HOUSTON, TX – A Houston resident is under arrest after reportedly committing a series of violent crimes against a group of fitness enthusiasts in a local park. The accused, Josue Carranza, 42, is said to have robbed the group at gunpoint before abducting and assaulting a female member of the group.
Harris County records indicate Carranza is facing multiple charges. These include two counts each of aggravated assault and aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon, and one count each of aggravated kidnapping and aggravated sexual assault.
The incident took place in March in Clark Park, where Carranza allegedly approached the group after they had finished their workout. Carranza, who lived within walking distance of the park with his wife and mother-in-law, is said to have robbed the trio at gunpoint.
According to court documents, Carranza then forced one of the victims into a car, compelled her to withdraw money from an ATM, and then drove her to a store. The assault reportedly took place at MacGregor Park, where Carranza forced the victim to drive.
Carranza’s criminal record extends back to 2001, with charges ranging from drug possession and criminal mischief to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, theft, burglary, evading arrest, and assault causing bodily injury.
The victim’s friends played a crucial role in Carranza’s arrest. They were able to track a stolen phone, which led law enforcement officials to Carranza.
During a court hearing, a Harris County judge noted the severity of the crimes and set a bond of $125,000 for each of the six counts Carranza is charged with.