Austin physical therapist Manuel Rangel, 50, was sentenced Thursday after admitting guilt in an indecent assault case that grew out of an Austin Police Department investigation. Court records show he received a two-year term of community supervision under a plea agreement.
According to a Travis County document, Rangel pleaded guilty on April 7 and accepted a deal that gives him two years of community supervision. The agreement prevents him from practicing physical therapy while on probation and requires him to forfeit his license, as reported by KXAN.
Investigation and arrests
Austin police opened the case after patients came forward, and officers arrested Rangel in March along with another physical therapist, according to authorities. Detectives urged anyone who believes they might have been a victim to contact the department’s Sex Crimes Unit, FOX 7 Austin reported.
Plea conditions and professional fallout
Court records state that the plea agreement requires Rangel to stay away from witnesses and complete a sex offender assessment, with additional probation conditions laid out by prosecutors. The documents also say he could face further penalties if he violates the terms of his supervision, according to KXAN.
Resources for survivors
Police continue to ask anyone with information to call the APD Sex Crimes Unit at 512-974-5095 or email [email protected]. Victim Services is available at 512-974-5037, FOX 7 Austin reported. Investigators say the case remains open as they look for other potential victims.
Rangel’s guilty plea, along with the loss of his license, highlights how professional consequences can follow allegations of misconduct when a case is resolved through community supervision. Prosecutors say the criminal matter is wrapped up in court for now, while detectives keep the door open for new tips from the public.
