Attempted Kidnapping of High School Student in Orcutt

Source: Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s OFfice

At approximately 8:00 a.m. this morning, November 1, 2017, Sheriff’s deputies responded to the area of Foster Road and Cedarhurst Drive for a report of an attempted kidnapping. A 15-year-old male juvenile was walking to St. Joseph High School when he was approached from behind by an unknown male. The male put his arms around the upper body of the juvenile, trapping his arms and pulled him backwards. The male dragged the juvenile for 10 to 15 feet, all while the juvenile was kicking backwards at the male’s legs. The juvenile was able to kick his way free and ran to the safety of his adult sister who called 9-1-1. Fortunately, the teenager was not injured in this incident. 

The juvenile described the male as a dark skinned Hispanic adult, wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, green cargo shorts, about 5’10 tall, with a medium build. The male had the hood of his sweatshirt pulled over his head concealing his identity.

The suspect is believed to be driving an older model white pickup truck, possibly a Ford single cab. Deputies canvassed the area within minutes of the call but were not able to locate any matching vehicles. Deputies also contacted residents in the area but were not able to develop any leads at this time.

Anyone who has information regarding this incident is asked to please call the Sheriff’s Santa Maria Station at 805-934-6150 or the anonymous tip-line at 805-681-4171.

Residents in the area and students that attend school in the area should remain vigilant and all 9-1-1 to report suspicious persons and/or activity.

The Sheriff’s Office wants to commend the student in this case for making a scene and making every effort to get away from the suspect.