Man charged for killing LA County probation officer over weekend
A man has been charged with murdering a Los Angeles County probation officer at her Lancaster home last weekend.
The man -- whose identity is unknown -- is charged in a "John Doe" complaint with one count each of murder, assault with intent to commit rape during a residential burglary, first-degree residential burglary and sexual contact with deceased remains, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office Tuesday.
The incident was reported around 12:05 a.m. Sunday in the 45500 block of Barrymoore Avenue. It was there that authorities responded to a burglar/home invasion call.
When deputies arrived on scene, they located the woman suffering from blunt force trauma. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
On Monday authorities identified her as Paula Lind, 52. She was a probation officer for the County of Los Angeles with more than 15 years of experience.
Deputies also arrested the suspect on Sunday, but have been unable to definitively identify him far as he's suspected to be a transient in the area.
After investigation, they determined that the suspect entered Lind's residence by smashing through her sliding glass door. They would not specify what they believe the weapon used was.
"Our hearts are heavy today," said county Chief Probation Officer Adolfo Gonzales in a statement. ``Our officers work daily to help folks start over and rebuild their lives. Their work helps keep communities safe. It is horrifying to hear that one of our beloved officers passed in this manner. I am hopeful that the individual responsible for this attack will be held accountable and that justice will prevail. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Lind family, loved ones, and friends."
LA District Attorney George Gascón also issued a statement on the incident when announcing the criminal case, which read:
"The murder of Officer Lind has shocked all of Los Angeles County, and we in the District Attorney's Office extend our condolences to her family, friends and Probation Department colleagues. That this officer who dedicated her career to public safety fell victim to senseless and depraved violence in her home is beyond tragic. We will do all in our power to hold the person responsible for this to account."
Anyone with information about this incident was asked to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.
