Authorities are investigating a disturbing incident at the Emerald Pointe Apartment complex in Pasadena, Texas, where a woman was kidnapped, sexually assaulted, and allegedly targeted by her neighbor. The incident has raised concerns in the local community, and police are seeking information about possible other victims.
The Attack
According to the Pasadena Police Department, the crime occurred earlier this month at the Emerald Pointe Apartments on Houston Avenue, just half a mile from the local police department.
The suspect, identified as Jose Maldonado Zavala, was the victim’s neighbor. Investigators say he had been watching the woman before he approached her under the pretense of an issue with her air conditioner. Zavala allegedly claimed that the AC was leaking into his apartment.
Once inside, Zavala forced the woman into his apartment, where he sexually assaulted her. Authorities say Zavala confessed to the crime during his court hearing. Court officials stated that the suspect described the victim as someone he believed may have had a disability, further adding to the severity of the crime.
Community Reaction
The news of the attack shocked many neighbors, who expressed fear and concern about their safety. One neighbor, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said she had no idea such a crime could happen so close to home and vowed to be more vigilant in the future.
The hearing officer in court ordered Maldonado Zavala to stay 1,000 feet away from his victim. His bond has been set at $100,000 for the kidnapping charge, and police have indicated that sexual assault charges are pending.
Police Urge Others to Come Forward
Police believe that Zavala may have targeted other victims, and they are asking anyone who may have had an interaction with him and suspects they may have been victimized to come forward.
Detective E. Guerra is handling the investigation, and people are encouraged to file a report at the police station or contact Guerra directly at 713-475-4909 or [email protected].
The apartment management at Emerald Pointe stated that they were unaware of the ongoing investigation and have yet to comment on the case.
This case has left the Pasadena community shaken, as neighbors continue to grapple with the unsettling reality that a crime of this nature occurred so close to home. Authorities are committed to bringing justice to the victim and are urging anyone with additional information to step forward.
