Gang Rape in Richmond, California

Large group gang rapes teen while onlookers do nothing.

<br /><br />A hint of resignation tinges Margarita Vargas’ voice when she talks about the people who gang raped a 15-year-old girl at Richmond High School on Saturday.

<br /><br />&quot;They think it’s cool,&quot; said Vargas, who called police to report the ongoing assault. &quot;They weren’t raised to respect girls.&quot;

<br /><br />The investigation into the two-hour rape outside the school’s homecoming dance continued Tuesday, as police leafleted the campus to advertise a $20,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of anyone who participated. Detectives continued wall-to-wall interviews of students and former students, having already arrested a 15-year-old boy and 19-year-old Manuel Ortega. (pictured right)
&quot;This is a fluid investigation,&quot; Detective Ken Greco said. &quot;There will be more
arrests.&quot;

<br /><br />Police will meet with prosecutors Wednesday to discuss charges for those in custody.

<br /><br />Meanwhile, young people in Richmond increasingly feel as though they are on trial themselves, as a national chorus of gawkers judges them based on the inaction of the few who hooted and laughed, punched the girl as she lay semiconscious on a bench, and even joined in the assault after word of it got around.

<br /><br />http://www.contracostatimes.com/top-stories/ci_13651646

2009-10-27