Two Austin Physical Therapists Arrested in Separate Sexual Assault Investigations

AUSTIN, Texas — Austin police have arrested two physical therapists in connection with separate sexual assault cases involving their patients.

According to the Austin Police Department, 37-year-old Paul Lietz and 50-year-old Manuel Rangel were taken into custody after allegations surfaced that each sexually assaulted a patient.

Lietz, who worked as a physical therapist in the Mueller area, has been accused of sexually assaulting a patient during treatment. Rangel, who was employed as a physical therapist in the Medical Parkway area, is facing similar allegations from a patient.

Although the cases are separate, investigators said the allegations in both incidents share similar circumstances.

Because of the sensitive nature of the investigations, police said specific details about the incidents cannot be released at this time.

Both cases remain active and ongoing.

Detectives with the Austin Police Department Sexual Crimes Unit are asking anyone who may have been a victim of either Paul Lietz or Manuel Rangel to come forward.

Anyone with information can contact the APD Sexual Crimes Unit at 512-974-5095 or email Sex.Crimes@austintexas.gov.

Officials emphasized that contacting police is entirely voluntary, and support services are available through the APD Victim Services Unit, which can be reached at 512-974-5037.