Man wanting to be smuggled into U.S. instead held captive
Stacia Glenn, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 09/23/2008 08:32:57 PM PDT


REDLANDS - The man was supposed to be smuggled into the country to find the American dream.
Instead, he was held captive in the backseat of a car for nearly 24 hours while his family was ordered to pay thousands of dollars for his safe release, authorities said.

It was a Big Bear City pastor who called in the police on Sunday night, hoping Redlands officers could rescue the 53-year-old Mexican man.

The victim's cousin, who sought guidance from her Big Bear City pastor, had seen him arrive in Redlands but his captors refused to let him go.

The "coyote" - someone who smuggles illegal immigrants across the border for a fee - arranged to meet with the victim's family in the Stater Bros. parking lot at Colton Avenue and Orange Street.

But police said she got spooked and changed the meeting spot. Officers searched the area for more than two hours before spotting the victim in the back of a silver 2002 Toyota car parked at the El Pollo Loco at Tennessee Street and Colton Avenue.

The victim was reunited with his family. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials were notified.

Maria Garcia, a 31-year-old Tijuana woman who reportedly was also in the country illegally, was arrested on suspicion of extortion, conspiracy and false imprisonment.

She was booked into West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga. ICE has placed a hold on her, authorities said.

A second woman who is
believed to have arranged the exchange is still outstanding, police said.
Anyone with information is asked to call Redlands police at (909) 798-7681.



http://www.sbsun.com/sanbernardino/ci_10541820