Man Charged for Abducting Evanston Student Who Missed School Bus: Police
Introduction to the Incident
EVANSTON – A 43-year-old man has been charged after allegedly abducting a 14-year-old girl on her way to school in Evanston and coercing her into sexual contact, police said.
Details of the Abduction
Police said the girl was trying to catch a bus to Evanston Township High School in the 100 block of Chicago Avenue on Dec. 3 when she missed it. A man driving a gray vehicle approached her and, after learning she was late for school, lured her into his car by offering a ride. Once inside the vehicle, the man implied he had a knife and forced the girl to "touch him in a sexual manner," according to police. He then drove to the area of the high school, dropped her off and left. The girl was not physically injured and went into school.
Investigation and Arrest
Authorities said she reported the incident to a school resource officer on Dec. 4, prompting an investigation. She provided descriptions of the man and his vehicle, which investigators later found on camera footage from the time she was dropped off. Police identified the suspect as Artrez Drane, 43. Chicago police stopped Drane on Dec. 8 in the 1800 block of West Pratt Boulevard. Evanston detectives responded and took him into custody, seizing the Acura he was driving.
Pictured is Artrez Drane. (Evanston PD)
Charges and Proceedings
Drane was taken to the Evanston Police Department, where investigators said he made statements indicating he was the offender. The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office approved felony charges of aggravated kidnapping and aggravated criminal sexual abuse on Dec. 10.
Next Steps and Public Awareness
Police said the incident may not have been isolated. Drane’s vehicle is described as a gray 2007 Acura RDX SUV with a damaged front passenger door that cannot be opened. He is described as Black, about 5-foot-8 and 165 pounds, and was reportedly wearing a reflective vest at the time of the incident. Drane appeared at a detention hearing Thursday and is currently being held by the Cook County sheriff. Anyone with information about this incident or similar encounters is asked to contact the Evanston Police Department Detective Bureau at 847-866-5040.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the importance of vigilance and awareness in the community, especially concerning the safety of children. The swift action by the authorities and the cooperation of the public are crucial in preventing and solving such crimes. It’s essential for parents, schools, and law enforcement to work together to ensure a safe environment for all students.
FAQs
- Q: What happened to the 14-year-old girl?
- A: The girl was allegedly abducted by a man who offered her a ride after she missed her school bus. She was forced into sexual contact but was not physically injured.
- Q: Who is the suspect?
- A: The suspect is identified as Artrez Drane, a 43-year-old man.
- Q: What are the charges against the suspect?
- A: Drane is charged with felony counts of aggravated kidnapping and aggravated criminal sexual abuse.
- Q: How can the public help?
- A: Anyone with information about this incident or similar encounters is asked to contact the Evanston Police Department Detective Bureau at 847-866-5040.
- Q: What is the current status of the suspect?
- A: Drane is currently being held by the Cook County sheriff after appearing at a detention hearing.
