A Mexican national with a history of repeated illegal re-entry into the United States has been arrested in Alabama for allegedly attempting to kidnap a 17-year-old girl. Authorities have revealed alarming details surrounding the case, including the suspect’s previous deportations and evidence of premeditation.
What Happened?
On New Year’s Eve, around 5:40 p.m., Yordy Centeno Melchor, 31, allegedly approached a teenage girl in the parking lot of a store in Holtville, Alabama. According to Elmore County Sheriff Bill Franklin, Melchor used a pretext to engage the girl as she moved a shopping cart near his vehicle.
“It seems as if, when he got in the parking lot, he sort of coaxed the girl,” Franklin said. “She’s a young girl, just 17 years old.”
An unidentified bystander noticed the teenager appeared to be in distress and confronted Melchor. This intervention caused Melchor to flee the scene, leaving the girl unharmed but shaken.
How Authorities Tracked Him Down
After the incident, the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office issued a be-on-the-lookout (BOLO) alert for the suspect. Investigators quickly obtained video footage from the store’s surveillance cameras, which showed the parking lot altercation and provided a clear view of the suspect’s vehicle.
Using the license plate information captured in the footage, law enforcement tracked the vehicle to a neighboring county about 30 miles north of Elmore. Days later, officers located a vehicle matching the description and pulled it over. Melchor, who was driving, matched the description of the suspect.
Evidence of Premeditation
A search of Melchor’s phone revealed disturbing notes in which he appeared to outline his intentions. According to Sheriff Franklin, Melchor planned to offer the girl $200 to get into his vehicle. Officials are still working to determine when the note was written, but the victim stated that Melchor showed it to her during the encounter. Investigators believe he used the note to communicate his offer, further corroborating the teenager’s account.
A History of Illegal Re-entry
Melchor’s arrest uncovered a troubling history: he has been deported from the United States five times. Authorities are still investigating the circumstances of his deportations and how he managed to return to the country repeatedly.
This case raises broader concerns about border security and the enforcement of immigration laws, as the suspect’s multiple illegal re-entries suggest vulnerabilities in the system.
Possible Links to Other Incidents
After Melchor’s arrest, a local woman contacted authorities after recognizing his mugshot in the news. She reported seeing a man with a similar appearance in a Walmart women’s restroom, raising the possibility of additional crimes.
Melchor has known connections to San Antonio, Texas, and Shelby County, Alabama. Officials believe he frequently traveled between these areas to visit family. Investigators are now working to determine if he may have victimized others during these trips.
Charges and Bond
Melchor is currently being held on a $100,000 bond and faces a charge of second-degree attempted kidnapping. Additional charges could follow if further victims are identified or more evidence emerges.
Community Response
Elmore County Sheriff Bill Franklin praised his team for their quick action and determination in solving the case. “This is a great group of guys who all have the same plight to keep Elmore County safe,” he said.
Franklin also noted that while crimes like these are rare in the county, the incident underscores the importance of vigilance and the willingness of citizens to intervene when they see something suspicious.
What’s Next?
Authorities continue to investigate Melchor’s background and movements, aiming to piece together a fuller picture of his activities. The case has sparked conversations about immigration enforcement and public safety in communities across the state. For now, the quick actions of law enforcement and a concerned bystander prevented what could have been a far more tragic outcome.
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