SANTA CRUZ — A homeless sex offender from Salinas was arrested Tuesday after allegedly groping several women on pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz Police spokeswoman Joyce Blaschke said.
Frank Benavidez, 43, was charged with multiple counts of assault with intent to commit rape, sexual battery, and false imprisonment. He was also charged with resisting arrest. He was booked into Santa Cruz County Jail in lieu of $125,000 bail.
Santa Cruz Police responded to a call of sexual battery had just occurred in the 900 block of Pacific Avenue just after 11 a.m.
The first victim, a woman fought off Frank Benavidez when he sexually groped her near the bus station. The second victim was a woman who had been walking on the sidewalk when Benavidez allegedly grabbed and physically assaulted her. The victim pushed the suspect off and he attacked her a second time, but was stopped by two good Samaritans who witnessed the attack.
Benavidez then ran across the street and grabbed a third woman from behind. The victim fought Benavidez off by punching and kicking him. He then chased after a fourth female and threatened to sexually assault her.
Benavidez is a recently registered as a transient sex offender in the City of Santa Cruz.
The victims were traumatized by the attack, and none required medical attention, Blaschke said.
Investigators believe there may be additional victims.
Detectives are reviewing video surveillance in the area.
Santa Cruz Police Chief Andrew Mills credited the people who came to the aid of the women
“I think that was brave for a citizen to step in and protect someone who was in trouble,” Mills said.
Mills also gave kudos to the quick response by SCPD officers, and said that the incident should not be an indicator of the safety of the city.
“Overall its a safe area,” he said. “We don’t have many problems.”
It is unclear what Benavidez was registered for. His name does not appear on the Megan’s Law website.
Also unclear is whether he was under the influence of drugs during the attacks, or whether he has mental issues.
“Obviously, this is not something a normal person would do,” Mills said.
Anyone with information is asked to call Santa Cruz Police Department Investigations Division at 420-5820, the anonymous tip line at 420-5995 or through the department’s mobile app.
SCPD is also working with the Commission for the Prevention of Violence Against Women to encourage and connect victims with resources and prosecute crimes of violence against women.
