Parsons police on Tuesday evening arrested a Parsons man on allegations of attempted kidnapping of a newborn from Labette Health.
At 6:03 p.m. Tuesday, police responded to Labette Health following a report by hospital security of an attempted kidnapping in progress.
Upon arrival, officers learned that hospital security had successfully intervened, preventing a man from exiting the hospital after trying to take a newborn baby who had not been discharged by medical staff. Eric Matthews was immediately detained as officers, who launched an investigation.
Officers reviewed video surveillance and interviewed multiple witnesses, confi rming that Matthews had attempted to leave the OB Ward with a 1-day-old infant without authorization. According to reports, a family member of the child confronted Matthews before he could exit the ward, stopping him from taking the baby. Hospital security then stepped in and held Matthews until law enforcement arrived.
The investigation revealed that Matthews was known to the family and has a reported history of drug use. Based on the evidence gathered, officers transport-
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ed Matthews to the Parsons Police Department’s lock-up facility, where he was booked. Official charges of kidnapping and child endangerment have been submitted to the Labette County Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks commended both hospital staff and law enforcement for their swift and professional handling of the situation.
“We are incredibly fortunate that this incident was resolved peacefully and without harm to the child. The quick response from Labette Health security staff played a crucial role in ensuring the infant’s safety. These situations can be unpredictable and volatile, but thanks to the diligence of those involved, this matter was contained before it could escalate further. We now allow the Labette County judicial system to proceed with the case and ensure justice is served.”
This continues to be an ongoing investigation, and citizens are encouraged to “see it, hear it, report it.” All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If anyone has any further information on this incident or any other criminal activity, please contact the Parsons Police Department at 421-7060, call the Tip Line at 421-7057 or email [email protected].
