Two sisters from Conroe are facing serious federal charges for their alleged involvement in the kidnapping and enslavement of a 12-year-old child. Reports indicate that the victim was discovered with injuries indicative of abuse and malnutrition. Prosecutors claim that over a six-month period in 2025, the child was subjected to repeated beatings, restrained with zip ties, and forced to perform labor.
On January 14, a federal grand jury in the Southern District of Texas issued a two-count indictment against Brenda Mariana Garcia, aged 39, and Tania Evette Garcia, aged 37. The indictment alleges that the sisters kidnapped and abused the minor victim from March to September 2025.
The situation first came to light on September 28, 2025, when deputies from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report concerning a child who revealed experiencing ongoing physical and sexual abuse. Medical personnel at a local hospital later confirmed injuries that were consistent with abuse and malnutrition.
According to federal prosecutors, the sisters allegedly used force, physical restraint, and threats to compel the child into providing labor and services. Following their initial arrests on October 3, 2025, local authorities charged both women with felony injury to a child, unlawful restraint, and invasive visual recording.
Montgomery County Sheriff Doolittle emphasized the importance of child safety, stating, “The safety and well-being of children will always be my highest priority. This case is deeply disturbing, but it also highlights the importance of community awareness and the courage it takes to speak up.”
The investigation was a collaborative effort involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.
Currently, Brenda Garcia remains in custody while awaiting further criminal proceedings. Tania Garcia was scheduled to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Dena Hanovice Palermo on Monday afternoon.
If convicted of the federal charges, both women could face up to life in prison along with a maximum fine of $250,000. Fortunately, the child is now safe and receiving necessary medical care and support services.
