California authorities have identified a homeless man with a lengthy criminal record as the suspect who allegedly tried to kidnap a six-year-old girl at a pizza restaurant last week.
Evan McLaurin-Nelson, 31, was identified by police as the man seen in surveillance video approaching the young girl last Saturday night, January 4th as she was with her family having a bite to eat in Venice Beach.
McLaurin-Nelson allegedly told the child he had to save her and then followed her until she was placed in her mother's lap. The girl's uncle and other family members ended up tackling and holding down McLaurin-Nelson until LAPD officers arrived after he tried to grab the girl again.
"Several seconds later, the suspect attempted to grab the girl again," a statement from the Los Angeles Police Department said. "This time, the victim's family member was able to grab the suspect and throw him to the ground. He wrestled with the suspect for several minutes until LAPD Pacific Division officers responded and took the suspect into custody."
Six officers were needed to subdue McLaurin-Nelson, who appeared to be intoxicated.
Court records show McLaurin-Nelson pleaded not guilty last Wednesday to charges of attempted kidnapping and resisting or obstructing police. Police described McLaurin-Nelson as a homeless man who moved to California from Las Vegas about three years ago. He has an extensive criminal history in both states, including false imprisonment, indecent exposure, battery and disorderly conduct.
Bail was set for McLaurin-Nelson at $160,000.
Photo: Los Angeles Police Department