A Chinese national, Sizhe ‘Steven’ Weng, is facing life imprisonment for allegedly drugging and sexually assaulting multiple women in Los Angeles over a three-year span. Weng, a 30-year-old PhD candidate at the University of Southern California (USC), is accused of using incapacitating drugs to commit a series of crimes that spanned 2021 to 2024. Prosecutors have charged him with eight felony counts, including forcible rape, rape with drug use, and sexual penetration with anesthesia. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office noted that evidence found at Weng’s residence corroborates the allegations, and the case has drawn international attention due to its link to similar crimes in Germany. Weng was arrested in August 2024 and faces potential life imprisonment if convicted. He will appear in court for a preliminary hearing scheduled for January 14, 2026, and is currently held without bail. The case highlights the ongoing efforts by authorities to address sexual violence and the legal implications for international crimes.
According to authorities, Weng was first identified as a suspect in January 2025 when German police reported that they believed he could be linked to a string of similar assaults in their country. German authorities provided information that helped the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) investigate Weng’s potential involvement in the sexual assaults. LAPD Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton stated that Weng was considered an ‘opportunist’ who targeted individuals by drugging them before committing sexual assaults. The investigation revealed that the crimes began at least as early as 2021 and continued into 2025, indicating a prolonged period of abuse. Evidence collected at Weng’s residence has been critical in substantiating the charges against him.
Weng’s legal representatives have yet to comment on the charges, but court records indicate that he pleaded not guilty during his Sept. 2 arraignment. The case has also raised concerns regarding campus safety, as the University of Southern California has stated it is cooperating fully with law enforcement and that Weng has been barred from campus during the investigation. The university’s statement emphasizes its commitment to the safety of its students and the integrity of its academic environment. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has advised any potential victims to come forward with information that may aid the investigation.
Legal experts suggest that if convicted, Weng could face a prison sentence of up to 25 to life years, with an additional 56 years added to his sentence due to the severity of the charges. He would also be required to register as a sex offender for life, reflecting the seriousness of the offenses. The case has sparked public debate regarding the legal and ethical implications of international crimes and the role of universities in ensuring a safe environment for students. The Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division is leading the investigation, which has been dubbed a priority due to the nature of the crimes and their potential impact on the community.
Media outlets like Fox News have covered the case extensively, including an earlier report on a similar case involving an illegal immigrant linked to 17 rapes and multiple deportations. This case has drawn parallels to the previous one, suggesting a pattern of sexual assault that may involve international perpetrators. The Los Angeles Times has also published coverage on the case, highlighting the connection between the USC student and the crimes in Germany. The case has further emphasized the need for cross-border cooperation in investigating and prosecuting sexual crimes, especially those that may involve individuals with extensive international travel histories.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Weng or his alleged crimes to come forward. The District Attorney’s Office has provided a contact number for individuals to report potential leads. The case remains a focal point for discussions on campus security, international law enforcement collaboration, and the long-term consequences of sexual violence on victims and their communities. The University of Southern California’s response to the situation underscores the importance of institutional accountability and swift action in addressing such serious offenses.