HOUSTON, TX – A man accused of attempting to abduct a 13-year-old girl is now in custody, held on a $100,000 bond, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. The arrest of 41-year-old Stanley Dotson was announced today, following an investigation that began after the incident was reported.
Detectives were able to identify Dotson thanks to an anonymous tip, which pointed them to a social media profile. His arrest has brought a sense of relief to residents of the Bella Vita Apartments, where the attempted abduction took place. Neighbors, like Katrina Pickens, say they have been on high alert since May 3, the day of the incident. “My heart is relieved,” Pickens said. “Even though they’re not my kids, I am always watchful of the innocent children in the area.”
The 13-year-old girl was riding her electric scooter when Dotson allegedly followed her, grabbed her arm, and tried to drag her away. She managed to escape by falling to the ground and screaming, prompting Dotson to flee. The girl’s father called 911, and the family was later able to identify Dotson from a photo lineup.
Surveillance footage from the neighborhood also reportedly shows Dotson engaging in inappropriate behavior, which has only heightened the community’s concerns. Many residents expressed disbelief that someone with Dotson’s criminal history was free to roam their neighborhood.
Dotson’s record includes a charge of indecent exposure in 2022, which was dismissed, and he has two prior felony convictions. In light of this history, the district attorney’s office has filed a motion to deny bail for the new attempted kidnapping charge.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone who may have witnessed similar incidents to come forward as they continue their investigation. The community remains vigilant, hoping to prevent any further threats to their safety.