A 13-year-old girl from Texas has been rescued in Southern California after being kidnapped and sexually assaulted by a man who has now pleaded guilty to the charges. The incident came to light when a passerby in Long Beach noticed the girl holding up a sign that read, “Help Me!” in a parked car and immediately alerted the authorities.
The perpetrator, identified as 62-year-old Steven Robert Sablan from Cleburne, Texas, admitted to sexually assaulting the victim during the drive from Texas to California. Sablan has been in federal custody since July 2023 and recently entered a guilty plea for one count of kidnapping. His attorney, Deputy Federal Public Defender Nadine Hettle, declined to comment on the case.
According to an affidavit supporting the criminal complaint, the horrifying ordeal began on July 6 when Sablan approached the young girl in San Antonio. He allegedly brandished a black handgun and threatened her, saying, “If you don’t get in the car with me, I am going to hurt you.” Fearing for her safety, the girl complied, and Sablan proceeded to drive her across state lines.
The rescue took place on July 9 after a concerned individual noticed the distressed girl holding up her desperate plea for help. They promptly dialed 911, leading to her liberation and Sablan’s subsequent arrest. The brave actions of this passerby undoubtedly played a crucial role in saving the young girl from further harm.
Following his guilty plea, Sablan is now awaiting sentencing, scheduled for October 25. He will face a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in federal prison, with the possibility of a life sentence. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance within our communities and the need to report any suspicious activities or signs of distress.
The harrowing experience endured by the young victim highlights the vulnerability of children and the necessity for continuous efforts to protect them from harm. Organizations and communities must continue to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of our youth, providing education on personal safety, and fostering an environment where victims feel empowered to seek help.
As we await the sentencing hearing, our thoughts remain with the brave young girl who has endured unimaginable trauma. It is our hope that she will find healing and support as she begins her journey towards recovery. Let this case serve as a reminder that we must remain vigilant and united in the fight against crimes targeting our most vulnerable members of society.
