False Report of Kidnapping, Suspect Arrested and Charged

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 17, 2024

False Report of Kidnapping, Suspect Arrested and Charged

Pueblo, CO- On October 16, 2024, at approximately 5:14 p.m., Pueblo Police Department officers were dispatched to the Sunset Bowling alley located at 1227 S. Prairie Ave, on a report of a kidnapping and motor vehicle theft.

Officers arrived and gathered information from the reporting party, Daniel Reyes, 34, that his cousin 'Sandra', who was 13 years old, was inside of his white F-250 that was stolen. The investigation quickly escalated and involved multiple jurisdictions and agencies. The F-250 was located after an extensive search in the 1100 block of Cypress St and was unoccupied. Approximately four hours into the investigation and search for 'Sandra', information was called in that detectives followed up on. Detectives discovered the reported kidnapped girl had no relation to Daniel, and she was safe at home. Daniel was brought to the Pueblo Police Department for additional questioning regarding the false kidnapping report and was arrested and transported to the Pueblo County Detention Center on the charge of an attempt to influence a public servant, a class 4 Felony.

The Pueblo Police Department would like to thank the efforts of Department officers, Pueblo County Sheriff's Office, the 10^th Judicial District Attorney's Office, Colorado State Patrol, Fountain Police Department, and El Paso County Sheriff's Office for their assistance in responding to this incident.

"While working an armed, barricaded suspect incident on the north side of town, the men and women in dispatch and of our department, other responding agencies, and community members displayed the highest degree of teamwork, tenacity, and dedication to locate the reported kidnapping victim," shared Police Chief Chris Noeller. "False reporting wastes countless hours of manpower and resources, not only in our community, but also in the surrounding areas limiting law enforcement's ability to respond to additional needs. Our department is thankful the juvenile was safe in this incident."

The information contained in this press release is based on preliminary information available at the time of its drafting. The Pueblo Police Department's understanding of this incident may change as additional evidence is collected, analyzed, and reviewed. The purpose of this press release is to provide timely information to the public. In consideration of the foregoing, please be advised that any statements expressed herein are subject to change at any time.

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