A Pennsylvania woman has been arrested and charged with attempted kidnapping after allegedly trying to abduct a 4-year-old boy from a restaurant in Pittsburgh. The incident occurred on Saturday at the Prantl’s Bakery in Market Square. According to witnesses, the woman, identified as 61-year-old Janice Jones, approached the child while he was standing near his mother and attempted to grab him. The mother was able to intervene and prevent Jones from taking the boy.
Jones was quickly apprehended by restaurant staff and held until police arrived. She was then arrested and charged with attempted kidnapping and endangering the welfare of a child. Police stated that Jones did not have any apparent connection to the child or his family and the motive for the attempted abduction remains unclear.
The incident has left many in the community shocked and concerned. Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto released a statement condemning the attempted kidnapping and praising the quick actions of the mother and restaurant staff in preventing it. He urged everyone to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, especially when out in public places.
Jones is currently being held in custody and is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing. It is unknown if she has legal representation at this time. The child and his family have not been identified and it is unclear how they are coping with the traumatic experience. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.
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