99 Cents to Life - Dollar Store Kidnapper Caught!
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A mother and an off-duty K9 Handler are being hailed as heroes after stopping the kidnapping attempt of a 13 year old girl in broad daylight.
According to the Citrus CSO in Florida, the suspect, 30 year old Craig Bonello, grabbed a small 13 year old girl and attempted to steal her from a local dollar store. Amazingly, the abduction happened while the girl was shopping with her mother. Immediately the mothers instincts took over, and she grabbed onto her daughter to prevent the man from taking her away. After a brief struggle, the man eventually gave up and took off running.
Off-duty K9 handler, Deputy Behnen, was on his way home in his patrol car (having been in court earlier in the day), when he decided to stop at the same dollar store for some party supplies. Just before Deputy Behnen stepped out of his vehicle to enter the store, the kidnapper bolted out of the entrance, attempting to flee in his own car. The store manager followed the kidnapper, and noticing the patrol car, yelled for help.
Without hesitation, Deputy Behnen moved his car to block the suspects escape. He then drew his sidearm weapon and told the suspect to get out the car immediately. After a few tense moments, the suspect complied and was held until he was taken into custody.
Without quick thinking by both the mother and Deputy Behnen, the suspect might have gotten away with a horrendous crime. Thankfully, both the 13 year old daughter and the mother were unharmed during the attack. K9 Storm would like to congratulate both the mother and Deputy Behnen on their bravery!
Pictured above is Deputy Behnen and his K9 partner “Jerry Lee”. The duo have been a positive force with the Citrus CSO for many years protecting the streets from dangerous criminals. Jerry Lee was even named “Florida West Coast Top Dog” in 2013 for winning several competitions focused on searching and detection. K9 Storm is proud to provide gear for real heroes and their working dogs!