LBPD investigating rape claim at Allegria

The Long Beach Police Department is an investigating an early morning rape that allegedly occurred at the Allegria Hotel on Saturday.

The incident happened on May 26, according to the Police Department, who said that detectives have obtained a search warrant after a woman reportedly claimed that she was raped at the posh hotel.

“Our detectives executed a search warrant and conducted extensive interviews with staff and patrons,” said Sgt. Eric Cregeen, a spokesman for the department. “The hotel has been very cooperative with our investigation.”

Cregeen said detectives interviewed both hotel staff and patrons present during the time of the alleged attack.

CBS News, citing an unnamed police source, reported that the hotel turned over surveillance video that showed eight men entering and exiting a room where the alleged crime took place.

Cregeen said he could not comment on specific details of the investigation.

“Due to the sensitive nature [of the alleged crime], I can’t say anything that might compromise our investigation,” Cregeen said.

The Allegria has become known for its bustling nightlife scene, and Cregeen said the hotel featured live music on Friday night, during a busy Memorial Day weekend. Cregeen said he could not comment on whether the alleged attack was related to any events or parties at the hotel earlier in the night. Mike Witte, the hotel’s general manager, said that the hotel has been fully cooperating with the police investigation.

“We are fully cooperating, we have provided any and all evidence that police have subpoenaed,” Witte said. “We are patiently waiting for a resolution ...”

LBPD investigating West End incident

Reports of a rumored sexual assault that occurred in the West End on Wednesday could not be confirmed by the Long Beach Police Department on Thursday, and Cregeen would only say that detectives are investigating an incident in that area. Cregeen said he could not disclose the location or the nature of the incident currently under investigation. One police source who asked to remain anonymous said that the incident is not related to the alleged rape at the Allegria.

“We are investigating an event that occurred down west, and at this point it’s being classified as a local investigation,” Cregeen said.