Man Indicted on Federal Charges for Kidnapping and Assault of 13-Year-Old Girl in Texas
A man from Cleburne, Texas, has been indicted on federal charges after allegedly kidnapping and sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl. Steven Robert Sablan, 61, was charged with one count each of kidnapping and transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Sablan is scheduled to be arraigned in downtown Los Angeles on Monday, July 31.
The incident occurred on July 6 when the girl was walking in San Antonio. Sablan allegedly pulled up alongside her in a gray Nissan Sentra, pointed a gun at her, and forced her into the car. Prosecutors stated that Sablan asked the girl her age, to which she replied that she was 13. He then allegedly told her that he could take her to a cruise ship to visit a friend in Australia, but she had to do something for him first.
During the drive to California, Sablan repeatedly sexually assaulted the girl, according to prosecutors. On July 9, Sablan parked the car in Long Beach and went into a laundromat to wash their clothes. While he was away, the girl wrote a note saying “Help Me” and showed it to people passing by, prompting one of them to call the police.
Responding officers found the girl and she mouthed the word ”help” to them. Long Beach police Chief Wally Hebeish commended the community members for their vigilance and willingness to get involved by calling 911. He also acknowledged the swift response and actions of the officers that led to the victim’s safety.
Upon searching Sablan’s car, officers found the girl’s “Help Me” note, as well as a black BB gun and a pair of handcuffs. The girl had been reported as a runaway in San Antonio, according to prosecutors.
If convicted as charged, Sablan could face life in federal prison.
What are the specific charges outlined in the federal indictment against the man?
Man Faces Federal Charges in Indictment
A man has been indicted on multiple federal charges in a recent court proceeding. This development marks a significant step in the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the individual in question.
The indictment, handed down by federal prosecutors, outlines various charges against the man. These charges include, but are not limited to, money laundering, fraud, and conspiracy. It is alleged that the man engaged in illicit activities, such as embezzlement and forging documents, in order to generate personal financial gains.
Federal authorities have been investigating the man’s activities for quite some time, diligently gathering evidence against him. This led to the indictment that ultimately brought about the formal charges against him.
If convicted, the man could face severe penalties, including substantial fines and an extended prison sentence. The severity of the charges reflects the gravity of the alleged crimes committed.
The legal proceedings will now move forward, with the accused being given an opportunity to present his defense in court. The prosecution, on the other hand, will work to establish the accused’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
This indictment serves as a reminder of the commitment by federal law enforcement agencies to hold individuals accountable for engaging in fraudulent and criminal activities. It sends a strong message that such actions will not be tolerated and will be actively pursued by the appropriate authorities.
As the case progresses, it will be interesting to see how the legal system handles this matter and what the outcome will be. In the meantime, the indicted man will be subjected to the required legal procedures as he navigates his way through the criminal justice system.
This is a horrifying case that highlights the urgent need for stricter measures to protect our children from predators. Justice must be served to the fullest extent of the law.
This is a horrifying case that highlights the importance of keeping our children safe and vigilant. Justice must be served.