Youngstown, OH – A 25-year-old Ohio man, accused of dragging a woman and her child out of a car, choking her until she passed out, and threatening to kill them, has asked a court for a low bond because he is “about to become a father.” The suspect, James Blackwell, now faces multiple felony charges, including kidnapping and aggravated menacing, according to Youngstown Municipal Court records.
The Incident: Woman and Child Attacked in Broad Daylight
The violent encounter occurred on Monday, around 5 p.m., near Pasadena Avenue and South Avenue in Youngstown, Ohio. Police say the victim, who was driving with her young child, saw James Blackwell nearby when he suddenly shouted, “Where is my money?”
According to investigators, the woman attempted to drive away, but Blackwell followed her vehicle for several blocks before forcing her to stop. He then got out of his car, approached the victim, and threatened to kill both her and her child.
“He dragged her out of her car and choked her until she passed out,” officers wrote in the criminal complaint.
After the assault, Blackwell allegedly stabbed two of the woman’s tires, forcing her and her child into his vehicle. The woman later managed to escape and call 911, leading to a police pursuit. Authorities eventually located and arrested Blackwell while he was driving his car later that evening.
Investigation and Arrest
The Youngstown Police Department said responding officers found the woman injured and visibly shaken after the attack. She reported that she feared for both her and her child’s lives.
Blackwell was taken into custody without further incident and booked into the Mahoning County Jail. Investigators also noted that the defendant damaged the victim’s car and used physical force to intimidate her, fulfilling the conditions for felony kidnapping charges under Ohio law.
Court records confirm that Blackwell faces two counts of kidnapping and two counts of aggravated menacing, with additional evidence being reviewed by prosecutors.
Court Proceedings and Defendant’s Plea for Low Bond
Blackwell appeared in Youngstown Municipal Court on Wednesday, where prosecutors outlined the violent nature of the crime. During the hearing, Blackwell requested a lower bond, claiming he was “about to be a dad” and wanted to be out before the baby was born.
However, the judge rejected his plea, emphasizing the severity of the allegations.
“Given the violent nature of these charges, the court sets bond at $120,000,” the judge ruled.
Records show that Blackwell was already facing separate gun and drug charges from July 2025 and had been released on a $15,000 bond in that earlier case. His new arrest violates that bond agreement, which could increase his potential penalties if convicted.
Blackwell’s next court date is scheduled for December 1, 2025.
Background and Legal Context
Under Ohio law, kidnapping and aggravated menacing are serious felonies carrying potential prison sentences of up to 11 years per count. Legal experts say Blackwell’s prior charges may make it harder for him to obtain future bail.
This case underscores growing concerns in Mahoning County about repeat offenders being released on bond, only to commit additional violent crimes. Prosecutors have urged the court to consider public safety risks in determining bail conditions.
Community and Victim Impact
Neighbors in the area expressed shock over the incident, describing it as a reminder of domestic and street-level violence that can escalate without warning. The victim and her child are now safe and receiving support services.
Police have also reminded residents to immediately report threats or suspicious encounters, especially in domestic or debt-related disputes that can quickly turn violent.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
Authorities are continuing to review evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements, to determine whether additional charges are warranted. Prosecutors have indicated that Blackwell could face enhanced sentencing due to his prior criminal history.
Meanwhile, the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that Blackwell will remain in custody until his December court date unless bond is posted.
Conclusion
James Blackwell, 25, faces a long legal road ahead after allegedly attacking a woman and her child in broad daylight and later pleading for leniency because of impending fatherhood. Prosecutors say his actions demonstrate a clear threat to public safety, and the court’s decision to maintain a $120,000 bond reflects the seriousness of the crime.
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