Incident Involving Attempted Kidnapping in Michigan
The Kentwood Police Department has reported a video recording of a Michigan man trying to abduct a 14-year-old girl last month. This was part of a series of troubling events on that day.
On May 12, 2026, a 66-year-old woman stated she was tending to her garden between 5:00 and 6:30 p.m. when a man blocked her vehicle, struck up a conversation, made unwelcome advances, and physically assaulted her.
Mary Rabe, the first victim, recounted her experience during which a man claimed he was grieving his brother’s death. “He approached me with this very tragic story,” she said, recalling how unsettling the interaction felt.
When the man requested to wash his hands, Ms. Rabe pointed him to a nearby gas station. However, as she extended her hand for a handshake, he wrapped his arm around her, trying to kiss her. “He invaded my personal space,” she remarked, noting how uncomfortable the encounter became.
As police looked into the matter, they received a report around 6:40 p.m. regarding an attempted kidnapping involving the teenage girl. The footage captured a dark SUV pulling up next to her before the suspect jumped out and assaulted her.
The girl managed to fight back against her attacker. She told investigators that he grabbed her and exclaimed, “I’ve got you,” but she successfully defended herself, causing him to flee in his vehicle.
Authorities praised the girl’s quick thinking and courage. “The victim undoubtedly saved her own life,” said Lt. Tim Wierenga of the Kentwood Police Department. “She fought hard and forced the suspect to escape.”
Investigators conducted interviews, gathered license plate information, and analyzed surveillance footage which revealed that the same suspect was behind both the assault on the elderly woman and the attempted abduction.
The suspect has been identified as 29-year-old John Moore, who was arrested within a day. He faces charges including false imprisonment and assault and battery, with bail set at $140,000.
Records indicate that Moore has a previous criminal history, including probation violations related to voyeurism. In another incident in September 2023, he was arrested for filming women at a grocery store, raising further concerns about his pattern of behavior.
“Clearly, he wasn’t choosy about his victims,” Rabe commented, reflecting on the grave nature of the incidents. “I’m just relieved I stayed alert and didn’t let him gain further access to me.”
Anyone with additional information related to these incidents is encouraged to reach out to the Kentwood Police Department.
