A Santa Monica man was taken into custody Monday on suspicion of kidnapping two UCLA students and raping an additional woman, according to law enforcement sources.
Background
The Los Angeles Police Department began investigating the suspect following reports of missing persons from the UCLA campus. Detectives uncovered what they describe as a pattern of alleged criminal behavior spanning multiple victims. The investigation involved coordination between local police and federal authorities, sources said.
The two UCLA students were reported missing separately, according to department spokespeople. Investigators later determined both cases may be connected to the same suspect.
The Investigation
Law enforcement officers arrested the Santa Monica resident following a joint investigation by the LAPD's Missing Persons Unit and the FBI. Detectives executed a search warrant at a residence in Santa Monica, where they recovered evidence allegedly linking the suspect to the crimes.
The suspect is being held at a Los Angeles County jail facility without bail. He has not yet been formally charged, though prosecutors with the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office are reviewing the case for potential felony charges including kidnapping and sexual assault.
Authorities have not released the names of the alleged victims, citing privacy laws and the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Key Takeaways
- A Santa Monica man has been arrested on suspicion of kidnapping two UCLA students
- The same suspect is alleged to have raped an additional woman
- LAPD's Missing Persons Unit and the FBI conducted the joint investigation
- A search warrant was executed at a Santa Monica residence
- The suspect is being held without bail while prosecutors review the case
What's Next
The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office is expected to file formal charges against the suspect within the next 72 hours. Detectives continue to investigate whether additional victims may exist. The UCLA campus community has been advised to contact law enforcement if anyone has information related to these incidents.