Suspects in Omaha kidnapping case held on bond

The 18- and 19-year-old accused of kidnapping two children at gunpoint in Omaha were held on bond after appearing in court.

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Suspects held on $10 million bond in Omaha kidnapping case involving two children

OMAHA, Neb. —

The 18- and 19-year-old accused of kidnapping two children were held on bond during an appearance in court Wednesday.

Juantez Ruffin and James Barnes were charged with two counts of kidnapping, two counts of child abuse, and one count of use of a gun to commit a felony.

Previous coverage: Douglas County Attorney says charges will be refiled against suspects in kidnapping case

Ruffin and Barnes were arrested in June for allegedly forcing two kids into their car at gunpoint.

Omaha police said Ruffin and Barnes tried to involve the boys in a crime and wouldn’t let them go if they didn’t cooperate.

Investigators said they found an AR-15 rifle in the car.

During a preliminary hearing Monday, a Douglas County judge ruled to drop the case against Ruffin and Barnes due to insufficient evidence.

Prosecutors said there was a firearm in Barnes’ fanny pack during the alleged kidnapping.

Ruffin and Barnes were each held on 10% of $10 million bond.

The Douglas County Attorney’s Office said the charges will be directly filed to district court. Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine told KETV that he believes there is probable cause.

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