Willimantic Police Arrest Man for Stealing Car with 3-year-old & Kidnapping

Dec 5, 2024 at 2:46 PM
Willimantic police have made a significant arrest on Wednesday night. A man was accused of stealing a vehicle that contained a 3-year-old child inside. This incident has led to a series of charges being brought against the suspect.

Willimantic Police's Swift Action to Protect a Child

Details of the Incident

Police received multiple 911 calls around 4:17 p.m. on Wednesday from concerned individuals who reported that a vehicle with a child inside had just been stolen at the Valero Gas Station. The officers responded immediately and began searching for the vehicle. Through their efforts, they were able to track it down and ensure the safety of the child. This act of quick response and determination by the police is truly commendable.

They managed to take 28-year-old Haninef Baker into custody in Preston and bring him back to Willimantic. Once there, he was charged with kidnapping in the second degree, robbery involving an occupied motor vehicle, risk of injury to a minor, larceny of a motor vehicle in the first offense, and breach of peace in the second degree. These charges highlight the seriousness of the situation and the police's commitment to upholding the law and protecting the well-being of the community.

The Aftermath and Legal Proceedings

After being taken into custody, Haninef Baker was held on a $250,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in Danielson Superior Court on Thursday. This legal process will now unfold, with the aim of ensuring that justice is served and the safety of the community is maintained. The involvement of the Department of Children and Families and the Connecticut State Police in assisting Willimantic police with the investigation further emphasizes the importance of a collaborative effort in such cases.

The Willimantic police's actions in this incident serve as a reminder of their dedication to protecting the lives and well-being of the community. Their swift response and successful resolution of the situation demonstrate their professionalism and effectiveness in dealing with such challenging situations. It is a testament to their work that the child was found safe and that the suspect is now facing the consequences of his actions.