CLARKDALE, Arizona — Clarkdale Police Department arrested a man tied to an attempted abduction outside Clarkdale Jerome School on March 24, 2025, they reported late Monday. The incident kicked off around 1 p.m. when the guy, described as heavyset, 5 feet 8 inches tall, with dark hair, dark skin, acne, a blue hoodie, and black jeans, grabbed a student’s arm near the soccer field.
It started when witnesses caught him filming in the girls’ bathroom outside the school. A group of girls walked in, and he latched onto one—luckily, she broke free. He bolted, scaling a fence and heading into the woods toward Number One Foods, a nearby store. School staff locked down fast, keeping kids inside until dismissal, with police on hand to get them out safe.
The arrest came quick—less than a day later—thanks to help from Cottonwood Police, Yavapai Apache Nation Police, Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, and tips from folks around town. Police haven’t dropped the guy’s name or exact charges yet, but they’re promising more in a press release soon. For now, he’s in custody, and they’re sorting out the rest.
Clarkdale Jerome’s a K-8 school smack in the middle of this small town off Highway 89A—quiet spot, so this shook people up. The bathroom’s no hideout, just an outdoor setup by the field, making this guy’s move stand out. Anyone with more to say can call 928-634-2921.
