A 61-year-old man from Cleburne, Texas, Steven Robert Sablan, is facing federal charges after a thirteen-year-old girl was kidnapped at gunpoint in San Antonio and subjected to repeated sexual assault during a multi-state road trip. The ordeal spanned from July 6th, culminating in Sablan’s arrest in Long Beach, California, thanks to the quick thinking of a concerned witness.
According to court documents, Sablan approached the girl while she was walking, brandishing a black handgun and forcing her into his gray Nissan Sentra. He then drove her relentlessly across state lines, telling the victim a fabricated story about a cruise to Australia, but demanding something in return. Over two days, Sablan allegedly sexually assaulted the girl multiple times as they traveled towards California.
The nightmare ended when Sablan stopped in Long Beach to do laundry. While inside, the victim desperately scribbled a “Help me!” note and displayed it in the car window. A passerby spotted the plea, immediately recognized the severity of the situation, and contacted the Long Beach Police Department. Officers arrived to find the girl visibly distressed and Sablan in custody shortly thereafter.
A search of Sablan’s vehicle revealed the handwritten distress signal, a pair of handcuffs, and a black BB gun resembling a handgun. The Cleburne Police Department assisted in the initial stages of the investigation, providing crucial information to federal authorities. The feds have now formally indicted Sablan on one count of kidnapping and one count of transporting a minor with the intent to commit criminal sexual activity.
If convicted on both counts, Sablan could receive a life sentence in federal prison. Federal prosecutors will bear the burden of proving his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. While an indictment signifies serious allegations, Sablan is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The victim is receiving ongoing support and counseling.
Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it moves through the federal court system. This incident underscores the ever-present danger of predatory individuals and the importance of vigilance from the public. Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact the Long Beach Police Department or the FBI. We will provide updates as they become available.
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