Suspect in Jocelyn Nungaray’s Murder Accused of Prior Sexual Assault in Costa Rica
Jocelyn Nungaray’s murder case has uncovered a disturbing criminal history for one of the two suspects charged in her death. Former Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg revealed that Franklin Jose Pena Ramos, a key suspect, had a prior record of sexual assault in Costa Rica involving an American woman. This past crime came to light during Ogg’s investigation before she stepped down from her position earlier this year. Ogg expressed frustration at the lack of action by Costa Rican authorities, who ignored the allegations, highlighting the systemic issues in handling such cases.
Two Venezuelan illegal immigrants, Franklin Jose Pena Ramos and Johan Jose Rangel Martinez, are under investigation for the June 2024 murder of the 12-year-old. According to reports, they allegedly sexually assaulted and strangled Jocelyn before leaving her body tied up in a bayou in Houston. The case has sparked a broader debate about the legal system’s handling of crimes committed by undocumented immigrants, with Ogg criticizing current DA Sean Teare’s decisions and advocating for public awareness about the suspects’ history.
Ogg emphasized the victim’s mother’s courage in coming forward and its significance in considering the death penalty for the suspects. She expressed concerns about the recent dismissals in several cases, which she believes undermine the justice system. The former DA urged the public to be involved in deciding the appropriate sentence, stressing that Jocelyn’s memory should not be forgotten and that her case should serve as a reminder of the importance of justice.
Jocelyn’s mother, Alexis Nungaray, has turned into a passionate advocate for stronger border security and immigration reform. She described her daughter as a creative, talented, and free-spirited girl who loved music from the 1940s and 1950s. Nungaray has praised President Donald Trump for his immigration policies, stating that they have made her feel safer and more secure. She has called for better border control and immigration laws, believing Jocelyn’s death should have been preventable.
Both suspects crossed into the United States illegally in the El Paso area before their arrest. Pena Ramos was caught in May 2024 and released with a Notice to Appear in court, while Rangel Martinez was captured in March and released under unknown terms. The case has not only brought attention to the legal system’s shortcomings but also to the broader issue of illegal immigration and its potential risks to public safety.
As the legal proceedings continue, the case continues to be a focal point for discussions about immigration reform, law enforcement, and the justice system’s accountability in handling crimes committed by undocumented immigrants. The outcome of the trial may set a precedent for future cases involving similar allegations, underscoring the need for transparency and public engagement in the process.