A suspect has been nabbed by the Los Angeles Police Department in an attempted kidnapping case that started a citywide search. Olympic Division detectives have taken 27-year-old Vanessa Yara Pineda into custody after she allegedly tried to kidnap a 4-year-old boy on February 25, according to the LAPD.
The ordeal unfolded in broad daylight, around 12:40 p.m. when Pineda reportedly snatched the child from the 600 block of South Virgil Avenue. The parents' confrontation caused the suspect, who is a stranger to the family, to put the child down and flee the scene. Pineda, a Los Angeles resident, managed to dodge immediate capture, but thanks to an eagle-eyed witness, her freedom was short-lived.
On February 28, a passerby in the area of Magnolia Boulevard and Tujunga Avenue spotted Pineda and alerted the North Hollywood Area officers, leading to her arrest at approximately 11:50 a.m. According to the official statement, she was apprehended without incident, as reported by the LAPD.
Pineda has been charged with kidnapping (207(A) PC), with her bail set high, at $1,250,000.00. She was booked under Booking No. 6767745, reflecting the gravity, of the accusation. The LAPD has urged anyone with additional knowledge about this incident to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
Officials have emphasized their dedication to public safety and their appreciation for community vigilance in helping to locate Pineda. As the case continues to develop, the LAPD requests that those with information contact Olympic Robbery Detectives or submit tips anonymously through the LA Regional Crime Stoppers website or the "P-3 Tips" mobile application.
