MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Authorities have detained a woman following an incident where she reportedly offered a father and his two young children a ride, but then did not allow them to exit, claiming she had a more suitable destination in mind for them.
Latrica Marie Allen, 41, is charged with kidnapping and assault.
According to officers, on Sept. 28, the father told investigators that he and his children were walking on Overton Crossing, toward Frayser Boulevard when Allen pulled up to them, driving a 2009 Chrysler Sebring.
The victim said Allen offered him and his children a ride, and in exchange, he gave Allen $20.
When they got into her vehicle, the father said Allen told him, “I’ve always wanted kids, and I have a better place to take you.”
He told police he immediately asked her to stop the car, but Allen refused to let them out.
That’s when he said he grabbed the steering wheel and pushed on the brakes to make the car come to a complete stop. He and his children got out.
Investigators say Allen then approached the father and began scratching and biting him. He was left with scratch marks and a bite mark on his hand, police said.
Police say after she attacked him, she dropped her driver’s license on the ground and left the scene. She reportedly returned, and officers were present at the scene.
She was placed under arrest. Allen appeared in court Monday morning, and there is no bond set for her yet.
