A man was filmed attempting to abduct a 13-year-old girl outside a Florida gas station on Monday, according to police. The incident occurred in broad daylight at a Shell station in Miramar, a city approximately 20 miles from Miami.
The suspect, identified as Michael Polanco, 32, approached the girl wearing an orange bicycle helmet and a blue fanny pack. Surveillance footage shows Polanco pointing toward a scooter before placing his arm around the girl's neck and leading her to another area of the parking lot. The girl managed to break free from his grasp and fled the scene as Polanco threw a piece of pink fabric at her. It is unclear if the girl sustained any injuries.
A witness working at a nearby auto shop reported seeing Polanco grab the child and stated that he yelled at Polanco, prompting the girl to run into the gas station to call 911. Dispatch audio indicated that Polanco told the girl to "give him some kisses."
Miramar Police Chief Delrish Moss stated that the girl "fought, broke free, ran into the gas station, made all the noise she could, drew attention to the situation and then people were able to call for help." He added, "Why he came here, I don’t know, but we’re glad he was captured before he was able to do something much more sinister."
Officers apprehended Polanco after receiving a report about a man matching his description involved in another disturbance in the vicinity. Both the witness and the victim positively identified him, leading to his arrest.
Polanco faces multiple charges, including battery causing bodily harm and kidnapping with the intent to inflict bodily harm or terrorize the victim. A judge denied his bond on Tuesday.
Police records indicate Polanco has a prior criminal history that includes robbery, sudden snatching, burglary with assault, trespassing, felony battery, and exposure of sexual organs. An attorney for Polanco has not yet been listed, and his case is pending trial.