Woman found, suspect in custody after kidnapping caught on camera, Fresno police say

The Fresno woman kidnapped and assaulted on Monday morning was found and a suspect has been arrested.

The Fresno Police Department announced on Facebook Monday that a suspect was brought into police custody and the victim was found safe. Police identified him Tuesday as Jesus Benitez Jr., 33.

The kidnapping happened at around 10:11 a.m. when a 30-year-old victim was kidnapped by her ex-boyfriend at Fresno Street and Tyler Avenue.

Police said they believe the suspect was driving an SUV and rammed a car carrying a woman who he had previously dated before forcing her into his car and driving away. The vehicle involved in the kidnapping was also recovered by police.

Police confirmed someone in the area caught at least part of the incident on a cellphone camera.

Benitez was booked into Fresno County Jail on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, kidnapping and domestic battery, police said.

His bail is set at $75,000, according to jail records.

This story was originally published March 21, 2022 at 10:11 PM.