Bystanders Rescue Teen from Rapist, Police Say

A convicted rapist was arrested by Seal Beach police for allegedly luring a teenage girl to his car and offering her alcohol, authorities said today.

Michael Lux, 64, of Los Angeles, was taken into custody on Thursday, and booked on suspicion of child annoyance and contributing to the delinquency of a minor, said Seal Beach police Cpl. Michael Henderson.

On May 24, someone called Seal Beach police to report that a “suspicious older male, later identified as Lux, and a teenage girl (were) sitting in a car together,” Henderson said.

“Prior to officers arriving, the teenage girl exited the car and Lux fled the area,” Henderson said.

“Interviews with witnesses revealed Lux approached the girl on the Seal Beach Pier and offered to give her a ride in his convertible,” Henderson said.

“The girl accompanied Lux to his car, where he offered her alcohol, displayed a large amount of cash and asked her to join him at his condominium,” Henderson said.

Two people who had been watching Lux and the girl “intervened and told the girl to get out of the car,” Henderson said.

“Lux became verbally confrontational with bystanders and fled before officers arrived on scene,” Henderson said.

The investigation led to Lux’ arrest. Lux is on federal probation for robbery, Henderson said.

“He is also alleged to be a sexual predator because of a history of sexual assaults and rape,” Henderson said.

Any other witnesses to the incident, or other possible victims, were urged to call Detective Chris Hendrix at (562) 799-4100, ext. 1109.

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City News Service

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