Registered sex offender accused of trying to kidnap teen girl

Martin Owens arrested at Hollywood home

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. ā€“ A sex offender accused of trying to kidnap a 13-year-old girl was being held on $750,000 bond Monday.

Martin Owens, 76, was arrested in connection with Thursday's attempted kidnapping.

The girl told police she was walking near North 34th Avenue and Farragut Street when Owens tried to pull her into a van, but she bit him and got away.

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Police surrounded the registered sex offender's home on Thomas Street and arrested him Friday.

Neighbors said they were notified when Owens moved to the neighborhood in 2006. They said they feel safer knowing a child predator is behind bars.

Karina MacArthur said her mother warned her about Owens.

"At least she got away," MacArthur told Local 10's Neki Mohan. "I'm happy for that. God bless her."

Nobody answered the door at the home where Owens lives.