13-Year-Old Girl Rescued in California After Holding Up “Help Me!” Sign in Kidnapping Case
A 13-year-old girl who had been kidnapped in Texas and sexually assaulted was rescued in California when witnesses spotted her holding up a sign that said “Help Me!” from inside a parked car, authorities said this week.
The incident occurred on July 9 in Long Beach, California, when “good Samaritans” noticed the girl holding up the sign while inside a silver Nissan Sentra, according to the Long Beach Police Department. The witnesses immediately called 911, prompting a swift response from the police.
Upon arrival, officers saw the suspect, 61-year-old Steven Robert Sablan of Cleburne, Texas, standing outside the vehicle. Inside the car, they saw the victim, who mouthed the word “Help,” according to court documents. Sablan was subsequently arrested and charged with kidnapping and transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.
The girl’s ordeal began on July 6 in San Antonio, Texas, when Sablan approached her while driving the Nissan Sentra. He allegedly raised a handgun and threatened to harm her if she didn’t get into the car with him. Fearing for her life, the girl complied. Sablan then sexually assaulted her repeatedly during the two-day journey from Texas to California.
Authorities revealed that Sablan had multiple prior convictions and was already wanted for burglary in Fort Worth, Texas, at the time of his arrest. He was considered “armed and dangerous.” In addition to the sign, a BB gun, a knife, and a pair of handcuffs were found in his possession.
The victim, who had been reported as a runaway missing person from San Antonio, had left home with the intention of visiting a friend in Australia. Sablan had falsely promised to help her reach her destination after forcing her into his car.
If convicted, Sablan faces life in prison, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. An attorney for Sablan has not yet responded to requests for comment.
This harrowing incident serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity to authorities. The quick actions of the “good Samaritans” who noticed the girl’s distress signal ultimately led to her rescue and the arrest of her kidnapper.
How did the witnesses play a vital role in the rescue of the 13-year-old girl?
Inside a parked car. The witnesses immediately called the police, who arrived at the scene and rescued the girl.
According to authorities, the 13-year-old girl had been kidnapped from her home in Texas a few days prior to the incident. She was then taken to California, where she was sexually assaulted by the suspect. The suspect, identified as a 40-year-old man, had reportedly lured the girl through social media.
The Long Beach Police Department worked swiftly to locate and apprehend the suspect. They were able to track down the parked car where the girl was being held and arrested the suspect without any incident. The girl was then taken to a local hospital for medical examination and evaluation.
Law enforcement agencies in both Texas and California collaborated in this successful rescue operation. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities looking into the suspect’s background and identifying any potential connections to other crimes.
This incident highlights the crucial role that vigilant citizens play in keeping our communities safe. The quick thinking of the witnesses who noticed the girl’s distress signal and promptly reported it to the police undoubtedly saved her from further harm.
Authorities are reminding parents and guardians to educate their children about the dangers of interacting with strangers online and to remain vigilant in monitoring their online activities. It is crucial to establish open lines of communication with children so that they feel comfortable reporting any suspicious encounters.
Cases like these serve as a sobering reminder of the risks that young people face in the digital age. It is essential for law enforcement agencies, schools, and families to work together in educating children about online safety and taking appropriate measures to protect them from potential harm.
This heartwrenching incident is a powerful reminder to always stay vigilant and support one another. Kudos to the person who noticed the distress signal and played a vital role in saving this young child’s life. Every second counts when it comes to preventing such horrific crimes.
“Thankful that this brave 13-year-old was able to catch someone’s attention and be rescued. It’s a reminder to always pay attention and lend a helping hand to those in need.”