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Man Arrested After Attempted Kidnapping At Lowell YMCA

LOWELL (CBS) – Police are investigating the attempted abduction of a two-year-old child in Lowell.

It happened early Tuesday evening at the Lowell YMCA. A Lowell Sun Reporter captured images of the suspect being led away in handcuffs.

The newspaper reports 21-year-old John Dasilva allegedly grabbed the child by the arm and started walking away before being confronted by the toddler's mother.

The suspect reportedly told the mother the child was his, but police arrested him and charged him with attempted kidnapping.

Kevin Morrissey, the director of operations at the YMCA, says the man was apparently disoriented. He is proud of the way the staff handled the situation.

"Staff immediately intervened, called the police and ensured the safety of the child," Morrissey said. "At the YMCA the safety of all is our top priority and we commend the police and our staff for their quick actions."

Dasilva will be arraigned on Wednesday.

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