In a case that has drawn attention to the complexities of prosecuting sexual assault, three women have accused Matthew Leonard Werner of sexual assault, with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) confirming ongoing investigations into additional allegations.
Survivors’ Accounts Highlight Systemic Challenges
Shira Scott Astrof, one of the accusers, described meeting Werner on a dating app under the guise of an international soccer player named Sebastian Larsson. “I was frozen, like frozen. I couldn’t move. I couldn’t fight back,” Astrof said, recounting the assault that left her with a dislocated shoulder and severe trauma. LAPD Detective Brent Hopkins confirmed that Werner “would claim to be someone else” on dating platforms, using fabricated identities to lure victims.
Monica, a survivor from Massachusetts, described an experience when Werner allegedly attacked her during a New Year’s Eve party. “All of a sudden, he had me in a headlock,” she said. Monica later discovered Werner’s real identity and reported the assault, leading to a DNA test that confirmed he was the father of her child. While Werner denied the rape and any connection to the child, a court-ordered DNA test concluded the child is his.
Another survivor, identified as Janet, came forward after seeing Astrof’s story, revealing she was assaulted under the alias “Seth Voss.” “When his photograph came on screen, my body had a physical reaction,” she said. Janet provided digital evidence to police, including messages and location data, to support her claim.
Werner Avoids Prison Through Plea Deal
Werner was arrested in connection to Astrof’s case and charged with assault and sexual battery. Prosecutors, including Sandra Jimenez, negotiated a plea deal in which Werner pleaded no contest, resulting in a four-year suspended sentence, which meant no prison, just probation. “I’m still sickened and saddened that this rapist is walking free right now,” Astrof said in a 2023 interview.
The LAPD has not disclosed whether Werner’s probation includes specific restrictions, but investigators continue to seek more victims. “We know who it is, but we need you to pick his mugshot out,” a detective told Astrof during the investigation, according to her account.
Advocates Criticize Judicial System’s Handling of Cases
Advocates for survivors argue that the case reveals broader issues in how sexual assault cases are prosecuted. “No matter how courageous they are, they have found themselves caught in a system that is wrought with problems,” the report stated.
Monica’s case, which occurred many years ago, highlights the challenges of pursuing justice across jurisdictions. “We were contacted by a woman who had, unfortunately, been victimized by him in Massachusetts many years ago,” said Hopkins, indicating the LAPD is working to review past allegations.
Survivors’ Calls for Accountability
“You will be believed. Now you can come forward,” Astrof told other survivors in 2023, encouraging them to report their experiences. However, the case also highlights the risks faced by accusers, as Astrof noted that other victims in her initial case "got scared" and withdrew their statements.
Werner’s attorney did not respond to requests for comment, and the LAPD has not provided further details on ongoing investigations. The department reiterated its commitment to pursuing “all alleged victims connected to Werner.”
Advocates Criticize Judicial System as LAPD Considers Charges
“The answer paints a revealing picture of how our judicial system is broken,” advocates said. Meanwhile, the LAPD has not confirmed whether additional charges are being considered against Werner.
For survivors seeking support, resources are available through the National Sexual Assault Hotline at (800) 656-HOPE or online at rainn.org.
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