off our streets, and we will vigorously prosecute this case and seek justice.”

Ishmail Bangura (DOB 10/27/91) is charged in case 25ARCF00374 with one felony count of assault to commit a forcible rape during the commission of a first-degree residential burglary. It is alleged that in the commission of the sexual offense, the defendant inflicted great bodily injury upon the victim. He is also charged with one felony count of child abuse under circumstances or conditions likely to cause great bodily injury or death. For both charges, it is further alleged that the offenses involved great violence and other acts disclosing a high degree of cruelty; the victims were particularly vulnerable; and the defendant’s violent conduct indicates a serious danger to society.

On Feb. 27, Bangura allegedly attacked a young child inside an apartment complex. He then allegedly entered the home of a 63-year-old woman, physically attacked her and subsequently sexually assaulted her outside of her home. Neighbors intervened and Bangura was detained by law enforcement. As a result of the assault, the victim suffered substantial injury.

Defendant was arraigned today and pled not guilty. The next court date is set for April 16 as a preliminary hearing setting in Dept. W31 at Airport Courthouse. The Court set bail at $2 million after the People’s preventative detention motion was denied. A criminal protective order was issued for the victims.

If convicted as charged, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life plus 13 years in state prison. He would also be required to register as a sex offender for life.        

The case was investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department and is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Matthew T. Bunnett of LADA’s Sex Crimes Division. 

The charges filed in this case are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

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