In a shocking turn of events, three Orange County residents accused of kidnapping a 60-year-old patient from a Novato health care facility have pleaded not guilty, according to the latest reports.
Michael Roberts, 49, of Capo Beach; Laura Boyle, 61, and Paula Burkes, 57, both of Mission Viejo, are facing serious charges, including kidnapping, burglary, conspiracy, and false imprisonment. The Marin County District Attorney’s Office alleges that the trio abducted the patient for financial gain.
The disturbing incident unfolded on Saturday morning when witnesses saw the suspects forcefully removing the man from the facility. A nurse who attempted to intervene was reportedly assaulted. Authorities later confirmed that the patient was under a court-ordered conservatorship, and none of the suspects had legal authority over him.
The alleged abductors were swiftly apprehended during a traffic stop near the Spencer Avenue exit on Highway 101 in Marin County. The patient was safely returned to the facility, though officials have declined to disclose its name.
During Wednesday’s court hearing, the defense revealed that the patient was a relative of two suspects, adding complexity to the case. Despite objections from the prosecution, Marin Superior Court Judge Kelly Simmons granted the defendants release under strict conditions, including GPS monitoring and a ban on contact with the victim or the facility.
Prosecutor Rachel Minarovich opposed Boyle’s release, claiming she orchestrated the abduction. Judge Simmons sternly warned Boyle and Burkes against tampering with their monitors, stating she would not hesitate to revoke their freedom.
Boyle’s attorney, Matthew Siroka, hinted at a “complicated backstory” while expressing relief over his client’s release. The case continues to unfold, with the next court appearance set for March 27.
