JEANERETTE, La. — Two men from New Iberia are facing multiple serious charges after a pregnant woman was reportedly kidnapped and thrown from a moving vehicle in a Jeanerette neighborhood on May 26. Community members stepped in to assist the victim before police arrived, leading to the men’s arrests.
Officers identified the suspects as Brett Michael Phillips, 34, and Chris Adam Phillips, 36, both of New Iberia. Following the incident, they were taken into custody and booked at the Iberia Parish Jail. The situation prompted a thorough investigation by local police, who are treating it as both a kidnapping and domestic abuse case.
The disturbing episode reportedly began around 6:26 p.m. on Katherine Street, where residents witnessed the victim being thrown from the vehicle. By the time officers arrived, neighbors were already aiding the woman, who provided crucial information about her assailants. While police have not disclosed the woman’s name, age, or the full extent of her injuries, they confirmed she was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Authorities revealed that the woman had a dating relationship with one of the suspects, although they did not specify which man that was. The relationship between the two suspects, who share a surname, remains unclear as police did not confirm if they are related. Investigators credited tips from the public and collected evidence for leading them to the suspects.
Brett Phillips faces multiple charges, including domestic abuse battery against a pregnant victim, second-degree kidnapping, attempted first-degree feticide, reckless operation of a vehicle, and driving without a valid license. Chris Phillips has been charged as an accomplice to similar offenses, which include kidnapping, attempted feticide, and failure to assist the victim. These charges underscore the gravity of the situation, as Louisiana law defines second-degree kidnapping as the forcible transport of an individual under various serious conditions.
The case has invoked a significant community response, with residents playing a critical role in the initial rescue efforts. While police have not provided details about any evidence, such as surveillance footage or witness testimonies, they noted that concerned citizens aided in identifying the suspects.
Both men were booked initially at the Juandre Gilliam Law Enforcement Center and subsequently moved to the Iberia Parish Jail. As of now, no court dates have been announced, and it is unclear if either suspect has legal representation. The investigation remains open, with authorities assessing evidence and preparing for possible court proceedings.
As community concerns rise, residents are left to grapple with the implications of such violence in their neighborhood. The ongoing investigation aims to clarify the circumstances surrounding this troubling incident and ensure justice for the victim.