Suspect in Jocelyn Nungaray’s Murder Faces New Allegations of Sexual Assault in Costa Rica

Suspect in Jocelyn Nungaray’s Murder Faces New Allegations of Sexual Assault in Costa Rica

One of the two suspects charged with the tragic murder of Jocelyn Nungaray has now been accused of sexually assaulting an American woman while in Costa Rica, as revealed by former Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg.

Franklin Jose Pena Ramos, 26, and Johan Jose Rangel Martinez, 21, both Venezuelan illegal immigrants with rumored connections to the Tren de Aragua gang, are implicated in the brutal murder of the 12-year-old girl. They allegedly assaulted and strangled Nungaray, leaving her body tied in a Houston bayou.

In a recent revelation to FOX 26 Houston, Ogg discussed her findings during her tenure as DA. She noted that before her successor Sean Teare took office, she learned that Pena Ramos had previously been involved in a sexual assault against an American woman who was vacationing in Costa Rica.

“This incident took place in Costa Rica. The victim was an American citizen who approached authorities after seeing the suspects’ pictures broadcast on national television,” Ogg stated. “However, when she reported the incident to Costa Rican officials, they failed to take action. This situation must not be ignored.”

The American woman who came forward is not a resident of Texas, yet she felt a powerful motivation to speak out after the horrifying details of Nungaray’s murder emerged in the media.

Ogg remarked, “The courage that any crime victim demonstrates when coming forward is commendable. This played a significant role in evaluating whether the death penalty is a fitting response in this case.”

MOM OF VICTIM SPEAKS OUT

Alexis Nungaray, Jocelyn’s mother, has emerged as an advocate for victims impacted by crimes allegedly committed by undocumented immigrants. In an earlier interview, she described her daughter as a creative, talented, and free-spirited individual.

Nungaray fondly recalled her daughter’s unique style, noting, “She often wore 1990s-style cargo jeans and Converse shoes, and her musical tastes extended back to the 1940s and 1950s.”

Referring to her daughter as an “old soul,” Nungaray expressed her sentiments about the ongoing battle for justice, saying, “She was distinctively different and amazing as a friend.”

CALL FOR JUSTICE AND PUBLIC AWARENESS

Ogg, who previously sought the death penalty for both suspects, emphasized the challenge authorities face due to a lack of knowledge about the suspects’ histories, including prior charges in other nations. Ogg stated, “This lack of awareness complicates assessments regarding future dangers posed by individuals like them.”

Ogg made her decision to come forward now because of concerns regarding the legal decisions made by her successor, Teare. She referred to several cases recently dismissed and underscored the importance of public engagement in the judicial process.

“It is crucial for the public to participate in the final decision-making process regarding appropriate sentencing,” she explained. “Do these individuals deserve the death penalty for the rape and murder of Jocelyn? Or should they face life imprisonment? I want to prevent any secret deals that could occur after the public forgets the atrocities of this case alongside its evidence.”

JOCELYN’S MOTHER’S ADVOCACY

Alexis Nungaray has garnered attention for her ongoing advocacy efforts, promoting better immigration control and justice for victims. She expressed gratitude toward President Donald Trump for his stance on border security and immigration enforcement, asserting, “I believe there is a right way and a wrong way to address immigration. By prioritizing safety for citizens and communities, he is fulfilling his promises.”

Nungaray added, “Although there remains considerable work to do, I will continue to advocate for my daughter and be her voice in the push for more effective immigration laws. I firmly believe that Jocelyn’s death could have been avoided.”

ILLEGAL CROSSINGS AND MURDER CASE

Pena Ramos crossed illegally into El Paso, Texas, in May 2024. Sources from the Department of Homeland Security confirmed he was apprehended by Border Patrol agents but subsequently released with a Notice to Appear in court.

Similarly, Rangel Martinez crossed illegally into El Paso in March and was also caught by Border Patrol. Details about the basis of his release remain unclear.

Prior to her murder, Jocelyn had sneaked out of her family’s apartment to visit a nearby convenience store. Her boyfriend reported hearing her conversation with two individuals whom he later identified as the suspects.

As this case continues to unfold, it sparks critical conversations regarding illegal immigration, public safety, and the enforcement of laws designed to protect vulnerable communities.

Fox News’ Peter Pinedo contributed to this report, underscoring the gravity of this ongoing investigation and the search for justice for Jocelyn Nungaray.