SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The South Bend Police Department and St. Joseph County Police report that a suspect who has been wanted in connection to a kidnapping in July of 2024 was recently charged and arrested on Thursday.

Authorities say 52-year-old Vernado Malone posed as a consultant for a company named “United as One" and approached a new mother who was trying to get supplies for her newborn back in July of 2024. 

The victim stated that Malone had her complete “intake paperwork" and services for "domestic violence."

"While at the hospital, a plan was agreed upon for Malone to take the victim to a local store and then to a women’s shelter, where the victim had been accepted and was staying. Malone explained to the victim that he could get her into housing in approximately two months," SBPD said.

"After getting a few supplies, Malone unexpectedly took the victim and her newborn child to Hammond, Ind., telling the victim that she could move into the residence immediately. The residence was later determined to be where Malone had been staying. The victim stated Malone made sexually explicit comments toward her, which left her in fear."

The victim used an opportunity where she was taking the newborn for a walk to contact the Hammond Police Department.

"She then traveled back to South Bend, where she made a report with the South Bend Police Department," SBPD said.

On Jan. 29, Malone was officially charged with:

• Kidnapping where committed by using a vehicle
• Kidnapping where victim is less than 14 years of age

On Feb. 6, Malone was taken into custody by the St. Joseph County Warrants Team and the US Marshals and is currently being held at the St. Joseph County Jail.