Two now in custody for international kidnapping

McALLEN, Texas - A 30-year-old Lumberton resident is set for a detention hearing following his arrest for kidnapping two minor children and taking them to Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Authorities have taken Luis Angel Rodriguez into custody. He made his initial appearance and is set for a detention hearing Sept. 19 at 1 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Scott Hacker.

Carolina Rodriguez is also charged and remains in custody. Law enforcement arrested her in June.

The indictment, returned in August, alleges that on or about Sept. 1, 2024, Carolina and Luis Angel Rodriguez kidnapped two children, both under the age of 16, and took them to Mexico.

Authorities also located the children and have reunited them with their guardians.

If convicted, Luis and Carolina Rodriguez face up to three years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Legat Mexico City, Monterrey Sub-office and San Juan Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexa D. Parcell is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.