Man Charged With Attempted Kidnapping Memphis Mayor Amid Rising Political Violence

Trenton Abston, a 25-year-old man, was arrested and charged with attempted kidnapping, stalking, and aggravated criminal trespassing after he scaled a wall and approached the home of Memphis Mayor Paul Young late Sunday night. Abston, who was armed with a stun gun and had gloves, rope, and duct tape in his vehicle, admitted to police that he was angry about crime in Memphis and intended to confront the mayor. Surveillance footage captured Abston knocking on the mayor's door, which caused fear for the safety of the mayor and his family. The Memphis Police Department emphasized their commitment to public safety and swiftly apprehended Abston based on rapid response and video evidence. This incident occurred amid national concerns about violence against elected officials, highlighted by recent shootings of lawmakers in Minnesota. Authorities continue to investigate and ensure the safety of elected officials in the current climate of heightened threats.