Parsons Police Arrest Man for Attempted Kidnapping of Newborn
PARSONS, Kan. — A man in southeast Kansas faces serious charges after allegedly attempting to kidnap a newborn from a hospital. Authorities were alerted to the incident at Labette Health on Tuesday evening, around 6 p.m., when hospital security intervened to prevent the man from leaving the premises with the infant.
Investigators identified the suspect as 30-year-old Eric Matthews, who was caught on surveillance cameras attempting to exit the obstetrics ward with the one-day-old baby. The hospital staff and witnesses played a crucial role in detaining Matthews until the police arrived.
Matthews, reportedly known to the child’s family, has a history of drug use, raising concerns about the child’s safety. As a result, he was arrested and booked on charges of kidnapping and child endangerment. The Parsons Police Department expressed gratitude to Labette Health’s staff for their swift action that aided in preventing the potential abduction.
This alarming incident has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the importance of vigilance in hospital settings, particularly in protecting vulnerable patients like newborns.
Matthews’ arraignment is pending, and further investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the circumstances surrounding the attempted kidnapping. Authorities encourage anyone with additional information to contact the Parsons Police.
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