A mother and her 15-year-old daughter fought off a man police say tried to sexually assault them in broad daylight as they walked along a sidewalk in Anaheim on Wednesday.
The attack happened around noon near Lincoln Avenue and East Street, Anaheim police said in a Facebook post.
Investigators say the suspect, identified as 59-year-old Jose Gudino, jumped out of nearby bushes and tried to pull the pair off the sidewalk while threatening to sexually assault them.
Attempted sex assault suspect Jose Gudino is seen following his arrest on March 4, 2026. (Anaheim Police Department)
“The two fought back, broke free, and immediately called police, giving officers a detailed description of the suspect,” police said.
Officers used the description to identify Gudino, who was found less than two hours later and taken into custody without incident.
“While we never want incidents like this to happen in our city, Anaheim Police remain focused on responding quickly, using every available resource, and holding offenders accountable,” the department said.
Gudino was booked on suspicion of kidnapping and attempted sexual assault.
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