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Memphis Mayor Targeted in Alleged Kidnapping Attempt
Just days after Mayor Paul Young publicly touted declining crime rates in Memphis, he became the target of an alleged kidnapping attempt. 25-year-old Trenton Abston was arrested Wednesday and charged with attempted kidnapping, stalking, and aggravated criminal trespass against Mayor Young.
According to the Memphis Police Department (MPD), Abston was captured on both public and private security cameras scaling a wall into the mayor’s neighborhood and approaching his home. Police apprehended Abston and discovered a taser, gloves, rope, and duct tape in his vehicle. The MPD credits the quick response of officers and the security footage for the swift arrest.
Abston is currently in custody at the Shelby County jail. As of Friday, his bond had not been set, and it remains unclear if he has legal representation.
This incident follows a recent exchange between Young and sports analyst Stephen A. Smith.
Smith commented on ESPN’s “First Take” that some NBA players feel Memphis is unsafe. Young, along with Grizzlies star Ja Morant, pushed back against these claims, citing decreased crime statistics.
Ironically, the alleged kidnapping attempt occurred just a day after this public debate about safety in Memphis. The MPD has stated that the security footage related to the incident is not currently available for release.
The department also released a statement emphasizing its commitment to the safety of all Memphis residents, including city officials, and underscored its serious approach to all potential threats.