Michael Douglas Brambles, a former vice detective from Los Angeles, was arrested following his parole in 2020. Originally sentenced to 102 years for multiple rapes, he faces new charges at age 77.

Recent Allegations

According to the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office, Brambles is accused of kidnapping to commit robbery and using a firearm during a robbery and sexual assault. He allegedly entered Arabella’s Boutique in Thousand Oaks, California, and attacked a woman identified as SW. After forcing her into a backroom, he tied her hands and sexually assaulted her before robbing the store.

Legal Complications

The statute of limitations prevents charging Brambles for the sexual assault allegations. Despite being identified as a suspect shortly after the crime, he was already facing prosecution for other offenses. In total, Brambles had been convicted of various crimes, including 18 armed robberies.

Parole and New Developments

Brambles gained parole eligibility in 2020 under a California law allowing elderly inmates to apply. At this hearing, he denied new allegations beyond his previous convictions. Investigators connected to the federal Sexual Assault Kit Initiative discovered his parole status while re-examining SW’s case. He was arrested and held on $2 million bail.

Victim’s Response

SW expressed shock upon learning Brambles was free, believing justice had not been served. She expressed gratitude for the chance to pursue justice for herself and other victims now.

Potential Sentencing

Brambles could face a maximum sentence of 12 years to life if convicted. District Attorney Erik Nasarenko praised SW’s courage in confronting her attacker again, emphasizing their commitment to seeking justice for the accusations from over three decades ago.