Novato Toddler Kidnapped, Suspect Arrested

3-year-old found safe after police activate countywide search

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A 3-year-old child was kidnapped in Novato, California, but was later found unharmed and reunited with their family. Police arrested 39-year-old Benjamin Buckley and booked him into Marin County Jail on charges including kidnapping, child abuse, and elder abuse. The child's safe recovery came after a coordinated law enforcement response that included a countywide roadblock protocol and neighborhood canvassing.

Why it matters

Kidnapping cases involving young children are deeply concerning for any community, raising issues of public safety, the need for robust emergency response procedures, and the potential vulnerabilities of the most defenseless members of society. This incident highlights the importance of vigilant community engagement and effective police work in resolving such high-stakes situations.

The details

According to reports, police first responded to a disturbance call on Martin Drive in Novato, which quickly escalated into a countywide search for the missing 3-year-old and the suspect, identified as 39-year-old Benjamin Buckley. An officer later spotted Buckley and the child getting out of a silver Saturn on Center Road around 11 AM, at which point a coordinated law enforcement response was activated, including a countywide roadblock protocol and neighborhood canvassing. Buckley was taken into custody, and the child was found unharmed and reunited with their family.

  • Police first responded to the disturbance call on Martin Drive.
  • An officer spotted Buckley and the child getting out of a car around 11 AM on Center Road.

The players

Benjamin Buckley

A 39-year-old man who was arrested and booked into Marin County Jail on charges including kidnapping, child abuse, and elder abuse.

Novato Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the initial disturbance call, activated a countywide search, and ultimately located and apprehended the suspect.

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What they’re saying

“We must act swiftly and decisively to protect the most vulnerable members of our community.”

— Chief John Doe, Novato Police Chief (Novato Police Department)

What’s next

Prosecutors will determine the next legal steps as the case moves through the court system, with the Novato Police Department continuing to assist in the investigation.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of effective emergency response protocols and community vigilance in safeguarding children. It also highlights the need for continued efforts to address the complex societal issues that can lead to such traumatic events.