July 31, 2026

Man enters Alford plea in attempted Ky. child kidnapping case

 (WKYT) – A South Carolina man accused of attempting to kidnap a child has entered an Alford plea in the case.

Kentucky State Police said Willie Bethea tried to get a child to leave the playground of Whitley County Intermediate School with him in August 2024. Officers later arrested Bethea at the Corbin Walmart.

Willie Bethea
 

An Alford plea means a defendant maintains their innocence but admits the prosecution has enough evidence to likely secure a conviction.

Bethea also has prior charges of attempted murder and kidnapping. He is scheduled to be sentenced April 20.