In a troubling incident, authorities in southern Wisconsin apprehended two suspects who allegedly stole a vehicle from a gas station, unaware it contained a 2-year-old child. The child was later found abandoned but unharmed on the side of a road.
The Janesville Police Department received a report around 4:35 p.m. on December 13 regarding a vehicle theft at the Stop N Go gas station located in the 700 block of Center Avenue. The vehicle’s owner called authorities in a panic, explaining that their 2-year-old child was still in the car when it was stolen.
As officers rushed to the scene, additional information came in. A good Samaritan had discovered the child on Riverside Street, still strapped into a car seat. Thankfully, the toddler was unharmed. Authorities believe the suspects abandoned the child after realizing the vehicle was occupied.
With the help of neighboring law enforcement agencies, including the Beloit Police Departments, the Rock County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wisconsin State Patrol, Janesville officers quickly began searching for the stolen vehicle. Within minutes, the car was spotted traveling south on Afton Road toward the Beloit area.
Officers intercepted the vehicle and safely apprehended the suspects without further incident. The suspects were later identified as Kristopher Klein and Neanni Bowman.
Both Klein and Bowman now face multiple charges, reflecting the severity of their actions:
Kristopher Klein:
- Operating a Vehicle without Owner’s Consent
- Abduction of Another’s Child
- Child Abandonment
- Two counts of Misdemeanor Bail Jumping
- Felony Bail Jumping
Neanni Bowman:
- Operating a Vehicle without Owner’s Consent
- Abduction of Another’s Child
- Child Abandonment
- Two counts of Misdemeanor Bail Jumping
The charges underscore the potential harm caused by their reckless behavior, especially involving the abandonment of a young child in freezing December conditions.
The successful resolution of the case highlights the importance of quick thinking by witnesses and effective collaboration between multiple law enforcement agencies. Both the City and Town of Beloit Police Departments played pivotal roles, alongside the Janesville Police Department, in tracking and apprehending the suspects.
The incident has left the local community shaken but grateful for the child’s safe recovery. Authorities have reminded the public to remain vigilant and avoid leaving vehicles unattended with children or valuables inside, even for a brief moment.
Janesville Police Chief David Moore stated, “This situation could have had a tragic outcome. We are relieved that the child was unharmed and commend the collaborative efforts of all involved in resolving the incident swiftly.”
While Klein and Bowman remain in custody, the investigation continues. Police are working to gather further evidence to ensure appropriate legal action. Both suspects are expected to appear in court in the coming days.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with vehicle theft and the unpredictable actions of criminals. Thanks to a timely response and community assistance, a potentially devastating tragedy was averted.