Warner Robins kidnapper caught with victim at McDonald’s in 2024, sentenced to 25 years in prison

WARNER ROBINS — A Warner Robins man is facing decades of jail time after a 2024 kidnapping when he was caught with a child he took to a McDonald’s. 

Richard King, 63, was sentenced following a jury trial on July 14, according to a media release from the Houston County District Attorney’s Office. He faces 25 years in prison, followed by life on probation for the kidnapping charge.

The incident occurred on October 17, 2024, when King abducted a then-five-year-old boy from a school bus stop at the Lake Vista Apartments on Northlake Drive in Warner Robins. King and the child were located one hour later at the McDonald’s at 1879 Watson Boulevard.

A manager and a customer noticed that the child did not appear to be related to King. They kept an eye on the boy to ensure his safety while contacting law enforcement. 

Warner Robins police arrested King at the fast-food restaurant, and it was confirmed that he was not related to the child. The child was not injured during the incident.

Assistant District Attorney Elizabeth McDaniel, who prosecuted the case, praised the actions of the McDonald’s employee and the customer, describing them as courageous and reflective of the community’s values.

“This is one of those cases that you think only happens on television. There are members of our community who would be shocked to hear that something like this happened right here in Houston County. However, this is also one of those cases that reminds you just how wonderful our community is,” McDaniels said in a statement.

District Attorney Eric Edwards said that the actions of the manager and the customer likely prevented a tragedy.

“This case had the potential to become every parent’s worst nightmare. Thankfully, because of the vigilance and compassion of two ordinary citizens who trusted their instincts and took action, a five-year-old boy was safely recovered before he was harmed,” Edwards said.

He also said the situation serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration.

“Public safety is truly a community effort. Law enforcement cannot be everywhere at once, but when attentive citizens and dedicated officers work together, lives are protected,” Edwards said. “Because of those Good Samaritans, this story ended with a child safely reunited with his family rather than as a far greater tragedy.”

The Houston Home Journal reached out to the Warner Robins Police Department for an incident report but did not receive a response before deadline.