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Man arrested after allegedly kidnapping, assaulting boys

PICAYUNE, Miss., Dec. 19 (UPI) -- Police in Mississippi have arrested a man accused of kidnapping and assaulting two boys, then slashing the throat of one.

James Smith, 41, was arrested Wednesday and charged with attempted murder, sexual assault and kidnapping, GulfLive.com reported.

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Hancock County Sheriff's Department Chief Deputy Don Bass said Smith kidnapped an 8-year-old and a 5-year-old from a residence in Picayune. The older boy's neck was slashed, but he managed to escape and run to a neighbor's house for help.

Bass said the Smith was "an acquaintance of the boys' stepmother."

Smith fled the scene after the boy escaped, Bass said.

"The suspect ran quite a few miles in the woods," Bass said. "There was a couple of creeks he had to have crossed. He had quite a journey through that wilderness."

Deputies apprehended Smith about two hours later.

The 8-year-old was hospitalized after the incident. His condition was not reported.

Bass said more charges may be filed against Smith as the investigation continues.

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