Miami Man Faces Charges in Shocking Boca Raton Kidnapping Case

Boca Raton, Florida, USA - On June 9, 2025, a shocking incident unfolded in South Florida that has left the community grappling with the implications of a rising trend in kidnapping. Alberto Iturrey, a 39-year-old Miami resident, stands accused of kidnapping his former business partner from a Life Time Fitness facility in Boca Raton, demanding a ransom of $50,000 while armed and dangerous. According to CW34, Iturrey allegedly used a taser to overpower the victim, forcibly taking him to a truck where he made demands for money and items of value, including a Rolex watch and multiple firearms.

The victim, whose identity has been protected, provided a detailed sworn statement revealing a tumultuous history of financial dealings with Iturrey, ranging from pawn shop ventures to real estate transactions. Unfortunately, the relationship soured after a questionable real estate deal led the victim and his mother to sever ties with Iturrey. This fallout coincided with Iturrey’s financial decline, prompting threats communicated through WhatsApp that escalated to this violent kidnapping.

The Kidnapping Incident

On the fateful day of the kidnapping, Iturrey tased the victim and forced him into his vehicle, even as the victim managed a desperate 911 call, which was abruptly interrupted by Iturrey, who demanded the phone. Through clever negotiation, the victim suggested they visit a nearby Starbucks, a location equipped with surveillance cameras, hoping to buy some time. However, once they arrived at the victim’s mother’s home, Iturrey seized $30,000 in cash, a Rolex, and at least ten firearms before releasing the victim and making his escape.

Law enforcement traced Iturrey’s whereabouts through surveillance footage from the fitness center and witness statements. Evidence such as a tracking device found under the victim’s Tesla and photos documenting his injuries provided critical support to the investigation. By the end of the police response, Iturrey faced serious charges, including armed kidnapping and aggravated robbery.

Global Context and Rising Trends

This harrowing scenario is emblematic of a broader issue, as Control Risks highlights a troubling upward trend in global kidnapping rates, a situation exacerbated by various interconnected factors, including socioeconomic disparities and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The report notes that incidents are often underreported, suggesting that actual numbers may be far higher than documented.

Interestingly, the situation is not confined to South Florida. According to Esquire, socioeconomic instability and organized crime are principal drivers of kidnappings worldwide. Countries suffering from political unrest and corruption often report higher rates, while locations like Mexico, Colombia, and Venezuela become hotspots for such incidents.

Notably, the average ransom demand globally has seen a significant rise, with demands increasing by as much as 43% from 2019 to 2021. The implications of these statistics are stark; as economic pressures mount, kidnappers are likely to target more individuals, leveraging financial strains and the evolving landscape of ransom payments.

Community Impact and Prevention

As communities like Boca Raton grapple with the aftershocks of such incidents, awareness is paramount. Efforts to combat kidnappings through law enforcement strategies and public education can play a vital role in preventing future occurrences. Enhanced security measures, understanding personal safety protocols, and better communication can empower individuals to protect themselves against threats.

In the wake of this alarming incident, it is crucial to foster dialogue within the community about the realities of kidnapping and the steps necessary to enhance safety during these uncertain times. With increasing kidnapping incidents on the rise, the need for vigilance and proactive measures has never been more pressing.