Santa Monica Man Formally Charged With Sex Crimes Against 2 Women

A 26-year-old man accused of kidnapping a UCLA student in Westwood and sexually assaulting a woman in Culver City has been formally charged, prosecutors said Monday.

Alexander William Schecter, 26, of Santa Monica faces multiple felony counts, including kidnapping to commit another crime, first-degree residential robbery, forcible oral copulation and forcible rape, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.

Schecter's arraignment and bail review hearing was continued to May 4.

Bail remains set at $700,000; however, prosecutors said they'll seek to have it increased to $1.4 million.

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

According to prosecutors, he allegedly sexually assaulted a woman about 3:15 a.m. Oct. 12, 2025, in Culver City.

He is also accused of kidnapping a female UCLA student about 3 a.m. March 8 in the 500 block of Landfair Avenue. Authorities allege Schecter was dropping off the student but prevented her from exiting his vehicle and threatened violence before she was able to get out about a half-mile away in the 400 block of Gayley Avenue.

Schecter was arrested March 12 by UCLA police in connection with the Westwood incident. During the investigation, authorities said he was linked to the earlier sexual assault.

``The callous and deeply disturbing actions of the defendant have left two women with unimaginable trauma,'' L.A. District Attorney Nathan Hochman said.

``Our Sex Crimes Division will vigorously prosecute this case and hold the responsible individual accountable,'' he added.

Authorities have urged any additional victims or anyone with
information to contact UCLA police at (310) 825-9371 or L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS.

City News Service contributed to this report.