A 29-year-old Ohio woman has been sentenced to 22 years in prison after authorities say she orchestrated the kidnapping and torture of one of her boyfriends.
According to the Daily Mail, Martina Esqueda was sentenced Thursday for ordering the assault of Austyn McClellan. Prosecutors said Esqueda lived in a polyamorous household that included her husband, Michael Esqueda, and five additional boyfriends: McClellan, Aaron and Austin Bradshaw, Chance Johnston, and David Cessna. Authorities allege that Esqueda directed several of the men to take McClellan to a Red Roof Inn, where he was held for 10 days.
Allegations of Torture and Abuse
Investigators say McClellan suffered multiple broken bones, along with sleep deprivation and lack of food during the ordeal. McClellan told authorities the situation began after a dog fight occurred at Esqueda’s home. According to reports, the group attempted to break up the fight, and Esqueda broke her arm. Prosecutors allege she blamed McClellan for the injury.
Authorities say the abuse continued until March 21, 2025, when the men allegedly allowed McClellan to make a brief trip to a nearby Speedway store. During that stop, he reportedly contacted someone who alerted his mother. She then contacted the police and removed him from the situation.
Sentences Handed Down
Esqueda was sentenced to eight years for first-degree kidnapping and seven years for each of two second-degree felony assault counts.
Her husband, Michael Esqueda, received 16 years in prison on related charges.
Authorities also revealed during court proceedings that Esqueda had children with five of her lovers.