Attempted kidnapping investigated in Post Falls

POST FALLS - A 14-year-old girl told police that a man attempted to kidnap her and punched her in the face Friday night.

The alleged incident occurred around 5:50 p.m. in the area of 10th and Spokane streets while the girl was walking southbound.

The girl said a skinny male was driving a newer green four-door passenger car with several dents on the passenger side.

"He got out of the vehicle and attempted to grab her and force her into the car," Post Falls police Chief Scot Haug said. "After he was unable to get her into the car, he struck her in the face and knocked her to the ground. She was able to run away and the male yelled obscenities at her as she took off.

"She said she has never seen him before."

The girl suffered swelling to the face as a result of the incident.

"It was serious enough that the officer called for medical help," Haug said.

The passenger side of the vehicle had a hand-held vanity mirror with a plastic handle attached to the car with tape. It was missing the mirror itself inside the frame. The interior of the vehicle was described as tan with "fuzzy" upholstery.

The male is also described as being in his late 20s, more than 6 feet tall, missing three of his top teeth, having a deep voice and a small cut on the left side of his face above his chin.

The victim told police that several vehicles drove by during the alleged incident and that there were some people walking a block north of her who could have observed it.

Police did not release information about the incident until Tuesday, four days after it was reported. Haug said his department should have notified the public sooner.

Police ask that if anyone sees a vehicle matching the description they should take note of the license plate and report the car as soon as possible.

Those with information can call Post Falls police at 773-3517 or leave an anonymous tip at 777-COPS or www.postfallspolice.com.