WSFA 12 News Montgomery, AL |Boy Nearly Sexually Assaulted in Montgomery Shopping Center

Boy Nearly Sexually Assaulted in Montgomery Shopping Center

Montgomery, Al. (WSFA) -- We go to stores like Wal-Mart all the time to buy groceries or run errands.

The safety of our children, however, usually isn't the first thing on our minds while cruising the aisles of a local store.

Montgomery police say a Michael Boykins, 35, took advantage of those lowered defenses,  
attacking a 10 year-old boy in the bathroom of the Ann Street Wal-Mart.

Authorities say Boykins fought to rip the boy's pants and shirt off, while the victim's 8 year-old cousin tried desperately to stop him.

"He went outside and brought the mother back inside the bathroom, and she was able to intervene," explained Captain Huey Thornton of the Montgomery Police Department.

News of the crime comes as a complete shock--and a rude awakening--to local families like the Larisceys of Montgomery.

"It has happened in my family, and it's very personal," said Jennifer Lariscey.

With the horrific story, however, comes a shimmer of hope.

When Boykins tried to flee the scene, local patrons tackled the man and held him until police arrived.

It's something father Adam Lariscey says should be common sense.

"You just never know, in this time, what you're dealing with, but you've got to do what's right to protect the ones that are innocent and can't protect themselves," he explained.

Still, police urge parents to keep a close eye on their kids, especially in busy places--advice many parents already take to heart.

"[My daughter's] never out of my sight.  Never," Jennifer Lariscey explained.

NOTE: Police say the victim was unharmed.  The suspect, Michael Boykins, is in the Montgomery County Detention Facility with no bond.  Boykins is charged with 1st Degree Attempted Sexual Abuse.

Stay tuned to WSFA 12 News for more updates as they become available. 

Reporter:  Cody Holyoke