Harris County Deputies Rescue Toddler After Kidnapping From Wedding Reception

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – A 29-year-old man has been charged with kidnapping after authorities say he took a 1-year-old child without the parents’ permission from a wedding celebration before being found hours later with the toddler unharmed.

According to Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, deputies responded overnight to the 15400 block of Vantage Parkway after receiving a report that a toddler had been taken from a wedding without the parents’ consent.

During the initial investigation, deputies learned the child had allegedly been taken by a relative.

Investigators also determined the relative had reportedly been drinking alcohol and was transporting the child without a car seat.

Deputies launched a search and, using investigative techniques and technology, located the suspect approximately 18 miles from the wedding venue near Navigation Boulevard.

Authorities found the suspect’s vehicle parked on the side of the road. Deputies discovered the driver asleep inside the vehicle, with the 1-year-old child lying across his chest.

The toddler was unharmed and was reunited with his parents.

The suspect was identified as 29-year-old Michael Brown. He was arrested and charged with kidnapping.

Sheriff Gonzalez credited deputies and detectives for their quick response and investigative efforts that led to the child’s safe recovery.