Chino Hills, CA – A 28-year-old New York man was arrested in Southern California after allegedly kidnapping a North Carolina woman and taking her on a cross-country crime spree, authorities confirmed on Monday. The man, identified as Rahson Govantes, was arrested on October 11, 2025, after deputies were called to investigate suspicious activity at a shopping center in Chino Hills.
The Kidnapping and Crime Spree
According to a news release from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department (SBSD), deputies were dispatched to The Shoppes at Chino Hills on City Center Drive after receiving reports of people loitering in front of the Sephora store. Upon arrival, law enforcement detained two individuals and began a detailed investigation.
During their search, authorities discovered several fraudulent identification cards, Social Security cards, and debit cards. Investigators interviewed a 51-year-old woman from North Carolina, who was later identified as a kidnapping victim. The woman told authorities that she had been kidnapped by Govantes and an unidentified woman, who then forced her to travel across the country.
Torture and Abuse During the Crime Spree
Authorities revealed that the victim was forced to commit fraud throughout the United States in order to repay debts she allegedly owed. During the journey, Govantes and the female accomplice reportedly tortured and abused the victim, including burning her with cigarettes and a curling iron. The horrifying treatment was part of the alleged crime spree, which spanned several states.
Govantes Arrested on Multiple Charges
Govantes was arrested and booked on multiple felony charges, including aggravated mayhem, torture, kidnapping, and assault with a deadly weapon. The female suspect who accompanied him is still at large, and authorities are working to identify her and any additional victims linked to the pair’s criminal activities.
Investigation Ongoing
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has urged anyone with information or anyone who may have been victimized by the suspects to come forward. Those with relevant details are encouraged to call the Chino Hills Police Department at (909) 364-2000.
Have you seen or heard anything related to this crime spree? Share your information with the authorities and help bring justice to the victims.
