Trial begins for woman accused in plot to 'kidnap' son from foster family

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Colo. — The trial started Monday for a Parker woman accused of plotting to kidnap her son from a foster home.

Cynthia Abcug, 53, faces a felony charge of conspiracy to commit second-degree kidnapping and child abuse-knowingly or recklessly causing injury.

Abcug pleaded not guilty to both charges.

Lawyers gave their opening statements late Monday afternoon, after most of the day was spent seating a jury. Witness testimony begins Tuesday.

The trial in Douglas County had been delayed seven times – most recently earlier this month.

According to court documents, Abcug was accused of planning a “raid” to kidnap her son, who was removed from her care in May 2019 by child protective services and placed with a foster family.

Then, in September 2019, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office deputies were notified of efforts by social workers to remove Abcug’s daughter from her care.

According to court documents, the daughter told investigators that a man was staying with Abcug and had a "plan” to kidnap her son.

Abcug's daughter said her mother "had gotten into some conspiracy theories" and was "spiraling down,” according to the warrant.

According to court documents, Abcug’s daughter believed she hoped to carry out the raid with QAnon, a group that has spread the claim that a deep state was carrying out a plot against then-President Donald Trump and his supporters.

The trial is expected to last up to four days.

RELATED: Mom accused in QAnon kidnapping plot pleads not guilty

RELATED: Parker mom accused of plotting to kidnap child with help from conspiracy theory group

Contact 9Wants to Know investigator Kevin Vaughan with tips about this or any story: kevin.vaughan@9news.com or 303-871-1862.

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