Local News
Local fugitive on America’s Most Wanted
Man wanted on child solicitation charge
Kokomo police are using the America’s Most Wanted Facebook page to help apprehend a local fugitive.
KPD investigators said Monday that on April 1, 2009, Kenneth Pettiford, of Muncie, traveled to Kokomo in hopes of meeting a 15-year-old child for sex. He was met by KPD investigators conducting a sting operation. Police said Pettiford cooperated in the investigation and subsequently surrendered himself when a warrant was issued.
However, Pettiford failed to appear for a Nov. 13 court date on a felony child solicitation charge, and a second warrant was issued. Pettiford has not been seen since.
In response, police were given permission to post Pettiford’s information on the Web site and Facebook page of the popular TV program “America’s Most Wanted.” The tactic has worked before for the KPD. In 2008, Mark Ellerbrock fled after reportedly being caught soliciting a “child” for sex and was featured on the Web site. Two days later, Ellerbrock returned from hiding in Kentucky and surrendered himself at the Kokomo Police Department, police reported.
Pettiford is 49, with a shaved head and brown eyes. His profile is available online at www.amw.com or http://www.facebook.com/1800crimetv
Anyone having further information regarding this or any investigation is asked to contact the Kokomo Police Hotline at 456-7017, or you may qualify for a cash reward by calling Central Indiana Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS with your anonymous tip.
• Scott Smith is a Kokomo Tribune staff writer. He may be reached at 765-454-8569 or via e-mail at scott.smith@kokomotribune.com
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