A Texas man is facing multiple criminal charges after allegedly stalking his former girlfriend, a U.S. Border Patrol agent, and using a drone to monitor her home.
Authorities say the situation escalated when the suspect followed her to her residence, damaged property, and later made concerning remarks while in police custody. The case has raised questions about the growing misuse of technology in stalking and harassment incidents.
Texas Man Accused of Stalking Ex-Girlfriend Using a Drone
Cristobal Gonzalez has been charged with stalking, theft of property, and criminal trespass following an investigation by the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
According to authorities, deputies responded to a family violence-related call on the morning of May 23 at a residence in El Paso County. The victim reported that her former boyfriend had followed her home and damaged her property. She also told investigators that she feared for her safety because of previous incidents involving Gonzalez.
During the investigation, deputies reviewed surveillance footage that allegedly showed Gonzalez using a drone to observe the property. Investigators later recovered a drone and its controller while executing a search warrant on his vehicle.
Victim Reportedly Feared for Her Life
According to court documents, deputies found the victim visibly upset when they arrived at her home. She was reportedly wearing her U.S. Customs and Border Protection uniform and was described as crying when speaking with officers.
The woman told investigators that she and Gonzalez share a child together but are no longer in a relationship.
She explained that after finishing work and picking up her son, she drove home and noticed Gonzalez’s vehicle parked nearby. Concerned about his presence, she quickly entered her garage and closed the door before he could approach her directly.
Authorities say she feared the situation could become dangerous based on previous encounters.
Ring Camera Allegedly Torn Down
Investigators say Gonzalez repeatedly knocked on the door after the victim entered her home. During the incident, he allegedly removed and damaged a Ring doorbell camera installed at the property.
Court records indicate that the victim armed herself with her service-issued firearm because she feared Gonzalez might force his way into the residence.
According to reports, she was prepared to defend herself if the situation escalated further.
The incident ended without physical violence, but the alleged actions caused significant concern for the victim and responding officers.
Previous Domestic-Related Calls Reported
Authorities revealed that deputies had previously responded to the same residence on two separate occasions involving domestic-related incidents.
While officials have not publicly disclosed details of those earlier calls, investigators considered the prior history when assessing the seriousness of the latest allegations.
The repeated nature of the reported incidents contributed to concerns about the victim’s safety and wellbeing.
Drone Discovered During Investigation
One of the most unusual aspects of the case involves the alleged use of a drone to monitor the victim’s home.
Investigators reviewed surveillance footage that reportedly captured Gonzalez operating a drone near the property. Law enforcement later located a drone and controller during a search of his vehicle.
Authorities believe the equipment may have been used to observe the victim and her residence without permission.
As drone technology becomes more accessible, law enforcement agencies across the country have increasingly dealt with cases involving its alleged misuse for harassment, surveillance, and stalking.
Suspect Arrested Without Incident
Deputies later tracked Gonzalez to another location in El Paso County and arrested him without any reported resistance.
According to authorities, he reportedly told deputies that he wanted to “plead the Fifth” while being taken into custody.
Investigators also claim that while he was being held in a detention cell, he made additional comments that raised concerns.
Reports state that Gonzalez allegedly said, “I’ll be back, the laws are pointless.”
Those remarks were included in court records connected to the case.
Bond Posted Following Arrest
Following his arrest, Gonzalez was booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility.
Authorities set his bond at $27,000, which he has since posted. As a result, he has been released from custody while awaiting further court proceedings.
His next scheduled court appearance is set for July 1, when the case is expected to move forward through the legal system.
Legal Process Continues
At this stage, Gonzalez has only been charged and has not been convicted of any crime. The allegations outlined in court documents and law enforcement reports will ultimately be evaluated through the judicial process.
Prosecutors will likely present evidence related to the alleged stalking, property damage, and drone activity, while the defence will have the opportunity to challenge those claims in court.
The outcome of the case will depend on the evidence presented and the decisions made during future hearings.
