On April 24, 2025, a federal grand jury in San Juan, Puerto Rico, returned a two-count indictment charging five individuals with conspiracy to kidnap and with the attempted kidnapping of a man in Mayagüez on July 12, 2024. The announcement was made by W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico, along with Devin J. Kowalski, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s San Juan Field Office.
The indictment outlines the alleged conspiracy, which began by May 21, 2024, and involved Edilberto Aponte-Sánchez, Anthony Esquilín-Guzmán, Ramdy Kaleb Ocasio-Pagán, Jocner Martínez-Correa, and Dylan Camacho-Álvarez. These individuals are accused of planning to kidnap and hold for ransom a victim identified only as H.R.G. The methods used in their alleged scheme included the use of motor vehicles, messaging applications, and cellular telephones, all in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1201(c). They are also charged with the attempted kidnapping incident that occurred on July 12, 2024.
During the July incident, the defendants allegedly tried to force the victim into a van in a parking lot in Mayagüez. The victim resisted, and the defendants eventually fled the scene.
United States Attorney Muldrow highlighted the collaborative efforts involved in the investigation: “I commend the tireless efforts of the FBI, Puerto Rico Police Bureau, and prosecutors in the investigation of this case. This case reinforces the importance of being aware of your surroundings at all times.”
Devin J. Kowalski emphasized the stance against community violence: “Violence in our communities will never be tolerated. The FBI and our partners will relentlessly investigate those who prey on innocent people — wherever they hide, however long it takes.”
If found guilty, the accused could face a life sentence for conspiracy to commit kidnapping, and up to twenty years for the attempted kidnapping charge. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge, considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other relevant factors.
The FBI leads the ongoing investigation, supported by the Puerto Rico Police Bureau. Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) and Deputy Chief of the Violent Crimes Unit Jeanette Collazo and AUSA Corinne Cordero Romo are prosecuting the case.
It is important to note that an indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
