WATCH: Terrifying security video shows attempted abduction of child in Florida

CCTVs capture a "tug of war" of 13-year-old girl between her mother and would-be kidnapper -- in broad daylight

Published June 8, 2016 5:01PM (EDT)

 (FOX 13)
(FOX 13)

CCTV footage from a Hernando, Florida, dollar store captured an attempted kidnapping Tuesday morning, according to a report from local affiliate FOX 13.

According to local police, a woman and her 13-year-old daughter were shopping when a man later identified as 30-year-old Craig Bonello, "tried to run towards the exit with the girl in his arms, but the teen's mother caught up and a 'tug of war' ensued."

Bonello eventually gave up on the "tug of war" and fled to his car, the report said.

Off-duty deputy Jonathan Behnen happened to be pulling into the parking lot in his squad car. Alerted to the situation, Behnen blocked Bonello's car from leaving and ultimately made the arrest.

"Deputy Behnen pulled out his service weapon and ordered Bonello from his car," according to the report. "Bonello hesitated, but complied and was taken into custody."

Bonello is facing child abuse and kidnapping charges.

"In my 10 years on the road I have never seen anything like this," Sgt. Craig Callahan told FOX 13 at the scene. "He truly intended to abduct this child right in front of everyone in the store."

Read the full report here.

And watch the footage below:


By Brendan Gauthier

Brendan Gauthier is a freelance writer.

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Craig Bonello Florida Kidnapping