Girl, 11, Looking for Lost Dog Kidnapped by Man Posing as Animal Control

A California man has been arrested after allegedly kidnapping an 11-year-old girl who was out searching for her missing dog, luring her into his van by pretending to be an animal control officer before allegedly assaulting her at gunpoint.

According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 8:49 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 19, to an emergency call reporting the abduction near San Francisco Street and 14th Street in Highland, California, about 65 miles east of Los Angeles.

The young victim managed to escape and run home, where her family called authorities.

During their investigation, deputies learned that 57-year-old Guillermo Cascante had allegedly approached the girl while she was searching for her lost dog. Driving an older white ambulance-style van, Cascante reportedly claimed he worked for Animal Control and offered to help her find the pet.

Authorities say the ruse worked — the child got into the van, and Cascante allegedly drove her away and produced a handgun. According to investigators, he then molested the girl while driving around the city before letting her out near Cunningham Street and 9th Street.

The terrified victim immediately ran home, and Cascante fled the area.

Detectives canvassed the neighborhood and soon located a van matching the description parked just over a mile from where the abduction occurred. On Wednesday, Aug. 20, investigators served a search warrant at a home on East 18th Street, where Cascante was arrested and booked into the West Valley Detention Center. He is being held without bond.

Authorities have released photos of Cascante and his van, saying they believe there may be additional victims.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Highland Sheriff’s Station at (909) 425-9793 or submit anonymous tips to We-Tip at 1-800-782-7463 or online at wetip.com.