Canton Police review detention of minor during vehicle theft search

The Canton Police Department is reviewing an incident in which a Black minor was handcuffed and detained while officers were searching for suspects involved in a series of Kia and Hyundai vehicle thefts.

During the investigation, a K-9 unit tracked suspects toward Highland Road, where officers encountered the minor on a porch. Despite the child repeatedly stating, “I’m a kid,” he was detained while officers investigated whether he matched a suspect description. The minor was released once officers determined he was not involved.

The primary suspect in the theft investigation, 18-year-old Kenneth Moore Jr., was arrested on Monday. Police noted that Moore had felony warrants, a history of assault, and was suspected of carrying a firearm. The Canton Police Department stated that the incident is under review and emphasized that officer actions should be guided by professional communication and departmental values.