Homeless Woman Arrested for Attempted Kidnapping of 10-Year-Old in Ventura

Attempted Kidnapping Incident

• 🚨 A homeless woman was arrested after allegedly attempting to kidnap a 10-year-old girl playing near her home in Ventura.
• 👧 The victim, Layla, was outside with friends when the suspect began acting strangely, speaking into windows and trying to steal a package.
• 🤝 The suspect then grabbed Layla's jacket, and the girl described the encounter as terrifying, stating the woman tried to grab her.

Mother's Intervention and Rescue

• 🗣️ Layla's mother, Nikki, heard her daughter scream for help and rushed downstairs.
• 💥 Nikki saw the suspect holding her daughter and intervened, leading to a physical scuffle.
• 🏃‍♀️ During the struggle, Layla was able to break free and run to a nearby laundromat, while Nikki screamed for someone to call 911.

Suspect Apprehended and Community Concerns

• 📍 Bystanders saw Layla run to a shopping center on Grand Avenue, where the suspect was eventually taken into custody.
• 😟 Neighbors expressed shaken feelings and concern, noting this is not the first occurrence of suspicious activity in the area.
• ⚠️ Residents are worried about the presence of individuals described as homeless and acting erratically, especially during summer break with many children around.