Suspect Arrested in Attempted Child Abduction

Champaign Police say they have arrested a suspect in connection with one of several attempted child abductions reported in the city over the last several days.

Billy Wayne Mullins, 54, of Champaign's Dobbins Downs neighborhood is being held at the Champaign County Jail on attempted child abduction charges.

Authorities say Mullins was arrested Wednesday in connection with an attempted abduction at the Dobbins Downs Playground last Thursday evening. At that time, a 13-year-old girl said she was approached by a man on a bicycle, who offered candy if she would come to his home to help with groceries. The man rode away on his bicycle when the victim called out to a friend.

Champaign Police say they are continuing their investigation into the other attempted abduction reports, most of which involved men attempting to lure a child into their vehicle.

UPDATE: Mullins was in Champaign County Court Thursday afternoon, and formally charged with a count of child abduction, a Class 4 felony. Julie Ogle with the State's Attorney's Office says bond for Mullins is set at $250,000. He'll be back in court October 21st.