GULFPORT, MS (WLOX) -
Gulfport Police say they have evidence linking Terry Slater to a second kidnapping attempt. So, the 53-year-old has been charged with one additional count of kidnapping, attempted sexual battery, and molestation.
Slater's bond is now $2.4 million.
According to Gulfport Police, Slater was initially accused of abducting a 10-year-old girl early Sunday afternoon from a city park and playground located directly east of Central Elementary school.
"The child was walking near the park at 8th Avenue and 28th Street when a male in a white van approached her and forcibly put her in the vehicle," said Chief Alan Weatherford.
Once inside the van, the suspect drove the victim to his apartment complex on 31st Street, just over a mile from the park. She was taken inside his downstairs apartment, but somehow managed to break free and flee.
"Was able to run from the residence, from inside the residence. And the witness who was near the apartment heard her screaming and brought her to her mother," said Chief Weatherford.
Many of Terry Slater's neighbors are shocked by his arrest. WLOX News talked with several residents of the apartment complex. Although they declined to go on camera, they said Slater appeared to be a man who was deeply religious. He often carried his Bible and would preach to them or invite them to church.
WLOX News has learned the white van, driven by Slater, came from Faith Missionary Baptist Church on 19th Avenue, not far from the suspect's residence. It's unknown how he had access to the van.
In a news release sent out Tuesday morning, Gulfport Police said they learned about a second incident where a juvenile was reportedly held against her will. Just like in the Sunday kidnapping attempt, police said the second child fought off Slater's advances and escaped from the suspect's home.
"We really want to put it out and see if we've had any other potential victims or children that have been approached," said the police chief.
If you know of any similar incidents, call Gulfport Police at (228) 868-5959.
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Terry Slater (Photo source: Gulfport Police Dept.)
Terry Slater, 53, is accused of abducting a 10-year-old girl early Sunday afternoon from a city park and playground located directly east of Central Elementary school.
WLOX News has learned the white van, driven by Slater, came from Faith Missionary Baptist Church on 19th Avenue, not far from the suspect's residence. It's unknown how he had access to the van.
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