A 13-year-old girl who was kidnapped at gunpoint, sexually assaulted, and taken across the country has been rescued after waving a desperate sign at strangers, according to officials. The horrifying incident took place in San Antonio, Texas, and ended in Long Beach, California, when law enforcement received a call from a witness who saw the victim inside a car with a sign that said, “Help me!”
Steven Robert Sablan, a 61-year-old man from Cleburne, Texas, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of kidnapping and transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. The indictment alleges that on July 6, Sablan approached the victim while she was walking down the street in San Antonio. He allegedly threatened her with a black handgun and forced her to get into his car, saying that he would hurt her if she refused.
Once the victim was in the car, Sablan began driving and asked her how old she was. When she mentioned having a friend in Australia, Sablan reportedly told her that he could take her to visit this friend on a cruise ship, but she had to do something for him first. He then sexually assaulted her multiple times during their two-day journey from Texas to California.
On the morning of July 9, Sablan parked the car in Long Beach and went to a laundromat to wash their clothes. It was during this time that the victim, desperate for help, wrote a sign that said “Help me!” and waited in the car. A witness noticed the sign and immediately called law enforcement. When officers arrived, they saw Sablan standing outside the vehicle and the victim, who mouthed the word “Help,” inside the car. The police conducted a search of the vehicle and found a black BB gun, the sign, and a pair of handcuffs.
Authorities later determined that the victim was a reported runaway missing person from San Antonio. If Sablan is convicted of both charges in the indictment, he could face a maximum sentence of life in federal prison.
This horrifying incident highlights the importance of awareness and vigilance in our communities. The actions of the witness who called law enforcement played a crucial role in saving the victim’s life. It is essential for people to be alert and report any suspicious activity they observe, as it can make a significant difference in preventing and stopping crimes.
Moreover, this case also underscores the need for continued efforts to educate children and teenagers about personal safety and the dangers of interacting with strangers. Parents, schools, and community organizations must work together to teach young individuals about how to recognize potential threats, be aware of their surroundings, and seek help when they feel unsafe.
In addition, this incident highlights the importance of law enforcement collaboration and cooperation across state lines. Thanks to the swift response and communication between San Antonio and Long Beach authorities, the victim was rescued and the suspect apprehended. This case serves as a reminder of the vital role that coordination between different jurisdictions plays in ensuring justice is served and victims are protected.
Finally, it is crucial for society as a whole to support and advocate for survivors of sexual assault. The trauma endured by victims can have long-lasting impacts on their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It is essential for communities to provide resources and services that assist survivors in their healing journey and to work towards creating a culture that condemns sexual violence and holds perpetrators accountable.
In conclusion, the rescue of a kidnapped 13-year-old girl in Southern California serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers that individuals, especially children and teenagers, can face. It is crucial for communities to remain vigilant, educate young individuals about personal safety, and support survivors of sexual assault. Through collaboration and advocacy, we can work towards preventing these horrific incidents and ensuring the safety and well-being of our community members.
