Rochester Kidnapping Case Leads to Bribery Charge

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - A Rochester man is facing a bribery charge in connection with an investigation into a recent kidnapping, robbery, and assault.

The case stems from an incident that began on the night of February 5. The victim, who was hospitalized with facial injuries, told Rochester police that he had acted as a "middleman" for drug transactions with 26-year-old Crestopher Komakic Joseph Lon Ogak.

Details of the Rochester Kidnapping Case

The criminal complaint says the victim explained to police that he was given $1,500 to purchase oxycodone but was unable to obtain the drugs and arranged to meet Ogak at a Rochester gas station to return the money. The victim stated that he got into Ogak's car, believing he was going to hand over the cash, but instead described how Ogak, who had a gun with him, drove away and accused him of stealing.

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Assaulted and Robbed by Group of People

It is alleged that Ogak drove the victim to his northwest Rochester home, where he was met by a group of people who pulled him out of the vehicle, took him inside the residence, and beat him. The victim told investigators that he was pistol-whipped multiple times and that his attackers stole his smartwatch, phone, and hat. He also alleged that they made a $150 Cash App transfer from his account and took the $1,500 that he had planned to give to Ogak.

Blood Evidence

Police later executed a search warrant at Ogak's home, where they reported finding blood evidence and K-57 pills. He was charged with aiding and abetting kidnapping, first-degree robbery, second-degree assault, and terroristic threats. Bail for Ogak was set at $1 million without conditions.

Bribery Allegations Explained

The bribery allegations stem from activity that occurred after Ogak was charged and jailed. It is alleged that Ogak contacted a number of associates and directed them to speak with the victim in the kidnapping and assault case.

ALSO SEE: Rochester Man Sentenced to Prison in Fentanyl Trafficking Case

The criminal complaint says investigators obtained a series of text messages, including several involving 27-year-old Amnabear Omot Nyigwo. The charges against the Mankato man allege that he offered the victim drugs and $1,500 to recant his allegations against Ogak. The court document alleges that Nyigwo instructed the victim to say "that he was off drugs and doesn't remember what he said and made a mistake."

Conditional bail for Nyigwo is set at $25,000.

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