by A Florida woman and her four children escaped a violent kidnapping and assault by her husband, Antonio Caban, in a harrowing 2023 incident. Caban, 36, is now facing life imprisonment after a jury conviction for his crimes.
What Happened
Antonio Caban, originally from Puerto Rico, followed his wife and children to Florida after years of alleged abuse. On January 3, 2023, the family met at a motel in Labelle, Florida, where Caban demanded further contact. The encounter escalated into violence.
At a grocery store parking lot, a heated argument ensued. Caban forcibly took the car keys from his wife, seized control of the vehicle, and threatened to kill everyone inside. After driving across multiple counties, he stopped in a rural area, ordered the family out, and threatened their lives.
Caban then assaulted his wife with a tire iron before forcing them back into the car. During the ordeal, he threatened to buy a shovel from Home Depot to bury their bodies. When the wife’s phone rang, Caban buried it in a citrus field to prevent contact.
Key Details
- The wife and children fled Puerto Rico to escape Caban’s abuse.
- Caban forcibly took car keys and controlled the vehicle.
- He assaulted the wife with a tire iron.
- Caban threatened to kill the family and bury their bodies.
- The wife cleverly tricked Caban into driving to a shelter where she sought help.
- Collier County Sheriff’s deputies arrested Caban and rescued the family.
Reactions and Statements
Sheriff Kevin Rambosk of Collier County praised the wife’s courage and quick thinking. He said,
“This case is a stark reminder of the dangers that victims of domestic violence can face. I applaud the victim for her bravery and quick thinking in the face of extreme danger. I’d also like to thank our deputies and partner agencies for their prompt, coordinated response, which helped bring this family to safety and a violent offender to justice.”
Investigation and What’s Next
Antonio Caban will be sentenced on July 7, 2025, in Collier County Circuit Court. The case highlights the ongoing challenges of domestic violence and the importance of vigilance, timely reporting, and coordinated law enforcement responses.
FAQs
Q1: Where did this incident take place?
A1: The events occurred in Labelle and surrounding counties in Florida.
Q2: What charges is Antonio Caban facing?
A2: He was convicted of kidnapping, assault, and threatening to kill his family.
Q3: How did the wife escape?
A3: She tricked Caban into driving to a shelter where she could get help.
Q4: When is the sentencing?
A4: Caban’s sentencing is scheduled for July 7, 2025.
Q5: What can victims of domestic violence do for help?
A5: Victims should seek safe shelters, contact law enforcement, and reach out to support organizations for assistance.
Summary / Final Takeaway
This frightening case underscores the severe risks domestic violence victims face and the vital role of courage and quick thinking in escaping dangerous situations.
Law enforcement’s swift action in Collier County ensured the safety of the family and brought a violent offender to justice.
