Attempted Kidnapping Raises Alarms in Georgetown Community as Parents Demand Increased Child Safety Measures

Georgetown, Ky. — A serious incident involving attempted kidnapping has raised concerns among local parents. Moises Vergara was arrested earlier this week and charged with attempted kidnapping after allegedly following a 10-year-old girl from her school bus to her residence in a white van. Surveillance footage captured the unsettling interaction, highlighting the pressing issue of child safety in the community.

Georgetown resident Alicia Williamson, whose daughter Addison experienced a similar frightening encounter more than a year ago, expressed her distress upon hearing the news. “It makes you just feel sick, sick to your stomach,” she stated. Williamson shared that her daughter was 12 years old at the time and had wanted to walk home alone. Following her mother’s permission, she remained on a video call for safety.

Williamson recounted the terrifying moment when her daughter spotted a man in a van watching her, who then attempted to lure her closer. “The next thing I know, she’s screaming and running,” Williamson said, recounting the panic she felt when her daughter was aided by a stranger who helped her reach safety before her mother arrived.

According to Georgetown Police, this incident marked one of at least six similar cases reported in the area since 2022. While investigators are currently delving into these ongoing issues, they remain committed to ensuring community safety.

Williamson empathizes with the affected family from the recent incident, remarking, “I understand and it’s so scary.” She highlighted the importance of community vigilance and the role of technology in addressing these dangers, appreciating how a ring doorbell camera facilitated the swift arrest of Vergara.

In light of these alarming occurrences, Williamson has connected with other local parents to foster a collaborative effort aimed at enhancing safety measures for children. “I appreciate and love that I’ve had support from neighbors and friends, family, strangers that have kept eyes out and just helped,” she emphasized, pointing to the necessity of community involvement in safeguarding the youth.

The Georgetown Police Department is expected to provide updates regarding their investigations and any potential preventative measures being considered in the wake of these incidents. Residents continue to advocate for increased awareness and vigilance as they navigate concerns over the safety of children walking home from school.