A federal grand jury has indicted Rosa Ventura, 34, and Claudia Gonzales, 38, both from Fresno, on charges of conspiracy to kidnap, kidnapping, and kidnapping involving a child. Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced the indictment.
Court documents reveal that on May 8, 2024, following a domestic violence incident reported by a woman against her boyfriend leading to his arrest, Ventura allegedly retaliated by abducting the woman's 5-month-old daughter. Ventura then drove the mother and her two children to an undisclosed field outside Fresno.
At this location, Gonzales emerged from hiding in the trunk of the car. Together with Ventura, they transported the mother and child to Tijuana, Mexico. The victims were left at an unknown bus station in an attempt to prevent the mother from testifying in a state domestic violence case where she was involved as a victim. During their journey, attempts by the mother and child to escape were thwarted when Ventura and Gonzales physically forced them back into the vehicle.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations alongside the Fresno Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Robert Veneman-Hughes and Cody S. Chapple are handling prosecution duties.
Ventura and Gonzales remain in custody awaiting trial. Their next court appearance is scheduled for February 5, 2025, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Erica P. Grosjean for their initial hearing on these charges.
If found guilty, both defendants could face a minimum sentence of 20 years up to life imprisonment along with a $250,000 fine. Sentencing will be determined by the court based on statutory factors and Federal Sentencing Guidelines which consider various elements. It is important to note that these charges are allegations; Ventura and Gonzales are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.