Austin, Texas, December 8, 2025
In a disturbing incident in Austin, Texas, five individuals have been arrested following the discovery of a woman handcuffed and chained in a backyard. Found after a distress call, the victim revealed she had been held captive for several months. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding her captivity, and charges against the suspects include aggravated kidnapping and assault. Three young children were also found at the residence and placed in protective care.
Austin, Texas: Five Arrested After Woman Found Handcuffed and Chained in Backyard
Austin, Texas – Five individuals have been arrested after a woman was discovered handcuffed and chained in the backyard of a residence in Austin. The woman, who appeared to be in physical distress, was found outside the home on October 30, 2025, after a call reported that she was restrained and calling for help. Upon arrival, officers found the woman handcuffed to a piece of exercise equipment, showing signs of physical distress and visible injuries consistent with prolonged restraint. She informed authorities that she had been held at the residence for several months and was not permitted to leave. Officers had to cut through heavy metal links to safely free her from her restraints. She was subsequently transported to a local hospital for treatment; her current condition remains unknown.
During the rescue operation, several individuals exited the home and were detained on-site. The five adults arrested have been charged with aggravated kidnapping, aggravated assault, injury to elderly or disabled, and unlawful restraint. They have been identified as Michelle Garcia, 51; Crystal Garcia, 21; Mache Carney, 32; Juan Pablo Castro, 30; and Maynard Lefevers, 21. Early investigations suggest that multiple adults residing at the home participated in restraining and assaulting the victim over several months. Additionally, three young children were found in the home and have been placed in the care of Child Protective Services. The case is under active investigation, and authorities are working to determine the full extent of the abuse and the circumstances leading to the woman’s captivity.
Background
On October 30, 2025, Austin police responded to a distress call reporting a woman in distress who appeared to be restrained and calling for help. Upon arrival, officers found the woman handcuffed to a piece of exercise equipment in the backyard of a residence. She exhibited signs of physical distress and visible injuries consistent with prolonged restraint. The woman informed authorities that she had been held at the residence for several months and was not permitted to leave. Officers had to cut through heavy metal links to safely free her from her restraints. She was subsequently transported to a local hospital for treatment; her current condition remains unknown.
During the rescue operation, several individuals exited the home and were detained on-site. The five adults arrested have been charged with aggravated kidnapping, aggravated assault, injury to elderly or disabled, and unlawful restraint. They have been identified as Michelle Garcia, 51; Crystal Garcia, 21; Mache Carney, 32; Juan Pablo Castro, 30; and Maynard Lefevers, 21. Early investigations suggest that multiple adults residing at the home participated in restraining and assaulting the victim over several months. Additionally, three young children were found in the home and have been placed in the care of Child Protective Services. The case is under active investigation, and authorities are working to determine the full extent of the abuse and the circumstances leading to the woman’s captivity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges have been filed against the five individuals arrested?
The five individuals have been charged with aggravated kidnapping, aggravated assault, injury to elderly or disabled, and unlawful restraint.
Who are the individuals arrested in connection with this case?
The individuals arrested have been identified as Michelle Garcia, 51; Crystal Garcia, 21; Mache Carney, 32; Juan Pablo Castro, 30; and Maynard Lefevers, 21.
What is the current condition of the woman who was rescued?
The woman was transported to a local hospital for treatment; her current condition remains unknown.
Were there any children found at the residence?
Yes, three young children were found in the home and have been placed in the care of Child Protective Services.
Is the investigation ongoing?
Yes, the case is under active investigation, and authorities are working to determine the full extent of the abuse and the circumstances leading to the woman’s captivity.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Austin, Texas |
| Date of Discovery | October 30, 2025 |
| Victim’s Condition | Handcuffed and chained, signs of physical distress |
| Duration of Captivity | Several months |
| Charges Against Suspects | Aggravated kidnapping, aggravated assault, injury to elderly or disabled, unlawful restraint |
| Suspects’ Ages | 51, 32, 30, 21, 21 |
| Children Found | Three young children placed in CPS care |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
