April 6, 2026: Man Charged with Kidnapping a UCLA Student, Rape of a Woman in Culver City

If convicted as charged, Alexander Schecter faces 37 years to life in state prison

LOS ANGELES - A 26-year-old man has been charged with kidnapping a female UCLA student in March 2026 and the rape of another woman in October 2025 in Culver City.

"The callous and deeply disturbing actions of the defendant have left three women with unimaginable trauma," Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said. "I want to first recognize the bravery of the victims for coming forward to report what happened to them. Their bravery not only brings us closer to justice but also helps us protect others. I urge anyone else who may have been victimized to come forward: You are not alone, you will be heard, and you will be treated with compassion and respect. Our Sex Crimes Division will vigorously prosecute this case and hold the responsible individual accountable for the harm he caused."

Alexander William Schecter (dob 11/21/99) of Santa Monica is charged in case 26ARCF00673 with one felony count of kidnapping to commit another crime; one felony count of first-degree residential robbery; two felony counts of forcible oral copulation; and one felony count of forcible rape. It is further alleged that offenses related to the October 2025 crime involved great violence, great bodily harm, threat of great bodily harm, and other acts disclosing a high degree of cruelty, viciousness and callousness. It also is alleged that all victims were particularly vulnerable.

Schecter's arraignment and bail review hearing was continued to May 4, 2026, in Department 30 of the Airport Courthouse. Bail remains set at $700,000. The prosecution will ask the Court to set bail at $1.4 million.

On Oct. 12, 2025, at approximately 3:15 a.m., Schecter allegedly sexually assaulted and raped a woman in Culver City.

On March 8, 2026, at approximately 3 a.m., Schecter allegedly kidnapped a female UCLA student in the 500 block of Landfair Avenue. Schecter was allegedly dropping off the student in the area when he allegedly prevented her from exiting his vehicle and threatened violence. The student was able to exit the vehicle approximately half a mile away on the 400 block of Gayley Avenue.

On March 12, 2026, UCLA Police arrested Schecter after identifying him as the suspect in the March kidnapping incident. During the investigation, Schecter was identified as the suspect in the October sexual assault and rape.

If convicted as charged, Schecter faces 37 years to life in state prison.

The case is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Matthew Bunnett of the Sex Crimes Division and remains under investigation by the University of California, Los Angeles Police Department.

Anyone who may have been a victim or has additional information regarding Alexander Schecter is urged to contact the Investigations Division at the University of California, Los Angeles Police Department at (310) 825-9371. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call LA Regional Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (800 222-8477) or visit www.lacrimestoppers.org.

Alexander Schecter

The charges filed in this case are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.