The Irvine Police are searching for a man who yelled derogatory comments at several women

Last Saturday, around 5:35 P.M., eight women were approached by a male on a bicycle at Mason Park, according to the Irvine Police Department.

The subject yelled derogatory comments at the women and rode away.

The subject returned and continued to yell derogatory remarks at the females. One victim recorded the incident, and the subject grabbed her cell phone and threw it into the pond.

The IPD is asking the community for help identifying this man.

He is a 30 to 35-year-old Persian who was last seen wearing a white T-shirt, yellow shorts, and sunglasses. His T-shirt was imprinted with a large heart and the text “Wellness is for everyone.”

Persians are an Iranian ethnic group from West Asia. They are indigenous to the Iranian plateau and comprise the majority of the population of Iran.

If you can identify the suspect, please contact Detective Blevins at cblevins@cityofirvine.org.

Based on California law, the suspect in the Mason Park incident could face multiple misdemeanor charges depending on the circumstances and evidence. Here’s a breakdown of the potential penalties:

1. Assault (Penal Code § 240 PC)

If the suspect grabbed the phone and threw it in a way that could have caused injury or was perceived as threatening, it may qualify as simple assault.

• Penalty: Up to 6 months in county jail and/or a fine up to $1,000 1.

2. Damaging a Communication Device (Penal Code § 591.5 PC)

Throwing the phone into the pond may be considered malicious damage to a wireless communication device, especially if it was done to prevent the victim from calling for help.

• Penalty: Classified as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in county jail.

3. Harassment (Penal Code § 653m and Civil Code § 527.6)

Yelling derogatory remarks repeatedly at a group of women may qualify as harassment, especially if it caused emotional distress or fear.

• Penalty: If prosecuted as a misdemeanor, it can result in up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $1,000.
• If the behavior escalated to stalking or threats, felony charges could apply, with up to 5 years in prison.

Additional Consequences

• Restraining Orders: Victims may seek temporary or permanent restraining orders against the suspect.
• Civil Liability: The suspect could also face civil lawsuits for emotional distress or property damage.