Photo: Cobb County Sheriff’s Office
A Georgia mother's trip to a Walmart in Acworth turned into a terrifying ordeal when a man allegedly attempted to kidnap her two-year-old son on Tuesday (March 18). Caroline Miller was shopping with her two young children when Mahendra Patel, 56, approached them, asking for help finding Tylenol. While pointing him in the right direction, Patel allegedly grabbed Miller's son, Jude, from her lap.
Miller recounted the incident to WSB, saying, "I'm like, 'No, no, no, what are you doing? What are you doing?' He pulled him. I pulled him back. We're tug-of-warring."
Fortunately, Miller managed to pull her son away, and Patel backed off before purchasing the Tylenol and leaving the store.
The Acworth Police Department responded to the scene after receiving a call about the attempted abduction. They used surveillance footage and Flock safety cameras to identify Patel and secure a warrant for his arrest. Patel was arrested on Friday and charged with kidnapping, simple battery, and simple assault. He remains in custody at the Cobb County Sheriff's Office without bond.
Miller expressed relief that her son was unharmed and emphasized the importance of being prepared for such situations.
“[My daughter] knows to scream now,” Miller said. “[Jude] knows to kick and bite to get away.”