AUSTIN, Texas — A man faces multiple charges after allegedly trying to kidnap an 8-year-old girl in southeast Austin.
Jeffrey Harpster, 36, was arrested Sunday night after Austin police responded to reports of a kidnapping near Lady Bird Lake.
According to an affidavit obtained by KVUE, Harpster approached a family while they were having a picnic. The family gave Harpster food, which he took and left.
Harpster then returned a second time before leaving again. However, when he returned the third time, the father of the 8-year-old noticed Harpster had his focus on his daughter. Police said Harpster jumped over the family's food with the intention of taking the 8-year-old girl.
According to the affidavit, Harpster told the father the 8-year-old girl was his niece. Harpster then became physical during a confrontation and needed multiple people to step in. The family then warned another girl about Harpster after he allegedly tried to approach her.
The Austin Police Department said this was the second time officers were called out regarding Harpster after he allegedly followed two women to their vehicles and tried to get in with them.
Harpster has been charged with felony attempted kidnapping and possession of a controlled substance.