SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A Utah man has been arrested after allegedly holding his pregnant girlfriend and her family hostage for six months under the false claim that “cartel” members were pursuing them. Dominic Garcia, 23, was arrested Saturday and faces 28 charges, including seven counts of kidnapping and seven counts of assault, many of which are felonies.
The Start of the Hostage Situation
Garcia reportedly moved in with his girlfriend’s family in December. Shortly after moving in, he began spinning a tale about his family having ties to a dangerous cartel. Garcia claimed that the family had to comply with his demands to avoid the wrath of the cartel. Over time, he created an atmosphere of fear and control, frequently telling the family that any defiance could result in their deaths.
The Family’s Escape
The situation came to light when one of the alleged captives called the police, saying they had been held against their will and “couldn’t take it any longer.” When officers arrived at the home, they found the family holding Garcia at gunpoint and immediately took him into custody.
Ongoing Manipulation and Control
According to police, Garcia allegedly forced his victims out of the house for a month, telling them his family had made a bad deal with the cartel and that they needed to flee for safety. He continued his control by monitoring their communications, confronting them over messages, and limiting their movements. Additionally, Garcia is accused of running a “boot camp”-like operation where family members were forced to work out five times a day, take ice baths, and submerge their faces in water to the point of suffocation.
Garcia’s Arrest and Ongoing Investigation
Garcia has been held without bail as the investigation continues. Police say Garcia admitted that he had maintained the false narrative for months because he feared his family would no longer like him if he told the truth. He now faces serious charges as the case moves forward.
A Community in Shock
The community is reeling from the horrifying details of the case, as Garcia’s manipulative behavior and the prolonged suffering of the victims have shocked those close to the family. Authorities have assured that Garcia will face the full extent of the law for his actions.
Source Attribution
- The Associated Press, KSTU (Salt Lake City-based FOX affiliate)
