ZAPATA, TX — Investigators with the Zapata County Sheriff’s Office in South Texas rescued two Guatemalan nationals being held for ransom, resulting in the arrest of a suspect operating what is known as a "stash house."
The rescue occurred Wednesday, June 18, as part of Operation Border Star, a law enforcement initiative targeting border-related crimes. According to officials, the two individuals had entered the United States unlawfully and were being held against their will at a residence in Zapata, Texas. Their captors were reportedly demanding ransom payments for their release.
Nadia Valadez-Valadez has been arrested and charged with the Operation of a Stash House, a Third-Degree Felony under Texas Penal Code Section 20.07(b)
(Credit: Zapata County Sheriff's Office)
A stash house is a location, often a building or house, used to store illegal items or people secretly.
The victims managed to escape and sought help from a nearby residence. Authorities were alerted and launched an investigation that led to the identification and arrest of Nadia Valadez-Valadez, a Mexican national who was found to be in the U.S. illegally. She admitted to operating the stash house after waiving her Miranda rights during questioning, officials said.
Valadez-Valadez has been charged with operation of a stash house, a third-degree felony under Texas Penal Code Section 20.07(b). The two rescued individuals were turned over to U.S. Border Patrol custody.
"This operation highlights our unwavering commitment to protecting the vulnerable and ensuring that those who exploit others face justice," Zapata County Sheriff Ramon E. Montes said. "We are grateful for the teamwork displayed by our patrol division and investigative team, which led to the successful rescue of these individuals. The ZCSO will continue to work tirelessly to combat human trafficking and illegal activities within our community."
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Zapata County Sheriff’s Office at 956-765-9960.
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