Walmart Abduction Accusation: Man Freed After 45 Days, Video Shows Innocence
After 45 days in jail, Mahendra Patel, accused of attempted kidnapping at a Georgia Walmart, was granted a $10,000 bond. His attorney presented security footage suggesting Patel was trying to prevent a child from falling, contradicting the mother’s account of an attempted abduction. While prosecutors cited a prior felony conviction and DUI arrest, the judge cited the video evidence and Patel’s community ties in granting bond, stating he did not believe Patel to be a flight risk. Patel was indicted on charges of attempted kidnapping, simple assault, and simple battery following a grand jury hearing.
John Q. Hosedrinker