Los Angeles man arrested for alleged attempted kidnapping at Culver City park

Suspect approached child at playground and tried to lure them away before bystanders intervened

Apr. 7, 2026 at 11:39pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a playground swing, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.A harsh, gritty close-up of a playground swing serves as a somber reminder of the need for vigilance in public spaces.Los Angeles Today

A 57-year-old Los Angeles man was arrested by Culver City police last week for an alleged attempted child abduction that occurred at Fox Hills Park. According to authorities, the suspect approached a 4-year-old child at the playground and tried to lure the child away from their parent, but was stopped by quick-acting bystanders who assisted the parent and alerted police.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and rapid police response in protecting children in public spaces. While authorities say this appears to be an isolated event, it underscores the need for parents and caregivers to remain alert and report any suspicious activity immediately.

The details

Police were called to Fox Hills Park just before 12:55 p.m. last week for reports of an attempted kidnapping. Witnesses described the suspect as an adult male wearing a red hoodie, who was last seen near the southwest part of the park. According to investigators, the suspect approached the 4-year-old child at the playground and tried to lure the child away by telling them to come with him. The child's parent immediately noticed the interaction and moved to intervene, and another bystander also approached to assist. When the two adults approached, the suspect then left the park.

  • Police were called to Fox Hills Park just before 12:55 p.m. last week.

The players

Marlo Jeffrey Hampstead

A 57-year-old Los Angeles man who was arrested and charged for attempted kidnapping.

Culver City Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident at Fox Hills Park and arrested the suspect.

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What they’re saying

“According to investigators, the suspect approached a four-year-old child at the playground and attempted to lure the child away from their parent by telling the child to come with him.”

— Culver City Police Department

“At no time was the child physically taken or harmed.”

— Culver City Police Department

What’s next

The suspect, Marlo Jeffrey Hampstead, was arrested and charged for attempted kidnapping. He is currently in custody, and the case will proceed through the criminal justice system.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder for parents and caregivers to remain vigilant when in public spaces, and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the authorities. The quick actions of the bystanders and the rapid police response likely prevented a much more serious outcome.