SANTA MONICA, Calif. — A 39-year-old woman is facing multiple charges after allegedly attempting to kidnap an 8-year-old boy in Santa Monica while claiming to be a member of the “Russian police,” according to local authorities. The incident took place on Wednesday in an alley near a residential area.
The suspect, identified as Courtney Perrone, is accused of approaching the child as he was helping a neighbor load dogs into a vehicle. According to a statement from the Santa Monica Police Department, Perrone reportedly told the boy she was “taking him” while professing to be a Russian law enforcement officer. She then attempted to seize the child, leading to a struggle with the boy’s neighbor.
“The suspect approached saying she was Russian police and that she was taking the child,” the police said. “Perrone knelt and put her arms around the child and a tug of war between the neighbor and Perrone ensued.”
The neighbor managed to place the child in the front seat of his car and ordered Perrone to leave. However, Perrone allegedly ignored him and attempted to open the vehicle’s door, prompting the neighbor to confront her once more. At this point, Perrone reportedly pulled out a switchblade knife, escalating the confrontation.
Perrone fled the scene on foot and was later apprehended by officers in the parking lot of a nearby Gelson’s supermarket, where she had parked a white BMW she had been living in. She was arrested and is currently being held on a $135,000 bond.
Courtney Perrone is charged with attempted kidnapping of a child under 14, false imprisonment by violence, and assault with a deadly weapon. She pleaded not guilty during her arraignment on Friday. Her defense team has raised concerns about her competency to stand trial, and a hearing has been scheduled for September 9.
If convicted, Perrone could face up to six and a half years in prison. The case is ongoing, and authorities have yet to release further details.
