Handwritten Note Leads to Rescue of Kidnapped Texas Girl in Long Beach; Suspect Arrested
Photo credit: AP / DOJ
A man from Texas has reportedly been arrested in Long Beach for the alleged kidnapping and sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl.
According to a press release by the Long Beach Police Department, the incident unfolded on the morning of July 9 when community members noticed the victim holding up a handwritten note that read, “help me,” while she was inside a parked vehicle. Seeing the sign, the passersby immediately contacted 9-1-1.
Officers responded to the scene, which was on the 100 block of East 10th Street, and contacted with the victim, a 13-year-old girl who was reportedly in clear emotional distress and who had allegedly been kidnapped from out of state.
Further investigation revealed that the kidnapping had occurred three days prior in San Antonio, Texas. The suspect allegedly approached the victim near a bus stop, brandished a replica firearm resembling a semi-automatic pistol, and coerced her into his vehicle at gunpoint. He then allegedly transported her across state lines all the way to Long Beach.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers detained the male adult suspect, identified as 61-year-old Steven Robert Sabalan of Cleburne, Texas. He was taken into custody and transported to the Long Beach City jail, where he was booked on suspicion of kidnapping, lewd and lascivious acts with a child, and being fugitive from justice.
During the investigation, detectives and the Sexual Assault Response Team ascertained that the victim had suffered sexual assault during her captivity. The Department of Children and Family Services later took custody of the victim.
In the press release, Chief of Police Wally Hebeish commended the community members for their vigilance and prompt action, highlighting the crucial role they played in ensuring the victim’s safety. He also praised the swift response and actions of the LBPD officers, which led to the successful rescue and arrest.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation will lead the ongoing investigation into the case, cooperating with the San Antonio Police Department in handling the investigation. It was unclear at press time whether Sabalan had retained an attorney.
