October 27, 2003 (UPDATE)- A man accused of trying to abduct a 3-year-old boy last week has been positively identified, according to the Gibson County Sheriff's Department. Detective Chuck Finnerty said the FBI positively identified the man Thursday as 61-year-old Ricardo Moreno, who gave a New Mexico address that has not been confirmed. Police recovered evidence in Moreno's vehicle that hinted at other possible incidents, and issued a nationwide alert. "We've had some inquiries from other departments, one up in St. Joseph County and a couple from Tennessee," the detective said. "We're sharing our information." Moreno faces felony charges of criminal confinement and battery on a child, stemming from a Monday incident in which he allegedly grabbed the boy and pulled him toward a vehicle. A shovel-wielding mother working in the yard confronted the man, who let the boy go. The suspect reportedly told the mother that all he wanted was some food for his dog. Under the ruse of getting some dog food, the woman called police. Moreno remains jailed under $50,000 surety bond.
October 20, 2003- A 61 year old man tried to abduct a 3 year old child in rural Southern Gibson County yesterday afternoon...according to Gibson County Sheriff's Department reports. Captain Jim Stoll and Conservation Officer Duane Englert are continuing the investigation that started with a dispatch from Posey County around 2:30 pm. A mother reported that a man grabbed her son and tried to pull him into his car. The mother said she ran toward the man with a shovel. During the struggle, the boy was freed. Officer Englert stopped 61 year old Ricardo Moreno in Griffin. Englert was working with a detailed description. Moreno, reportedly of New Mexico, was charged with criminal confinement and battery on a child, both felonies. Police say they are trying to verify his identity and are checking national sources for any related incidents that may involve this subject. Evidence discovered in the vehicle prompted further investigation, according to Stoll's report.
