FORT HOOD, Texas – A soldier accused of spinning a kidnapping hoax to cover his absence without leave from Fort Hood in Texas has pleaded guilty to desertion, making false official statements and obstruction of justice.
Pfc. James Andrew Gonzalez pleaded guilty Friday in a Fort Hood military trial. He could be sentenced to more than 22 years' confinement and a dishonorable discharge.
The sentencing phase starts later Friday.
Gonzalez's brother had said the FBI told the family the Army received a July 13 ransom call. The caller said Gonzalez had been abducted and demanded $100,000 and the withdrawal of U.S. troops from the Mexican border. Gonzalez was arrested July 22 in Laredo during a traffic stop.
Get all the stories you need-to-know from the most powerful name in news delivered first thing every morning to your inbox