KENNETT SQUARE, PA — The Kennett Square Police Department has issued an arrest warrant for Roberto Lainez following his absence from a scheduled preliminary hearing on September 9, 2024. The hearing was set to address charges stemming from an incident on June 19, 2024, in Kennett Square Borough, where Lainez is alleged to have given false identification to law enforcement.
On the evening of June 19, local officers were dispatched to investigate a suspicious situation near E. South Street and S. Walnut Street. A caller reported a Hispanic male, approximately 30 years old, attempting to engage with children in their backyard. The suspect was last seen walking west on E. South Street. Officers arrived promptly, locating a man matching the description, who was later identified as Roberto Lainez. Initial interactions revealed a strong scent of alcohol on Lainez, accompanied by noticeable instability in his posture.
During questioning, Lainez purportedly identified himself as “Roberto Vasquez.” Subsequent investigations revealed this to be a false identity. Consequently, Lainez was taken into custody on charges of False Identification to Law Enforcement, Public Drunkenness, and Criminal Trespass. He was later transported to Central Booking at Chester County Prison.
Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Lainez’s failure to appear in court has now escalated the situation, leading to the issuance of a warrant for his arrest. Authorities now seek the cooperation of the public in locating Lainez, described as a 24-year-old Hispanic male, standing 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing approximately 160 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.
The police are urging anyone with knowledge of Lainez’s whereabouts to contact the Kennett Square Police Department at 610-444-0501 or to submit a tip online. It is imperative to remember that all allegations against Lainez remain unproven in a court of law, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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