San Francisco Woman Abducted in Mexico Released After Eight Months in Captivity
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) – Monica De Leon Barba, a San Mateo woman who was abducted in Mexico and held captive for eight months, has finally been released. The news brings relief to her friends and family who have been tirelessly advocating for her return.
Surveillance video captured the moment De Leon Barba was kidnapped on November 29, 2022, in Tepatitlán, Jalisco, Mexico, as she was walking home from work with her dog. The video showed her being confronted and forced into a vehicle while her dog managed to escape.
Anissa Livas, a friend of De Leon Barba, expressed her happiness at the news, saying, “Waking up tomorrow, I think we can all breathe a little bit easier, and it’s a much happier day because of it.” Livas had been leading the charge to bring her friend home, pressuring local officials and even reaching out to President Biden for assistance.
In March, the FBI announced a $40,000 reward for information about De Leon Barba’s disappearance and released video footage of the kidnapping. The video showed her walking her dog just blocks away from her home near Guadalajara before being abducted.
On Saturday, the FBI announced that De Leon Barba had been released by her captors on Friday night. In a statement, the FBI said, “The FBI is pleased to announce that Monica De Leon Barba is safe and en route to the United States where she will be reunited with her family and dog after eight months in captivity. No arrests have been made, and an investigation into the identities of her captors is ongoing.”
De Leon Barba’s brother, Gustavo, shared a photo on Saturday of him and his sister on a plane, expressing his gratitude to everyone who supported their family throughout the ordeal. He wrote, “For the first time in a very long time, we have good news! I need to thank every single person that helped my family and I through this entire ordeal. We can all finally close this chapter in our lives and work on the long road of healing we have ahead.”
While the family is not ready to speak publicly, De Leon Barba’s friends have been given permission to share their joy. Valerie Sherwood, a friend of De Leon Barba, described the past eight months as “crazy” and “exhausting,” expressing her relief that Monica is finally safe.
As authorities continue to search for the suspects, no arrests have been made. The community remains hopeful that justice will be served, but for now, they are focused on supporting De Leon Barba as she begins her journey of healing.
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What measures are being taken by the US State Department and Mexican authorities to improve security and combat kidnappings in countries like Mexico
Or assistance. Livas organized rallies, shared De Leon Barba’s story on social media, and never gave up hope.
The details of De Leon Barba’s release remain unclear, but her family received a ransom demand shortly after her abduction. It is unknown if the ransom was paid or if there were any negotiations with the captors. The Mexican authorities have not released any information regarding the circumstances of her release.
De Leon Barba’s family and friends are overwhelmed with joy and relief that she is finally safe. The eight months of uncertainty and fear have taken a toll on everyone involved, but their unwavering support and determination ultimately led to her freedom.
The US State Department has been monitoring the situation and working closely with Mexican authorities throughout De Leon Barba’s captivity. It is an unfortunate reality that kidnappings and abductions occur in countries like Mexico, but efforts are being made to improve security and combat these crimes.
While De Leon Barba’s release brings hope to those who are still held captive, it also serves as a reminder of the danger that exists in certain parts of the world. Travelers are urged to exercise caution and remain vigilant, especially when visiting areas known for high crime rates.
As for De Leon Barba, she will now begin the process of healing and recovery. The trauma of her experience is undoubtedly significant, but with the support of her loved ones, she will hopefully be able to rebuild her life. This harrowing ordeal has shown the strength and resilience of the human spirit and serves as a reminder to cherish our freedom and safety.
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This is such a heart-wrenching story. I’m relieved to hear that she has been released, but can’t imagine the trauma she must have endured during those long eight months. May she find strength and support to heal from this unimaginable ordeal.