Pembroke, MA – Authorities say a man who posed as a valet driver has been accused of kidnapping a 75-year-old woman and taking her from Massachusetts to Rhode Island.
Suspect and Charges
The suspect, identified as Michael J. Guerrero, 36, faces multiple charges including carjacking, kidnapping, and indecent assault, according to the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office.
Guerrero pleaded not guilty on Monday. He is currently being held without bail pending a dangerousness hearing on October 6.
Incident Details
The incident happened on September 14 at a 99 Restaurant in Pembroke, Massachusetts. The victim, who was not named, had returned to the restaurant around 9:15 p.m. to look for her missing wallet and phone.
At that time, Guerrero allegedly posed as a valet driver and offered to help her enter through a “back entrance.”
Instead, prosecutors say Guerrero got behind the wheel of the woman’s car and drove her onto the highway. During the drive, he allegedly demanded that the woman perform sexual acts and claimed to have a gun.
Escape Attempt
When the vehicle reached a four-way intersection, believed to be in Providence or Johnston, Rhode Island, the victim attempted to escape.
Guerrero reportedly turned off the engine, threw the car keys away, and fled the scene on foot. The woman managed to return safely to Massachusetts and reported the crime to Pembroke Police the following day.
Investigation and Arrest
Police shared surveillance images of the suspect on social media, noting that he had approached several vehicles asking for rides. Within four hours, police received information from four local restaurants confirming Guerrero’s presence at their locations on September 14.
As per CNN, the investigators later learned that Guerrero used a ride-share app that evening to move around. He was arrested on September 24 in Providence, Rhode Island, and extradited back to Massachusetts the next day.
Court Proceedings
Guerrero appeared in court for his arraignment on Monday. He is being held without bail until the scheduled dangerousness hearing on October 6.
What do you think about this case? Should bail be denied for suspects in violent incidents like this? Share your thoughts in the comments.
