A former University of Southern California medical student faces spending the rest of his life behind bars after being convicted of multiple sexual assault charges against several women.
Sizhe Weng, 31, was found guilty on Wednesday of eight felony counts, including three of rape by use of drugs and two of sexual penetration by a foreign object. The convictions stem from attacks that occurred between 2021 and 2023 at his apartment near the USC campus.
A Chilling Pattern Emerges
Prosecutors presented evidence showing Weng had developed a disturbing pattern of inviting women to his home before administering intoxicating substances without their knowledge. Once the victims were incapacitated, he would sexually assault them.
Deputy District Attorney Yasmin Fardghassemi told the court that Weng "preyed upon vulnerable women" and used his status as a medical student to gain their trust. "He used his knowledge of substances to render his victims helpless," she stated during the trial.
The Investigation Unfolds
The case came to light in March 2023 when one victim reported her assault to the Los Angeles Police Department. As investigators dug deeper, they discovered multiple other women had similar experiences with Weng.
Detectives found incriminating evidence including:
- Text messages arranging meetings with victims
- Substances used to incapacitate women
- Digital evidence documenting the assaults
Fall from Grace
Weng had been studying at the Keck School of Medicine at USC, one of America's most prestigious medical programs. His arrest and subsequent conviction represent a dramatic fall from his once-promising future in healthcare.
The university confirmed that Weng is no longer enrolled as a student and has been barred from campus facilities since his arrest.
Sentencing and Aftermath
Weng now awaits sentencing scheduled for August 28, where he faces multiple life sentences in state prison. The judge has ordered him to remain in custody without bail due to the severity of the crimes and concerns he might flee.
Prosecutors praised the bravery of the victims who came forward, noting that their testimony was crucial in securing convictions that will prevent Weng from harming other women.
