Clearwater, Florida became the scene of a thwarted kidnapping on Friday when a local man attempted to abduct a 15-year-old girl from a Circle K gas station. The suspect, identified as 43-year-old Eric Butler, was well-known in the area and was observed by witnesses as he tried to forcefully drag the teenager through the parking lot.
According to FOX 13 News, bystanders at Circle K where the incident took place intervened, allowing the girl, who was reported as a runaway, to break free from Butler's grip. Butler escaped temporarily but was subsequently apprehended nearby by law enforcement.
Further details emerged from an arrest affidavit which stated Butler had grabbed the girl "by her shoulders and hips, and bear-hugging her while she struggled." The affidavit, covered by WFLA, revealed that the witness followed Butler and the victim to Glen Oaks Park, where the suspect was later arrested. The victim disclosed to the officers that Butler had offered her drugs that day and had previously attempted to engage in "illegal sexual acts" with her.
The Clearwater Police Department confirmed Butler's arrest, noting the charges included kidnapping, possession of cocaine and paraphernalia, exposure of sexual organs, and resisting arrest. In a statement obtained by My Suncoast, they added that the suspect had resisted arrest without violence. The girl was reported safe following the incident, and Butler was booked into the Pinellas County Jail where he remains in custody.
