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South Bend, Ind. – In a shocking turn of events, a man accused of kidnapping a mother and her newborn in July 2024 has finally been arrested. Authorities confirmed that 52-year-old Vernado Malone, who had been on the run for months, was taken into custody on Thursday by the St. Joseph County Warrants Team and the U.S. Marshals.
According to the South Bend Police Department (SBPD), Malone allegedly posed as a consultant for a company called United as One and approached a new mother in search of essential supplies for her baby. Claiming to offer assistance for domestic violence victims, he convinced her to complete “intake paperwork” and assured her of help.
While at the hospital, Malone reportedly persuaded the victim to go with him to a local store before taking her to a women’s shelter, where she had already been accepted. However, he instead drove her and her infant to Hammond, Indiana, claiming she could move into a residence immediately. Police later determined this location to be his own residence.
The situation escalated when Malone allegedly made inappropriate and sexually explicit remarks, leaving the victim in fear. Seizing an opportunity while taking her baby for a walk, she managed to reach out to the Hammond Police Department for help. She then returned to South Bend and filed a report with local law enforcement.
After months of investigation, authorities charged Malone on January 29 with:
- Kidnapping using a vehicle
- Kidnapping involving a victim under 14 years of age
His arrest on February 6 marks a significant breakthrough in the case. Malone is now being held at the St. Joseph County Jail as the legal proceedings begin.
This chilling incident serves as a stark reminder to be cautious when seeking assistance from unknown sources. Authorities urge individuals to verify organizations before engaging with them, especially in vulnerable situations.
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