California man out on bond for attempted murder charged with kidnapping 89-year-old South Carolina woman

In a unsettling incident that has captured the attention of both local and national audiences, Enver Marius Zueros, a 34-year-old man from California, has been arrested for the kidnapping and assault of an 89-year-old woman in South Carolina. This shocking story intertwines elements of deception, financial exploitation, and the critical intervention of a vigilant neighbor, culminating in Zueros’ apprehension and the subsequent political fallout that followed. As we delve into the details of this case, it becomes evident that this was no random act of violence, but a meticulously planned crime driven by greed and a disturbing pattern of behavior.

Zueros, known for his online persona that included cross-dressing on social media, had a history that raised significant red flags. At the time of the incident, he was out on bond for an attempted murder charge in California, a fact that would later fuel criticism of the state’s criminal justice policies. His connection to the elderly victim in South Carolina was not immediate but rather facilitated through an online relationship he had cultivated with her brother. Over time, Zueros manipulated this digital acquaintance to extract financial support, using the victim’s kindness for his gain. However, this flow of funds came to a halt when the woman decided to redirect her generosity towards charitable causes instead.

The crime unfolded with chilling precision. Zueros rented an Airbnb in close proximity to the victim’s residence, underscoring the premeditated nature of his actions. On the day of the incident, he entered her home, bound her wrists with duct tape, secured her ankles with a dog leash, and covered her head with a bag, leaving her for dead. His plan was to extort money from her, driven by his dissatisfaction over the cessation of financial support. Yet, his scheme was interrupted by a retired law enforcement officer who lived nearby. The neighbor’s suspicions were aroused when Zueros answered the door and fabricated a story about the victim being hospitalized after a fall. Recognizing the insincerity in Zueros’ tale, the neighbor decided to arm himself, prompting Zueros to flee the scene in the victim’s vehicle.

The neighbor’s swift and courageous actions were instrumental in bringing the situation under control. Upon Zueros’ departure, he alerted the authorities, initiating a search operation. The police located the victim’s vehicle, where they found her confined beneath the rear seats, remarkably resilient despite her ordeal. Zueros, attempting to evade capture, was eventually apprehended and taken into custody. The victim, though traumatized, sustained only minor physical injuries and was reported to be in stable condition. The gravity of the situation was emphasized by Summerville Police Chief Doug Wright, who unequivocally stated that Zueros would spend the remainder of his life in prison.

The aftermath of this incident has sparked intense debate, particularly in the realm of politics. U.S. Representative Nancy Mace of South Carolina directed sharp criticism at California Governor Gavin Newsom, condemning the state’s lenient criminal justice policies. Mace highlighted Zueros’ criminal history and his release on bond for attempted murder, advocating for stricter measures to prevent such individuals from endangering lives in other states. Her comments reflect a broader frustration with interstate criminal issues and the perceived inadequacies of California’s justice system.

This harrowing episode serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in our increasingly interconnected world. It underscores the importance of vigilance in communities and the critical role that neighbors can play in preventing and responding to crime. Furthermore, it highlights the need for a nuanced approach to criminal justice policies, balancing compassion with public safety to ensure that such incidents are not repeated. As Zueros faces the legal consequences of his actions, this case will undoubtedly contribute to ongoing discussions about justice, online safety, and the protection of vulnerable populations.