An Ohio man facing charges, including two counts of kidnapping and two counts of aggravated menacing, allegedly asked a judge for leniency on his bond amount, arguing that he is an expectant father.
James Blackwell, 25, appeared in Youngstown Municipal Court following his arrest this week. Court records show the charges stem from a violent incident on Monday, just before 5 p.m., in Youngstown.
The incident reportedly began when a woman, driving with her child, encountered Blackwell. According to WKBN, Blackwell allegedly shouted, “Where is my money?” at the woman. Though she drove away, authorities say Blackwell pursued her for several blocks.
When the woman eventually stopped, authorities say Blackwell approached her vehicle and threatened to kill both the mother and the child. When the woman argued, Blackwell allegedly dragged her out of the car and choked her until she lost consciousness.
He then allegedly stabbed and flattened two of her tires before forcing both the woman and her child into his own vehicle. Fortunately, the woman managed to escape and call 911, leading to Blackwell’s arrest while he was driving.
During his court appearance for these new charges, Blackwell requested a low bond, telling the judge that he is about to become a father, according to WKBN.
Despite his plea, the court set Blackwell’s bond at $120,000.
Court records indicate Blackwell was already facing gun and drug charges from this past July, in which he had been released on a $15,000 bond.
Blackwell’s next court date is scheduled for December 1st.
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