Texas authorities uncovered a chilling case of deliberate, prolonged abuse that has left a community reeling. A woman was rescued from months of captivity after she was found partially unclothed and severely injured, handcuffed outside a South Austin home. What was initially thought to be a routine welfare check quickly turned into a harrowing discovery.
Image Source: Austin Police Department
Law enforcement reports detail the horrifying conditions the woman endured. Her restraints were rusty and difficult to remove, requiring responders to cut through heavy metal links. She bore extensive injuries, including lacerations and wounds consistent with repeated BB gun attacks. According to Law & Crime reports, at least one pellet remained lodged in her eye.
Authorities say the Texas woman had been confined for months and was punished whenever she attempted to resist or leave the property. Officers also found three young children inside the residence, who were placed into protective care by Child Protective Services. The victim was taken to a hospital for treatment, where her injuries were documented and monitored.
Texas Victim Endures Months of Brutality
Five adults are now in custody in Texas. Michelle Garcia, 51; Crystal Garcia, 21; Mache Carney, 32; Juan Pablo Castro, 30; and Maynard Lefevers, 21. They face charges including aggravated kidnapping, aggravated assault, injury to the elderly or disabled, and unlawful restraint.
During interviews, some defendants offered conflicting explanations for the woman’s confinement, citing alleged behavioral issues and mental health concerns. Castro allegedly admitted to purchasing a BB gun to punish the victim, chasing her across the yard while firing.
“[O]ne day they decided they didn’t like her anymore and no longer allowed her to leave,” the affidavit reads. “I [expletive] hate her,” Castro, Carney’s husband, allegedly told police when asked to account for the BB gun attacks.
Other suspects reportedly enforced strict routines, including forced outdoor sleep, minimal food, and constant handcuffing. Police say even minor “infractions,” such as slipping pants, led to severe punishment.
This Texas case exposes the cruel lengths some individuals will go to dominate and control others. The prolonged abuse appears intentional and premeditated, leaving the victim with physical and psychological scars.
This terrifying case out of Texas reveals the dangers that can hide behind closed doors. Even ordinary-seeming neighborhoods can conceal prolonged cruelty. While the perpetrators face justice, the impact on the victim and the lessons for communities will linger long after the arrests.
Kenna Raye 
Hunter Spears 
Sabrina Russell 
