Man Holds Children for Ransom Money To Fix Car

Published on July 01, 2009 at 05:35PM

(SALT LAKE CITY)—Salt Lake City police say Juan Lopez took three children against their will, used threats and demanded money which landed him in jail on first-degree felony charges. The 21-year old Lopez had accused three children, two 11-year olds and a 12-year old, of spray painting his car. Police say Lopez and a 16-year old relative took the children by force, put them in his car, and drove them to a local body shop. He then called one of the boy’s relatives and demanded $1000 for repairs before the children would be released. One of the victims eventually broke away and escaped while Lopez’ aunt eventually contacted him and convinced him to return home with the other two boys. Police say Lopez dropped off the 16-year old boy after his return. When Lopez returned home, he was arrested and the two children were recovered.