By Roger Lanse
Mario Balcazar, 23, of Hatch, pleaded guilty in federal court on Sept. 24 to a charge of hostage taking.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Balcazar picked up an illegal alien around May 9, on the U.S. side of the border and drove her to his residence in Dona Ana County. He then detained the victim until her family came up with $1,500.
Balcazar faces up to life in prison for his actions. He remains locked up pending a sentencing hearing.