Man Arrested for Attempted Rape Near UC Berkeley

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A 34-year-old man was arrested on Saturday afternoon after allegedly attempting to rape a woman in the communal laundry room of an apartment building near the UC Berkeley campus. Police say the suspect, identified as Ahmad Lutfi, had gone to his apartment by the time officers arrived, where they found him with a freshly shaved face and changed clothes. Nearby communal restrooms also contained a shaver and hair clippings.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about public safety and sexual violence, especially in areas near college campuses where young adults may be vulnerable. It also raises questions about how apartment building security and community awareness can be improved to prevent such attacks.

The details

According to police, the woman was in the communal laundry room of an apartment building in the 2300 block of Le Conte Avenue around 1 p.m. when the suspect sexually assaulted her. By the time officers responded, the suspect had gone to his apartment, where they located him and took him into custody on suspicion of attempted rape, false imprisonment, and sexual battery.

• The incident occurred around 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 17, 2026.
• Police responded to the apartment building and located the suspect outside his apartment.

What’s next

The suspect is expected to appear in court on Tuesday to determine if he will be released on bail pending further legal proceedings.