UPDATE SUSPECT IN CUSTODY - Help SCPD Identify & Locate Suspect Who Struck Woman On Pacific Ave.

UPDATE: Suspect in custody. Brave victim makes a positive ID.
Late this afternoon, Lt. Garcia spotted Justin Schreiber at Cedar and Locust downtown. In short order, officers detained and arrested him for being under the influence of drugs, in addition to the felony assault and battery charge.

From a concealed and secure location, the victim looked at the suspect and positively identified him as the attacker. Justin Schreiber, 38 years old is a transient in Santa Cruz.

Good Work everyone! Now, let's rally behind the courageous victim and show her our support.  _______________________________________________________________

The Santa Cruz Police Department is requesting the community’s help in identifying a subject accused of striking a female near the intersection of Pacific Ave and Birch Lane. The crime occurred on April /27/2019 at 2:45pm.

The suspect captured in the attached video walked up behind the victim and tapped her shoulder. As the victim turned towards the suspect, he struck her in the face, while calling her a derogatory name. The suspect fled the area and was last seen running down Birch Ave. The victim sustained an injury to her nose and forehead. She was transported to the hospital by family members. 

The suspect is described as a white male, short/buzzed style hair, wearing a black shirt, and shorts. 

If anyone knows this person, or his location, the Santa Cruz Police Department requests you contact them.

The Santa Cruz Police Department urges anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information, to call our Investigations Section @ 831.420.5820. If you want to make an anonymous call regarding the incident, please call 831.420.5995