Suspect in Jocelyn Nungaray’s Case Also Linked to Previous Sexual Assault in Costa Rica

One of two suspects charged in the murder of Jocelyn Nungaray is now also accused of raping an American woman in Costa Rica, as stated by former Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg.

Two Venezuelan illegal immigrants, suspected of having links to the Tren de Aragua gang — Franklin Jose Pena Ramos, 26, and Johan Jose Rangel Martinez, 21 — are charged with the murder of the 12-year-old in June 2024. They reportedly sexually assaulted and strangled the young girl, leaving her body tied in a bayou in Houston.

Ogg informed FOX 26 Houston last week that during her investigation as District Attorney, before Sean Teare succeeded her last year, she discovered that Pena Ramos had previously been involved in a sexual assault case in Costa Rica involving an American woman who seemed to be on vacation at the time.

“It happened in Costa Rica. It happened to an American citizen who came forward with that information after their pictures were shown on national television,” Ogg told the outlet. “When she reported it to the authorities in Costa Rica, they did nothing. Imagine the frustration of that individual. I don’t want that to be swept under the carpet.” 

“I support immigration, but I say there’s just a right way and a wrong way to do it,” she explained. “He’s protecting the people, and he’s taking consideration to the people, us the citizens and making sure we’re safe and our kids are safe, women are safe, that we’re all safe in our communities.”

“We’ve still got a long way to go,” she went on. “But I will always advocate for her and be her voice and stand up for better border control and immigration laws. Because I know 1 million percent, Jocelyn’s death should have been preventable.”

Pena Ramos illegally crossed into El Paso, Texas, in May 2024, sources with the Department of Homeland Security previously confirmed to Fox News. He was caught by Border Patrol agents and was released into the U.S. with a Notice to Appear in court. 

Rangel Martinez also crossed illegally into El Paso in March and was caught by Border Patrol. He was released into the U.S. on an unknown basis. 

Jocelyn had been at a convenience store and was talking to her 13-year-old boyfriend on the phone after sneaking out of her family’s apartment. The boyfriend told investigators that he could hear Nungaray talking with two people. 

Fox News’ Peter Pinedo contributed to this report.