Kyle Police arrest man with attempted kidnapping of teenager

The Kyle Police Department announced that a Houston man was arrested and charged with attempted kidnapping of a teenager after an investigation that began Monday, Oct. 11.

In a press release Thursday, police stated that the department received a call at 10:24 p.m. on that date in connection to a report that there was a suspicious person in the 200 block of Waterloo Drive. Police stated that its dispatch was “informed that an unknown male was trying to get a 15-year-old female into his vehicle.” The press release noted that the young woman ran to a nearby house seeking help, at which time the homeowner was able to get the teenager safely into the residence, locking the door and calling 911.

According to police, the male who had been seen following the teenager and was later reported to have attempted to enter the residence without success, left the area. Upon arrival, police stated that the homeowner and the young woman were able to provide them with “an accurate description” of the man and the vehicle he was driving. Police said the homeowner showed officers Ring doorbell footage of the man and his vehicle.

The press release stated that using this information, Kyle police officers were soon able to locate in the immediate area both the vehicle and the man wanted in connection to the incident.

Police said an investigation alerted them that the vehicle in question was reported to be one stolen from Houston.

After further investigation, police were able to identify the man as Jerome Ivery, 38, with a Houston address.

Police said Ivery was arrested and later charged with attempted kidnapping, attempted burglary, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and resisting arrest.

“We are incredibly proud of the bravery shown by this young girl in the face of danger. The swift action taken by both her and the resident who provided her safety is admirable and commendable,” said Dr. Jeff Barnett, Kyle Chief of Police. “Our Kyle police officers responded quickly, took decisive action and were able to swiftly apprehend this potentially dangerous suspect. I want to thank our officers, and everyone involved in the incident for their action in preventing further harm.”