MILAN, N.M. –
The Cibola County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to the scene of what was believed to be a domestic violence situation, what they would find began an hours-long investigation that resulted in a raid on a house in the Village of Milan, New Mexico. With evidence collected on the scene, CCSO issued a warrant for the arrest of Paul Barker Jr. in connection with a kidnapping early on the day of May 16.
CCSO was dispatched to the intersection of New Mexico Highway 53 and Zuni Canyon Road in Grants, N.M. A person driving on the road noticed what appeared to be a domestic violence situation, they reported seeing a woman who appeared to be getting pushed out of a car.
While canvassing the neighborhood, CCSO deputies came across a man who was bloodied. While going to administer aide to him, the unnamed man told them a harrowing story about being kidnapped and held against his will. The man explained that his attacker stole property from him. According to Cibola County Sheriff Tony Mace, the victim gave an address to the house he was allegedly held at.
Teaming up with Milan Police Department, CCSO acquired a search warrant from the 13th Judicial District Courts to look inside of a residence on Aspen Street in Milan, N.M. The residence was home of Milan resident Paul Barker Jr.
With the warrant, a joint team of law enforcement agents surrounded Barker’s house and used a bullhorn to call out for him. Upon an initial view of the house, agents identified a “vicious-looking” dog, according to Sheriff Mace. After calling out to Barker and asking him to step outside of the house, family members of Barker informed the police that he was not home. Family safely moved the dog from Barker’s yard, and police agents searched the house.
Law enforcement entered the residence, inside they discovered firearms and other evidence CCSO is not yet sharing publicly. As agents continued their search, CCSO deputies were able to contact and speak with Barker on the phone. They learned that Barker was in Albuquerque, N.M, and informed him that an arrest warrant would be issued; they asked Barker to turn himself in.
The victim’s name will not be released by CCSO. A woman that was allegedly involved in the original 911 phone call has not been identified by CCSO. Sheriff Tony Mace said the investigation was ongoing and thanked MPD for their assistance in this case.