Career Center head pleads not guilty

Russell Bruch, former director of the Career Center, pled not guilty to four felony charges involving a minor at his arraignment on December 14.

Bruch was arrested by Davis Police November 13, 1998, and charged with attempted statutory rape, attempted oral copulation, burglary and sending harmful matter with the intent to seduce a minor.

Bruch pled not guilty in Yolo County Superior Court to all charges and is now awaiting his next court date to be held February 25.

A gag order was imposed by the judge at the arraignment, which forbids the details of the case from being discussed by anyone involved.

Bruch, 58, was investigated by Davis police when a state-mandated reporter contacted them about e-mail conversations Bruch was having with a 16-year-old girl.

According to police, the e-mail conversations began when the girl sent a message to Bruch inquiring about a drama production. Bruch took the conversations further and ended up making sexual advances toward the girl.

The police took over the girl's role in the conversations and set up the arrest when Bruch suggested that he and the girl meet.

After his arrest, Bruch was placed on administrative leave.

Shirley Uplinger, vice president of Student Affairs, has taken over his directorial responsibilities at the Career Center.

“There was an agreement with myself and the staff [of the Career Center] that I would take over responsibilities,” Uplinger said.

“They already know me, which makes it easier than if someone outside came in.”