Two Venezuelan men living in the US illegally have been charged with capital murder in the death of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray in Houston. Johan Jose Martinez-Rangel, 22, and Franklin Jose Peña Ramos, 26, are the suspects in this tragic case.
State District Judge Josh Hill set a $10 million bond for each of the accused during a recent court hearing. Prosecutors presented evidence suggesting that Martinez-Rangel was attempting to flee the country after authorities began searching for him following Jocelyn's death. Mario Madrid, Martinez-Rangel's court-appointed attorney, has not yet provided a statement.
Jocelyn's body was discovered on June 17 in a shallow creek after she had reportedly left her home the previous night. The medical examiner determined that she had been strangled to death. Prosecutors allege that the men removed her pants, bound her, and then killed her before disposing of her body in a bayou. Jocelyn had gone missing while walking to a nearby convenience store.
Both Martinez-Rangel and Peña are Venezuelan nationals who entered the US illegally in March. They were initially arrested by the US Border Patrol and later released with court appearance orders. However, they are now under immigration holds by federal authorities, ensuring they remain in custody even if they manage to post bond.
Jocelyn's funeral is scheduled to take place on Thursday in Houston, as the community mourns the loss of the young girl in this heartbreaking incident.
