Man Charged in Florida Child Kidnapping Plot

Devontay Shields, a 35-year-old man from Danville, Illinois, was arrested at Chicago's Union Station while attempting to board a train to Miami, allegedly to kidnap a child from a private school in Fort Lauderdale for a $100,000 ransom. The investigation began when a cooperating individual informed Homeland Security Investigations about Shields' plans to abduct a child, which he discussed in detail with individuals unknowingly working with law enforcement. Shields reportedly purchased toys, zip ties, and a BB gun in preparation for the abduction, and communicated his intentions through text messages, stating he needed the ransom money to facilitate the kidnapping. During an audio-recorded meeting, he expressed his plan to lure a child with candy and toys and indicated his knowledge of the school's wealthy parents. Shields remains in federal custody, facing charges of attempted kidnapping, and could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted. His preliminary hearing is set for November 25.