Leo Grillo, the founder of Dedication and Everlasting Love to Animals Rescue (DELTA), was charged with attempted kidnapping by federal prosecutors. The charges stem from an alleged plot to abduct Adriana Duarte Valentines, a former employee who won a $6.7 million lawsuit against DELTA for wrongful termination.
Key Takeaways
Leo Grillo, founder of DELTA Rescue, was charged with attempted kidnapping after allegedly plotting to abduct a former employee who won a $6.7 million lawsuit against him.
- Leo Grillo arrested on federal charges for attempting to kidnap Adriana Duarte Valentines
- Grillo offered $100,000 for the kidnapping and transport of Duarte to Mexico
- FBI sting operation led to Grillo's arrest after he was shown a fake photo of the supposed kidnapping
Grillo, 77, was arrested on Tuesday after a months-long investigation. According to the Department of Justice, Grillo met with an individual in Burbank in December 2025 and asked him to contact people in Mexico to gather information about Duarte. The following month, Grillo allegedly discussed kidnapping Duarte and her family member in coded language, offering $100,000 for their abduction and transport to Mexico.
In January, Grillo sent $20,000 through the mail to advance the plot. He was shown a fake photo of Duarte and a man zip-tied with duct tape on her mouth, but the plan allegedly hit a snag when the victims were still in Lancaster. Despite this setback, Grillo continued to send money and instructions.
Duarte had worked at DELTA since 2017 before being fired after taking maternity leave in 2020. She sued for wrongful termination and discrimination, winning a $6.7 million judgment that is currently under appeal. The lawsuit led to DELTA filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
The situation remains under investigation. If convicted, Grillo could face up to 20 years in federal prison.
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