Austin police have arrested two physical therapists accused of sexually assaulting patients in separate incidents, according to the Austin Police Department.
Investigators say Paul Lietz, who worked as a physical therapist in the Mueller area, was arrested after a patient accused him of sexual assault during treatment.
In a separate case, Manuel Rangel, a physical therapist who worked in the Medical Parkway area, was also arrested after a patient reported being sexually assaulted.
Police say the two cases are unrelated, but investigators noted similarities between the allegations in both incidents.
Due to the sensitive nature of the cases, police have not released additional details. Both investigations remain active.
Detectives are asking anyone who may have been a victim of either man to contact the Austin Police Department’s Sexual Crimes Unit at 512-974-5095 or by email at Sex.Crimes@austintexas.gov.
APD officials say the department’s Victim Services Unit is available to provide support and assistance to anyone affected, regardless of whether they choose to participate in the investigation.
