UCLA: Man Arrested in Kidnapping & Sexual Assault Cases

Santa Monica Man Arrested in Connection with UCLA Kidnapping and Separate Sexual Assault

A Santa Monica man, Alexander Schecter, 24, has been arrested by the UCLA Police Department on suspicion of kidnapping two UCLA students and committing a sexual assault against a woman with no affiliation to the university. The unfolding case, which began with a reported incident on March 8th, now involves allegations spanning nearly seven months, raising concerns about potential additional victims. Schecter was initially arrested March 12th on kidnapping and false imprisonment charges, posting bail shortly thereafter, before being re-arrested Friday on more serious charges including rape.

The Initial Kidnapping Report

On March 8th, at approximately 3:00 a.m., UCLA police responded to a report of a possible kidnapping and false imprisonment in the 500 block of Landfair Avenue. According to police statements, two female UCLA students reported being prevented from exiting a vehicle by a man – later identified as Alexander Schecter – who allegedly threatened them with violence. Fearing for their safety, the students remained in the car while Schecter drove them approximately half a mile to the 400 block of Gayley Avenue.

Following the initial investigation, detectives identified Schecter as the suspect and arrested him on March 12th on suspicion of kidnapping and false imprisonment. He was subsequently released after posting bail, according to authorities. The case appeared to be progressing as a straightforward kidnapping and false imprisonment until further investigation revealed a disturbing connection to a previously unreported crime.

A Second Investigation Uncovers a Sexual Assault

While continuing to investigate the March 8th incident, UCLA Police detectives uncovered evidence linking Schecter to a sexual assault that occurred on October 12, 2025. This assault involved an adult female victim who has no known connection to UCLA. The incident took place between 2:00 a.m. And 5:00 a.m. In the area of Venice Boulevard and Clarington Avenue in Los Angeles.

This novel information prompted a second arrest of Schecter on Friday, March 20th, at his Santa Monica home. He was booked on one count of rape by force, one count of forcible oral copulation, one count of robbery, one count of extortion and one count of battery and is currently being held on $600,000 bail, according to reports. He is scheduled to appear in court on April 15th.

Confirmed vs. Unclear Details

Here’s a breakdown of what is confirmed and what remains unclear as of Wednesday, March 25, 2026:

Confirmed: Alexander Schecter, 24, of Santa Monica, has been arrested twice by the UCLA Police Department.
Confirmed: The first arrest, on March 12th, was related to the alleged kidnapping and false imprisonment of two UCLA students on March 8th.
Confirmed: The second arrest, on March 20th, was related to a previously unreported sexual assault that occurred on October 12, 2025.
Confirmed: The victim in the October 2025 assault has no known affiliation with UCLA.
Unclear: The specific details of the sexual assault, beyond the charges filed, have not been publicly released.
Unclear: The nature of the threats made to the UCLA students during the alleged kidnapping remains unspecified.
Unclear: Whether Schecter has legal representation at this time.

UCLA Police Appeal for Additional Information

The UCLA Police Department believes that Alexander Schecter may have additional victims and is urging anyone with information related to these incidents to reach forward. Individuals with information are encouraged to contact the department’s investigations division at (310) 825-9371. This appeal underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the potential for a wider pattern of criminal behavior.

How the Investigation Process Works

Following an arrest, particularly one involving serious felony charges like those facing Schecter, a specific legal process unfolds. First, the case is presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office for review. Prosecutors will evaluate the evidence gathered by the UCLA Police Department to determine if there is sufficient probable cause to file formal criminal charges. If charges are filed, an arraignment will be scheduled, where Schecter will be formally presented with the charges and enter a plea. Following the arraignment, the case will proceed through the court system, potentially involving preliminary hearings, discovery, and a trial. Fox LA provides further details on the process.

Resources for Sexual Assault Survivors

For individuals affected by sexual assault, resources are available. The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) operates a 24/7 national sexual assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673. RAINN provides confidential support and resources to survivors of sexual violence. RAINN’s website offers a wealth of information and assistance.

What we have is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.