Man Uses Tracking Device to Kidnap Ex-Girlfriend, Arrested After Multi-Agency Effort
RUSKIN, Fla. — A 21-year-old man is behind bars after deputies say he kidnapped his ex-girlfriend using a tracking device and forced her into the trunk of her own car.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office responded around 3:22 a.m. on May 27 to a home on the 1900 block of 33rd Street Southeast in Ruskin for a reported kidnapping. Investigators determined that the suspect, Julian Jaramillo, had placed a tracking device inside his ex-girlfriend’s vehicle to locate her whereabouts.
When the victim exited the residence, Jaramillo reportedly stole her car keys by force and then forced her into the trunk. He drove the vehicle to his home in Palmetto, Florida, where he continued to hold her against her will.
Law enforcement from Manatee County joined the investigation after being alerted by deputies from Hillsborough County. Jaramillo was stopped as he was leaving his neighborhood with the victim still in her car. She suffered minor injuries and was rescued at the scene.
Jaramillo was taken into custody and booked into the Manatee County Jail. He now faces multiple felony charges, including carjacking, kidnapping, domestic battery, and unlawful installation of a tracking device. He is currently awaiting extradition back to Hillsborough County.
Officials highlighted the seriousness of domestic violence cases involving abduction, calling them among the most dangerous scenarios law enforcement encounters.
Anyone experiencing domestic violence is urged to contact law enforcement or reach out to HOPE Family Services for assistance. Their 24-hour crisis line is (941) 755-6805.
The investigation remains ongoing.
