Los Angeles: On December 7, 2004, Los Angeles Police Department’s Operations-West Bureau Sexual Assault Detail arrested Alan Paul Wurtzel, age 60, a resident of Pacific Palisades. Wurtzel had been the subject of several criminal investigations alleging sexual assault, beginning in 2001 and continuing to 2004.

Wurtzel was alleged to have committed his crimes at his Coperto Drive residence. He reportedly lured lone-female victims to the location by advertising a room in the house in return for a low monthly rent and light housekeeping work. Wurtzel originally placed his ads in The Weekly Reader before moving the offer to the Internet Craigslist. Wurtzel is alleged to have assaulted the victims sexually when they appeared at his residence to view the room.

Wurtzel was arrested for Section 288a of the Penal Code, unlawful oral copulation. He posted bail and was released on the same day.

The Operations-West Bureau Sexual Assault Detail is asking for the public’s assistance on any additional information on Wurtzel. Anyone who may have been victimized by Wurtzel and has not reported the crime is urged to contact Detectives Geoff Tavares or Detective III Kurt Wachter at 213-473-0447, between 6:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

This news release was prepared by the Los Angeles Police Department’s Media Relation Section, for additional information please call 213-485-3586.