A father in Ohio allegedly used his 11-year-old daughter’s TikTok account to lure her alleged rapist to their home, where he ultimately shot him and they were both taken into custody.
Diego Montoya Gonzalez was indicted on five counts of pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor, two counts of rape and one count of obstructing official business for allegedly raping the victim.
Montoya Gonzalez, 20, pleaded not guilty at his arraignment in Franklin County Common Pleas Court, according to WBNS.
Prosecutors said authorities learned of the case on July 15 when the girl’s mother contacted police after discovering a video on her daughter’s phone that seemed to indicate sexual conduct, per the outlet.
The girl’s father, Malik Chandler, then allegedly lured Montoya Gonzalez to their home the following day by pretending to be his daughter on her TikTok account.
Chandler, 31, claimed he planned to beat up Montoya Gonzalez when he arrived at the home and then notify police about his whereabouts, according to a criminal complaint obtained by the outlet. Chandler told authorities that he believed he saw Montoya Gonzalez reaching for a weapon when he was at their home, which prompted him to shoot him.
Montoya Gonzalez was allegedly shot two times in the ordeal, according to the report.
Following the altercation, a neighbor spoke to WSYX and said she couldn’t believe what happened.
“I can see why he went after him,” the neighbor said. “I’m not saying it’s right, but that at least makes some sense. It wasn’t a senseless thing.”
After he entered his plea, Montoya Gonzalez was given a $70,000 bond. It is not currently clear whether he has been released or if he has retained legal counsel following his arrest.
If Montoya Gonzalez is released from jail, he will be ordered to stay away from the victim’s family and he is not allowed to access the internet for any reason except for work.
Chandler was also arrested for shooting Montoya Gonzalez and charged with felony assault. His bond was set at $100,000, and he has since been released.
It’s not currently clear whether Chandler has retained legal counsel or entered a plea in regard to his charge.
The investigation into the case remains ongoing. The Grove City Police Department did not immediately respond to Us’ request for comment regarding the case.
Parents, teachers, and guardians interested in learning more about protecting children from exploitation can find useful tools and information at Know2Protect.
