Woman attempts to steal child

MOSES LAKE - A woman reportedly in possession of methamphetamine allegedly attempted to kidnap a 2-year-old child Saturday morning.

Moses Lake Police Capt. Dave Ruffin said Keelyn R. Craig, 21, Waterville, reportedly removed the male child from a vehicle while he was sitting in his safety seat. She reportedly gained entry by opening the backdoor of the vehicle.

After a few minutes, she returned the child to one of the parents, Ruffin said. The child was not physically harmed.

Ruffin said she is not related to the child or his family but she allegedly said the vehicle belonged to her brother-in-law. Ruffin refuted her statement.

Craig was arrested for second degree kidnapping and possession of methamphetamine.

A male subject who was with Craig was also arrested. Their relationship is unclear.

Gideon T. Merchant, 22, Bridgeport, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and a warrant for failure to appear in court concerning charges of driving under the influence and driving while his license was suspended in the third degree.

Ruffin said 14.2 grams of methamphetamine was reportedly found in Craig's and Merchant's vehicle.

It's unclear why Craig took the child from the vehicle, Ruffin said. Her behavior was described as erratic at the time of the incident.

According to the Grant County Prosecutor's Office, Craig was formally charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver, possession of less than 40 grams of marijuana and attempted kidnapping.