Court records and official announcements

Franklin Peña Ramos Faces $10M Bail, Death Penalty Consideration in Jocelyn Nungaray Murder

Jun 25, 2024, 11:08 PM

Franklin Peña Ramos, one of two Venezuelan nationals charged with the murder of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray in Houston, appeared in court where his bail was set at $10 million, significantly higher than the $5 million requested by prosecutors, citing an 'astronomical' flight risk. The suspects, Franklin Peña Ramos and Johan Jose Rangel Martinez, allegedly lured Nungaray under a bridge, where she was assaulted for two hours before being killed. Prosecutors revealed that Nungaray fought back against her attackers, leaving scratch and bite marks on one of the suspects. The Harris County District Attorney has not ruled out the death penalty for the suspects, pending further evidence. The second suspect's hearing is scheduled for tomorrow. The case has sparked a renewed debate on U.S. immigration policies, with several political figures criticizing President Biden's border policies, arguing that they have led to increased crime and insecurity in the country.