The man accused of kidnapping and holding a woman captive for 10 years in California was charged today.
The Orange County District Attorney's Office filed several charges against 42-year-old Isidro Garcia for allegedly kidnapping his girlfriend's 15-year-old daughter in 2004. Those charges include one felony count of forcible rape, three felony counts of lewd acts on a minor, and one felony count of kidnapping to commit a sexual offense.
Police say Garcia drugged and kidnapped the unnamed teen in August 2004 before taking her to a home in Compton. For the next 10 years, police say she endured horrible treatment.
"Police say he psychologically, physically and sexually assaulted her." (Via KTTV)
"On two occasions she tried to escape. He caught her; he beat her for her efforts." (Via KNBC)
Throughout the years, police say Garcia threatened to deport the woman's family if she tried to escape. But they believe something triggered her to try again.
"Santa Ana police say a decade later the victim found her sister on Facebook and gained the courage to come forward for help." (Via KNBC)
Neighbors say they were surprised to find out about the couple's history. Many said Garcia and his now 25-year-old wife seemed happy.
"We never heard nothing about she getting hit or nothing."
"They were even trying to have another baby." (Via KTTV)
The victim, who is now reunited with her family, spoke exclusively with KABC about her relief and her experiences over the past decade.
"I'm so happy and God blessed to be back with my family. ... I can do nothing. I just did what he wants I did. I don't have life these 10 years."
If Garcia is convicted on all counts, he faces a maximum sentence of 19 years to life in state prison. His bond is set at $1 million.
