Kentucky man pleads guilty to kidnapping, child abduction charges after nationwide manhunt

Jacob Clare sentenced to over 13 years in prison for 2021 kidnapping of 3-year-old son and 16-year-old cousin

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A Kentucky man named Jacob Clare has pleaded guilty to kidnapping and child abduction charges after sparking a nationwide manhunt in 2021 when he kidnapped his 3-year-old son Noah and his 16-year-old cousin Amber Clare. Clare was sentenced to 13 years and 8 months in prison for the crimes, which also led to the passage of "Noah's Law" to help custodial parents get court orders for non-custodial parents to return children.

Why it matters

The case highlighted the need for stronger legal protections for custodial parents and the trauma that can be caused by parental kidnappings, leading to the passage of "Noah's Law" to address these issues. It also demonstrated the challenges law enforcement can face in tracking down suspects who cross state lines during abductions.

The details

In 2021, Jacob Clare kidnapped his 3-year-old son Noah and his 16-year-old cousin Amber Clare, sparking a nationwide manhunt. The three were eventually found in California, where Clare changed his plea to guilty on the kidnapping and child abduction charges. He was sentenced to 13 years and 8 months in prison.

  • In 2021, Jacob Clare kidnapped his 3-year-old son Noah and 16-year-old cousin Amber Clare.
  • In November 2021, the three were found in California after the nationwide manhunt.
  • On March 2, 2026, Jacob Clare pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 13 years and 8 months in prison.

The players

Jacob Clare

A Kentucky man who pleaded guilty to kidnapping his 3-year-old son Noah and 16-year-old cousin Amber Clare in 2021, sparking a nationwide manhunt.

Noah

Jacob Clare's 3-year-old son who was kidnapped along with his 16-year-old cousin Amber Clare in 2021.

Amber Clare

Jacob Clare's 16-year-old cousin who was kidnapped along with his 3-year-old son Noah in 2021.

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What’s next

Jacob Clare also faces charges in Tennessee and Kentucky, but hasn't gone through the court process for those yet.

The takeaway

This case highlights the trauma and legal challenges that can arise from parental kidnappings, leading to the passage of new legislation to better protect custodial parents and children. It also demonstrates the importance of strong law enforcement coordination across state lines to track down suspects in these types of crimes.