Accused Murderer of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray Allegedly had Ties to Violent Venezuelan Gang Tren de Aragua

Jocelyn Nungaray, a 12-year-old girl from Houston, was found murdered after being abducted. The suspects, Johan Jose Martinez-Rangel and Franklin Jose Peña Ramos, both Venezuelan nationals who had entered the U.S. illegally, were charged with her murder. The investigation revealed that they had spent time with her before the murder, leading to her death by strangulation. Jocelyn Nungaray's murder case has drawn significant attention not only due to the heinous nature of the crime but also because of the alleged ties of her murderers to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.

Recent search warrants and investigations have specifically looked into Martinez-Rangel's and Peña Ramos's connections with Tren de Aragua. This includes analyzing their social media for gang-related symbols or communications, like specific emojis or messages that align with known gang identifiers. There have been findings suggesting gang tattoos and social media posts that investigators believe link the suspects to Tren de Aragua. These include videos and posts that show symbols or imply gang membership, which have been used to justify the investigation into their gang affiliations. The potential connection has led to broader discussions and actions against gang activities, with Texas Governor Greg Abbott designating Tren de Aragua as a foreign terrorist organization, enhancing law enforcement efforts against them.

It was discovered that the Sacred Heart Church in El Paso, Texas had offered their refugee services to one of the murderers after he had been released by border Patrol, and had received an ankle monitor.