Sketch Released of Suspect in De Anza College Assault

Editor's note: This article is an updated version of one posted earlier Thursday. It containts new details of the suspect and steps taken by De Anza College to ensure student, staff and faculty safety.

A female De Anza College student was choked in a parking garage at the school early Thursday morning, but the suspect has not been found and police are asking the public for help.

The victim, whose name has not been released, is OK, said Sgt. Troy Smith, Santa Clara County Sheriff’s spokesman.

The suspect is described as a white male adult, about 5-foot 5-inches tall with blonde hair wearing a green sweater with white lettering and blue jeans. He spoke with a Russian accent. Police note that the suspect's hair is very light, which is reflected in the sketch which may make the suspect look bald—he is not, his hair is very light, officials said.

A composite sketch of the suspect is attached to this article.

The victim was approached by the suspect while she was walking on campus and he asked her for assistance. They walked to the parking garage where the suspect grabbed the victim and choked her until she was unconscious.

When the victim regained consciousness the suspect was gone and several unknown people stood over her asking if she was OK, police said.

The victim called for help saying she had been assaulted.

De Anza College notified students of the situation through an emergency notification system plus they have additional security on the campus and extended evening lighting, according to Marisa Spatafore, college spokeswoman. The school is encouraging students to walk in groups and be diligent in exercising caution, she said.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Detective Bureau at 408-808-4500.  Those who wish to stay anonymous can call the Sheriff’s Tip Line at 408-808-4431.