GLENDALE, AZ – A chilling incident unfolded last week as a man in Arizona was caught on camera attempting to abduct an 11-year-old girl on her way to school, according to local law enforcement.
The suspect, identified as 37-year-old Joseph Ruiz, has since been charged with attempted kidnapping and custodial interference. The Glendale Police Department reported that the incident took place on a Friday morning.
Court records reveal that Ruiz lived in the same apartment complex as the young girl. The victim informed the police that she had encountered Ruiz earlier that day near her residence.
The video footage captured Ruiz driving, making a U-turn, and parking his car on the side of the road where the girl was walking. He then exited his vehicle and attempted to grab the girl, who managed to outrun him. The suspect soon abandoned his pursuit and returned to his car.
Ruiz appeared in court the following Monday where the prosecution highlighted his violent past, including an incident where he stabbed his mother in the neck. Despite this, he continued to live with her in the same apartment complex.
Court documents also revealed that Ruiz’s mother noticed her son behaving oddly on the day of the attempted abduction. She disclosed that he had previously confessed to attempting to kiss a minor relative.
Pam Horton, the communications director for the Washington Elementary School District, alerted parents about the incident. She commended the Glendale Police for their swift response and reassured parents of an increased police presence in the community.
Following his arrest, Ruiz was transferred to a detention facility and is currently being held on a $25,000 cash-only bond.