5 Charged After Detroit Man Kidnapped, Beaten, and Robbed Following Viral Video
DETROIT, Mich. — Federal investigators say five people are facing charges in connection with a violent kidnapping and robbery plot that left a Detroit man bound, beaten, and abandoned beside his burning SUV earlier this month.
Viral Video Sparked Targeting
According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the case began after a viral video in August showed the victim receiving a large sum of money from a social media influencer. Agents say the clip became a key piece of evidence as they unraveled the September 1 abduction and robbery.
How the Abduction Unfolded
Court records allege that Leica Lopez Martinez approached the victim in a parking lot on West Vernor Avenue, claiming she needed a ride. When they reached Detroit’s east side, several suspects allegedly appeared with guns, tied the victim up, pulled his shirt over his head, and robbed him while threatening to kill his wife.
Later that day, two other armed suspects reportedly ambushed the couple at their home, tied up the victim’s wife, and stole a safe before torching the victim’s SUV. The man was left bound and injured beside the burning vehicle.
Five Suspects Identified
Investigators charged:
- Roland Terrel Chatmon
- Leica Lopez Martinez
- Ieasha Ann Stroman
- Dnequia Jenise Stroman
- Kenneth Paul Anderson
Each faces federal charges of conspiracy to commit kidnapping.
Family Involvement Alleged
Evidence gathered by ATF agents included GPS data, surveillance video, ATM withdrawals, and phone records. Authorities allege Lopez Martinez was seen driving the victim’s SUV and withdrawing money, while Stroman was caught on camera using the victim’s cards.
Phone call logs also suggest that some suspects discussed the money with Chatmon’s brother, who is currently incarcerated.
Neighbors expressed shock at the possibility of family involvement. “To find out that his own family got something to do with that — that’s heartbreaking, man,” said neighbor Christian Peterson.
Weapons and Drugs Found
Search warrants executed at the suspects’ homes uncovered weapons, drugs, coins, and stolen items, according to investigators. All five suspects made their first court appearance Friday and are scheduled to return next week.
Do you believe viral videos are putting people at greater risk by drawing unwanted attention to their personal lives? Share your thoughts in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
