A Utah man, Dominic Garcia, 23, has been charged with multiple counts of assault and kidnapping after allegedly holding his girlfriend's family hostage for approximately six months. According to police, Garcia manipulated the family into believing they were in danger from a cartel, using this fear to control them.

Garcia was arrested on Saturday (May 17) and is being held at the Salt Lake County Jail. He faces 28 charges, including seven counts each of aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, hazing involving a dangerous weapon, and threat of violence. The charges stem from an incident involving seven family members, including Garcia's pregnant girlfriend.

The Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake responded to a call from the family, who claimed they were being held against their will. The family had allowed Garcia to move in with them in December 2024. Soon after, Garcia convinced them that his family had cartel ties and that they needed to follow his instructions for their safety.

Garcia allegedly threatened the family with a handgun and forced them to participate in extreme activities, such as a boot camp and ice baths, under the guise of protection from the cartel. One family member reported missing a month of school due to Garcia's demands.

When questioned by police, Garcia admitted that his claims about the cartel were fabricated. He stated that he continued the lie because he feared the family would dislike him if he stopped. The family remains fearful, believing there is still a threat from the cartel.

Garcia is considered a flight risk due to his connections in Mexico. The police affidavit emphasizes the potential danger to the family and community if he is released. Legal proceedings are ongoing, and Garcia's next court appearance has yet to be scheduled.

Gary Sadlemyer and KFAB's Morning News