A 13-year-old girl who was kidnapped in the US managed to be rescued from her abductor thanks to her quick thinking. A Good Samaritan spotted her "help me sign" inside a car in southern California, which led to her rescue.
The girl was kidnapped at gunpoint near a bus stop in San Antonio, Texas, on July 6. The perpetrator, identified as 61-year-old Steven Robert Sablan, forced the girl into his vehicle, threatening her with harm if she didn't comply.
As per the police account, Sablan approached the 13-year-old girl with the promise of taking her on a cruise ship. However, the girl became wary of his intentions and was not swayed by his sweet talk. In response, Sablan resorted to threats, showing his gun to force her into his car.
Kidnapped, Sexually Harassed Minor Rescued With 'Help Me' Sign
During the three days that followed, Sablan allegedly drove the girl for over 19 hours, covering a considerable distance from Texas to California. Tragically, the girl reportedly experienced numerous instances of sexual assault while travelling throughout this ordeal.
Unaware of the dire situation her daughter was facing, the girl's mother reported her missing to the San Antonio authorities on July 7. It was thanks to the young girl's quick thinking, displaying a "help me sign" inside the car, that an individual in southern California noticed and alerted the authorities. This critical intervention led to the girl's rescue from her abductor and brought an end to her harrowing experience.
Long Beach Police Chief Wally Hebeish expressed his gratitude to the community for their assistance in aiding the girl. He emphasised the crucial role that community members play in ensuring the safety of individuals. Additionally, Chief Hebeish acknowledged the commendable efforts of the police officers who responded swiftly and effectively, leading to the safe rescue of the victim.
Following the incident, law enforcement arrested the perpetrator and discovered a black BB gun that bore a resemblance to a semi-automatic pistol. Moreover, they found a pair of handcuffs inside the vehicle used in the abduction. Subsequently, Sablan faced serious charges and was sent to prison in Long Beach City after being booked for kidnapping, lewd and lascivious acts with a child, and being a fugitive from justice. His bail was set at $100,000, and on July 11, he was released to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, as indicated on the jail's website.
As for the young girl, she was entrusted to the care of the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services.
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