McALLEN, Texas ‐ Martin Margarito-Casimiro, 28, of Camargo, Tamaulipas, Mexico, has pleaded guilty to kidnapping, announced U.S. Attorney Kenneth Magidson.
On Jan. 22, 2015, law enforcement responded to a man’s cry for help as he ran down the street with rope still tied around his arms and legs. That victim led law enforcement to the McAllen residence where he had been held. There, law enforcement found another victim with his arms and legs bound. At that time, law enforcement discovered Margarito-Casimiro and others who were attempting to flee.
During the guilty plea today, Margarito-Casimiro admitted he held at least one victim at gunpoint for ransom and directed co-conspirators to tie the victim’s hands and feet. The victim was told he needed to pay in order to be released.
Based on today’s conviction, Margarito-Casimiro could face up to life in prison. He is set for sentencing Aug. 20, 2015, before U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez. He will remain in custody pending that hearing.
The investigation leading to the charges was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and McAllen Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Rees and Leo J. Leo are prosecuting the case.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
