Georgia Man Released on Bond After Alleged Walmart Kidnapping Attempt

MARIETTA, Ga. — Mahendra Patel, a 57-year-old man from Kennesaw, was released on a $10,000 bond Tuesday after spending over six weeks in jail on accusations of attempting to kidnap a two-year-old at a Walmart in Acworth.

The charges stem from an incident on March 18, when Caroline Miller, the mother of the child, claimed Patel pulled her child away from her while she was seated in a motorized cart. According to court documents, Miller described the situation as a ‘tug of war’ over her child.

Patel’s attorney, Ashleigh Merchant, argued during the bond hearing that surveillance footage released earlier contradicts Miller’s account. She asserted that the video clearly shows Patel trying to help stabilize the child, not attempting to kidnap him.

“He believes fully that she’s handicapped and she’s got two young children,” Merchant said, adding that the footage shows Patel asking Miller for help finding Tylenol.

During his release, Patel expressed relief. “I’m a positive guy, so you got to take it one day at a time,” he told reporters. “Better than what I got over there.” After being greeted by family, he also mentioned his anticipation of a home-cooked meal.

While supporters have rallied for Patel online, garnering over 47,200 signatures on a petition for his release, the nature of the charges remains serious. Prosecutors asserted that Patel’s actions and previous criminal history raise concerns.

Prosecutor Jesse Evans highlighted that the state believes the incident constitutes an attempted kidnapping, emphasizing the legal definition of kidnapping as the act of taking a person against their will, which could fit Patel’s alleged actions. In a hearing, Evans showed clips from the surveillance footage, arguing that they depict Patel tugging on the child’s leg.

Miller addressed the court via Zoom and suggested that Patel may require treatment, describing the event as distressing for both herself and her child. The judge, however, deemed Patel eligible for bond, stating that he posed no flight risk and has strong community ties.

As Patel awaits trial, which has not yet been scheduled, he plans to spend time with his family and eat conventional meals again. After hearing the judge grant his bond, applause erupted in the courtroom.