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Actor Leo Grillo Charged in Kidnapping Plot Amid Lawsuit

3/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Leo Grillo, an actor and animal rights activist, faces federal charges for allegedly trying to kidnap Adriana Duarte Valentines, the immigrant who won a $6.7 million lawsuit against him.
The FBI intervened in the plot, including a staged kidnapping photo.
DELTA, Grillo's charity, filed for bankruptcy after the lawsuit, which claimed discrimination and illegal firing related to maternity leave.
If convicted, Grillo could face up to 20 years in prison.

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Story summary

Leo Grillo, an actor and animal rights activist, faces federal charges for allegedly trying to kidnap Adriana Duarte Valentines, the immigrant who won a $6.7 million lawsuit against him.
The FBI intervened in the plot, including a staged kidnapping photo.
DELTA, Grillo's charity, filed for bankruptcy after the lawsuit, which claimed discrimination and illegal firing related to maternity leave.
If convicted, Grillo could face up to 20 years in prison.