Reading Police arrest man for attempted kidnapping, suspect used social media to contact victim

The Reading Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division has released details of an attempted kidnapping incident that occurred on October 11, 2024.

According to a police, officers responded to a report of a robbery in the 600 block of Ritter Street on October 11, 2024. Upon arrival, it was determined that a juvenile female had been approached by an unknown male in an alleyway. The suspect had previously contacted the juvenile through a social media platform, posing as another juvenile male. After convincing the victim to meet him outside, the suspect attempted to lure the juvenile into his vehicle.

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When the juvenile refused and tried to return to her residence, the suspect chased her, grabbed her from behind, and held a knife to her throat while trying to force her into the vehicle. The juvenile female managed to escape and flee. The suspect then took the juvenile’s phone, which had fallen during the struggle, and fled the scene.

Through an investigation, the suspect was identified as Liam Ishmael Wilkinson. Wilkinson was apprehended without incident with the assistance of the Spring Township Police Department. He faces multiple charges, including: Criminal Attempt Kidnapping, Criminal Attempt Unlawful Restraint, Criminal Attempt False Imprisonment of a Minor, Criminal Attempt Luring a Child into a Motor Vehicle, Simple Assault and Terroristic Threats.

Wilkinson has been committed to Berks County Prison in lieu of $1,000,000 bail.

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The Reading Police Department encourages anyone with additional information about this incident or similar incidents to contact the department at 610-655-6116. Anonymous tips can also be provided through Crime Alert Berks by calling 877-373-9913.

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Berks Weekly
Berks Weekly
Berks Weekly is an independent and locally owned digital newspaper covering the City of Reading and Berks County. Download the mobile app: berksweekly.com/app
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