Kentucky State Police Investigates Attempted Child Abduction Investigation in Whitley County

CORBIN, Ky. (August 30, 2024) – The Kentucky State Police Post 11 London is investigating an attempted child abduction that occurred in Whitley County earlier today at the Whitley County Intermediate School.

The initial investigation indicates that Willie O. Bethea, 37 years old of Latta, South Carlina unlawfully made his way onto the playground and attempted to get a child to go with him. He was confronted by school staff and left the property. As a safety measure all Whitley County Schools and Williamsburg City Schools and Corbin City Schools were placed in a soft lock-down. Mr. Bethea was located at the Corbin Walmart and was placed under arrest. 

Mr. Bethea is being charged with

1.(Attempted) Kidnapping of a Minor.

2. Criminal Trespass 1st. 

3. Persistent Felony Offender

4. Operating on Suspended License.

The investigation is ongoing by KSP Post 11 Trooper Matt Ridener He was assisted by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Officer, Corban City Police, Whitley County School SRO and Whitley County School system.

# # #