By Luis De Jesus
Sep 20, 2024, 11:55 PM EDT
Venezuelans Franklin Peña and Johan Martínez Rangel could be sentenced to death for the murder of teenager Jocelyn Nungaray, who was just 12 years old. The future of the foreigners is uncertain after a recent decision by the Grand Jury of Harris County, Texas.
The girl’s body was found on June 17 in a creek in the Greenspoint area. According to court documents, the girl was kidnapped, raped and suffocated by the defendants.
Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg said the inclusion of sexual assault charges allows prosecutors to seek the death penalty.
Both suspects were arrested a few days after the crime and currently remain in jail on $10 million bail each.
Peña’s next court appearance is scheduled for October 30, while Martínez-Rangel is scheduled to appear on November 11, Telemundo reports.
What is known about the murder of Jocelyn Nungaray?
Investigations revealed that Jocelyn was last seen on June 16, when she left her home to go to a nearby store. Security cameras captured the suspects following the minor and forcing her into a vehicle.
Police used these images to identify and locate Franklin Peña and Johan Martínez Rangel.
During interrogations, both defendants confessed to their involvement in the crime, providing details that matched forensic evidence found at the crime scene.
In addition, the Venezuelans were found to have criminal records in their country, which has intensified the debate over immigration policy in the United States.
Jocelyn’s family is demanding justice and is supported by numerous community organizations and victims’ rights advocates.
Continue reading:
• Jocelyn Nungaray: Why were her killers not eligible for the death penalty?
• Hispanics who killed a Texas girl could face the death penalty because they raped her
• 6 keys to understanding the case of the murder of Jocelyn Nungaray at the hands of 2 migrants in Texas