Kidnap Attempt at Dollar General: Indiana Man Charged

Kidnap Attempt at Indiana Dollar GeneralSCDN photo archives

by Cyn Mackley - SCDN Crime & Justice Editor

An Indiana man is behind bars charged with kidnapping and drug possession after police say he tried to force a mom and daughter into his vehicle at a Dollar General store.

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According to police it happened on Sunday night at the Dollar General on Hoosier Avenue. A woman shopping in the store with her young daughter noticed Charles Copley, 39, following them up and down the aisles.

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When she left the store and got into her vehicle, she says Copley headed straight for the van, but she managed to shut the door before he could get to her daughter. According to the police report, Copley attempted to open the door and yelled, " Hey, little girl, I got something in my car for you. I have a TV in my car I want to show you. Come see the TV in my car. It’s perfect for her room!"

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The woman began backing out of her parking space, but Copley pulled a knife and tried to follow her on foot. She was eventually able to drive away.

She contacted the police who were able to check the store's security footage and confirm her story. Officers later caught up with Copley at a nearby gas station. They say he had a knife on him.

Police took him into custody on charges of kidnapping, intimidation, possession of a narcotic drug, possession of marijuana, unauthorized entry of a motor vehicle, and driving while suspended.