HOUSTON, TX – In a dramatic turn of events over the weekend, a family in Harris County apprehended a man accused of sexually assaulting their teenage relative. The family, utilizing a cell phone tracking app, located the young woman in distress and intervened just in time to prevent further harm.
The incident began at a local gas station where the suspect, identified as 41-year-old Freddie Arriaga, allegedly first encountered the teenager. Prosecutors say Arriaga approached the teen with an inappropriate proposition as she entered the store. When she left, he reportedly followed her, eventually forcing her into a nearby wooded area where the assault occurred.
Concerned for her safety, the family used a location-sharing feature on the teen’s phone to trace her whereabouts. Upon reaching the area indicated on the app, they heard her cries for help and rushed to her aid. The family managed to subdue Arriaga, holding him until law enforcement arrived on the scene.
“This case underscores the importance of families having the ability to track their loved ones, especially children, during late hours,” a prosecutor commented. “Such tools can be crucial in ensuring safety and enabling timely intervention in dangerous situations.”
Court documents reveal that Arriaga, a resident of Spring, is a Mexican national with three young children. This incident marks his first encounter with the law, as he has no prior arrest record. He currently faces a bond set at $100,000.
The swift actions of the family have been praised, highlighting the potential life-saving impact of technology when combined with vigilance and quick thinking. As the investigation continues, the community remains on edge, grappling with the unsettling nature of the crime.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by individuals, particularly young women, and the critical role family and technology can play in ensuring their safety.