A Memphis man is facing serious charges after allegedly attempting to kidnap Mayor Paul Young outside his home on Sunday night.
According to police, 25-year-old Trenton Abston went to the mayor’s residence with the intent to confront and possibly abduct him. Investigators say Abston was armed with a stun gun and carried rope, duct tape, zip ties, and a weighted glove. Surveillance footage from the mayor’s home security system shows Abston approaching the front door. When Mayor Young spotted him on his doorbell camera and came outside to confront him, Abston quickly fled on foot.
Police later located and arrested Abston at his job. In interviews with detectives, he admitted to going to the mayor’s home and said he wanted to “talk” to him. Abston told police he was angry about crime in Memphis and felt the mayor was not doing enough to address it.
Abston has been charged with attempted kidnapping, aggravated criminal trespass, stalking, and unlawful possession of a weapon. At the time of the incident, he was also wanted on two unrelated warrants involving theft.
Mayor Young was not harmed in the incident. He issued a brief statement thanking the Memphis Police Department for their quick response and saying that he remains committed to making the city safer. Memphis police confirmed that there is no further threat to the mayor’s safety.
Court records show Abston is being held without bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for later this month.