Attempted Kidnapping Suspect Arrested, Charged

November 25, 2008 - Investigators in the Houston Police Department Juvenile Sex Crimes Unit have arrested and charged a suspect believed responsible for the attempted kidnapping and solicitation of sexual acts from a juvenile in the 7500 block of Bellfort on Sunday (Nov. 23).

The suspect, Jean Arthur Vanrysseghem (w/m, DOB: 5-13-83) is charged with criminal solicitation of a child in the 180th State District Court. A photo of Vanrysseghem is attached to this news release.

On Sunday (Nov. 23), a 16 year-old female was walking to work in the 7500 block of Bellfort when Vanrysseghem drove up to her in a black 2000 Ford Explorer and tried to get her to get in the vehicle several times. Vanrysseghem then parked his vehicle and approached the victim on foot, showed her several pornographic pictures on his cellphone, then solicited her for sexual acts. As the victim continued to walk away from him, Vanrysseghem then grabbed the juvenile and tried to pull her towards him but she was able to pull away. The victim then ran to her place of work and called police.

A short time later, an adult female flagged down a patrol officer in the 7700 block of Bellfort in regards to an adult male who made sexual comments and advances towards her. Officers determined the suspect matched the description of suspect Vanrysseghem and he was detained at the scene.

Vanrysseghem was positively identified by the juvenile victim as the suspect who grabbed her and he remains in custody.

VHS/WS/JC
Inc. #172893308

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.