Man In Clown Mask Accused Of Sexual Assault; Additional Victims Sought

VICTORVILLE, CA — A Southern California man wearing a clown mask was accused of a sexually assaulting one woman and robbing another in Victorville, authorities said. Police believe there may be additional victims and are urging them to come forward.

The first reported incident was reported in a parking lot near an ATM machine, where a woman told dispatchers she was robbed by a man wearing a clown mask and red sweater, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department.

Deputies spotted Joel Hernandez, of Hesperia, walking in the area matching the description and detained him. He was identified by the victim as the person who robbed her, officials said

As the investigation continued, deputies learned of a separate incident that happened moments before the robbery. A woman reported that she was sexually assaulted and groped in the parking lot of the El Super Market by a man wearing a white clown mask and red sweatshirt.

The second victim also identified Hernandez as the suspect who assaulted her, police said.

Hernandez was arrested on suspicion of sexual battery and robbery and booked into the High Desert Detention Center for both charges with a bail of $200,000, officials said.

Police released a photo of Hernandez because they believe there are more victims who have not come forward.