Man Tried To Kidnap Girl, 12, From Bus Stop In Cobb: Police

AUSTELL, GA — A Mableton man accused of trying to recently kidnap a 12-year-old girl from her bus stop in Austell is facing charges, Cobb County Police said Tuesday.

Police said the girl notified a school counselor of the alleged attempted kidnapping, which occurred on May 5 at Riverside Parkway.

Detectives interviewed the child, and she gave them a detailed description of the suspect and the man's car, police said.

The suspect's car was located, and the driver was identified as Seron D. Kennedy, 39, police said.

After being questioned by CCPD's Special Victims Unit, police said he was arrested on charges of attempted kidnapping.

"The Cobb County Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety of all children in our community and encourages anyone with additional information related to this case to come forward," police said in a news release.

Police asked anyone with information on the case to call the Crimes Against Children Unit, (770) 801-3470.

Additionally, CCPD encouraged parents take the following steps for their children's safety:

• Have open and honest conversations with children about safety, including recognizing strangers and what to do if they feel uncomfortable or threatened.
• Ensure children know important safety rules, such as never going anywhere with a stranger and always staying in groups when possible.
• Be aware of their child’s whereabouts, especially during high-traffic times like school bus pick-up and drop-off. Encourage them to walk with friends and avoid isolated areas.
• If parents notice anything unusual or suspicious in their neighborhoodd or around bus stops, they are asked to report it immediately to local authorities.