Brooklyn Woman Arrested Following Attempted Kidnapping
A Crown Heights family member intervened to stop an attempted kidnapping of a young child on Monday.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Child Care
Police arrested 47-year-old Brooklyn resident Chrissy Payne after she allegedly attempted to kidnap a 4-year-old boy on Eastern Parkway. A family member physically stopped the suspect during the incident, which occurred near Utica Avenue.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the critical importance of situational awareness in public spaces for families. Police released surveillance footage of the suspect on Thursday following the attempted abduction.
Chrissy Payne, 47, faces charges of attempted kidnapping and child endangerment following the incident. The suspect has a record of five prior arrests for assault and petit larceny in 2026.
The players
Chrissy Payne
A 47-year-old Brooklyn resident with five prior 2026 arrests who is currently charged with attempted kidnapping.
NYPD
The New York City Police Department responsible for public safety and the release of surveillance footage in this investigation.
The details
The attempted kidnapping occurred on Monday evening when the suspect allegedly grabbed a 4-year-old boy who was walking with his grandmother. The suspect dragged the child across the street before a family member intervened and physically stopped the abduction. The NYPD subsequently reviewed and released surveillance footage to aid in the investigation.
Timeline
The incident occurred on Monday at 5 p.m.
The NYPD released surveillance footage of the suspect on Thursday.
Charges were filed against Chrissy Payne on Friday.
An arraignment in Brooklyn Criminal Court was pending as of Saturday.
The Home Front
This incident follows established NYPD protocols for releasing surveillance footage to assist in criminal investigations. Such actions serve as a reminder for families to remain vigilant in high-traffic urban areas.
Families should discuss safety plans with children regarding what to do if they are separated from a guardian in public spaces. Ensure children know to stay within arm's reach of an adult when walking on busy thoroughfares like Eastern Parkway.
The takeaway
Maintaining close physical contact with children in crowded city areas remains a primary defense against unexpected public safety threats. Keep your children near you in public and review simple safety protocols with them regularly.
Further reading
For more information on keeping children safe in busy urban environments, visit the Child Care section.
