The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is appealing to the public for help following a disturbing sexual assault incident captured on video at a California Whole Foods location.

Details of the Incident at Valencia Whole Foods

The upsetting act occurred while a female shopper was browsing items on a lower shelf inside the store. Security camera footage recorded the suspect approaching the unsuspecting woman.

Suspect Actions Captured on Video

The footage shows the man approaching the victim, lowering his pants, and pressing his exposed genitals against the woman’s ear. According to reports shared by KTLA, the individual appeared to be holding a cellphone during the commission of the assault.

The incident took place at the Valencia store on March 23. Police describe the suspect as a man in his mid-30s, who was wearing a denim shirt and jeans at the time.

Official Response and Investigation Status

Whole Foods issued a statement acknowledging the event, expressing deep concern over the incident. The company emphasized that customer safety remains their highest priority.

The grocery retailer confirmed its full cooperation with law enforcement. "We have provided all requested information to law enforcement," the statement read.

Public Appeal for Information

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is actively seeking leads to identify the perpetrator shown in the video evidence. They urge anyone with relevant information to contact the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station at 260-4000.

For those wishing to provide tips anonymously, contact information is available through LA Crime Stoppers by calling 222-8477 or visiting their official website.

Community Reaction to Public Incident

Local residents voiced alarm over the brazen nature of the crime occurring in a public setting. Ellie Perico, a nearby resident and retired law enforcement officer, shared her concerns with CBS News.

Perico stated, "That is alarming because if you're going to do that in public, in front of people, in front of cameras, you don't know what they're doing in private, in bathrooms, parks." She noted that she raises her children to maintain hyper-awareness, especially in communities perceived as safe.

She concluded that residents in such areas can sometimes become "a little too trusting of people" when they are not exposed to such dangers.