Published on: February 19, 2026, at 12:24h.
Updated on: February 19, 2026, at 12:24h.
- Las Vegas individual detained for alleged child abduction
- Previously prohibited from Nevada gaming establishments due to sex trafficking
- This charge could result in a life sentence under state regulations
A well-known pimp, previously banned from Nevada casinos for involvement in sex trafficking, was apprehended on Tuesday for allegedly attempting to abduct a child, as reported by Las Vegas Metro Police.
Kendrick Weatherspoon, aged 47, faces several felony charges, including first-degree attempted kidnapping of a minor, enticing a child or mentally ill person, and child abuse or neglect. According to police reports, Weatherspoon attempted to lure a child into a distinctive green sedan with gold rims.
Investigators believe he may have targeted additional victims and are seeking the public’s help to identify witnesses or further victims.
Blacklist Status
In August 2022, Weatherspoon became the first individual added to Nevada’s Black Book, a list of permanently banned persons from all casinos in the state, known for serious offenses, not cheating or mafia affiliations.
Since 2000, he has been involved in over 30 cases within the Las Vegas Justice Court. His extensive criminal history includes drug trafficking, impaired driving, burglary, domestic battery, and more serious charges like sexual assault, kidnapping, and profiting from prostitution. Prior to his permanent ban, he was ejected from at least five casinos in Las Vegas for misconduct.
The Nevada Gaming Control Board unanimously voted to exclude Weatherspoon due to his egregious history of subjecting women to prostitution and violent assaults.
In June 2021, he faced serious allegations in Clark County relating to an incident with an adult woman. According to arrest reports submitted during a 2022 Nevada Gaming Commission hearing, the woman claimed she met Weatherspoon at Casino Royale, where he proposed to “effectively be your pimp” and assist her in earning money through sex work.
When she attempted to leave that lifestyle, she alleged he confronted her at her apartment, choked her, and committed sexual assault.
Regulators aimed to set a precedent with Weatherspoon, asserting he was blatantly using Nevada casinos as the foundation for his illegal activities.
Combatting Sex Trafficking
This decision coincided with an announcement from former U.S. Attorney for the District of Nevada, Jason Frierson, emphasizing that combatting sex trafficking would be a key focus for federal law enforcement in the region.
Nevada ranks among the highest in the U.S. for human trafficking rates, with some reports placing it second highest nationally when considering population adjustments.
Court documents indicate Weatherspoon is scheduled to return to court on February 23 regarding the latest charges, facing potential life imprisonment if convicted.