Lubbock Man Arrested After Entering Home to Take Family Member

Jacob Cortez, 22, faces multiple charges including burglary and assault after incident at a Lubbock residence.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 8:55pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a broken lock or damaged doorknob, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the aftermath of a forced home entry.A close-up of the damage left behind after a forced entry highlights the legal risks of such actions, even in domestic disputes.Lubbock Today

Jacob Cortez, a 22-year-old Lubbock resident, was arrested on April 16 after allegedly entering a Lubbock home without consent in an effort to take a family member who lived there. The incident led to a physical altercation with the home's residents, and Cortez now faces charges including burglary of a habitation and assault.

Why it matters

This case highlights the risks and legal consequences of forcibly entering a private residence without permission, even if the intent is to retrieve a family member. It also underscores the importance of resolving domestic disputes through lawful means rather than resorting to violence.

The details

According to court documents, Cortez and another suspect arrived at the 5400 block of 6th Street residence on November 11, 2025 and entered the home without consent in an attempt to take a family member. The residents tried to stop Cortez in a hallway as he tried to enter a bedroom, leading to a physical altercation in which Cortez allegedly shoved, attempted to choke, and tried to punch the residents before ultimately leaving without the family member.

  • On November 11, 2025, Cortez and another suspect entered the Lubbock residence.
  • On April 16, 2026, Cortez was arrested on multiple charges related to the incident.

The players

Jacob Cortez

A 22-year-old Lubbock resident who was arrested for burglary and assault after allegedly entering a home without consent to take a family member.

Lubbock Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and later arrested Cortez.

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What they’re saying

“'what the f**k are you doing in the house, you are not supposed to be here,'”

— Resident

“'No, not until I have [the family member],'”

— Jacob Cortez

What’s next

Cortez is currently being held in the Lubbock County Detention Center on a bail totaling $40,050. The judge will determine if he will be allowed out on bail pending further legal proceedings.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of resolving domestic disputes through lawful means and the serious legal consequences that can result from forcibly entering a private residence without permission, even if the intent is to retrieve a family member.