Tucson man gets 30 years for kidnapping young girl

A Tucson man already serving 70 years in prison on child pornography charges has been sentenced to another 30 years for kidnapping.

Pima County prosecutors say 34-year-old Steve McPherson was sentenced Monday. He pleaded guilty to attempted sexual conduct, aggravated assault and kidnapping in December.

The Arizona Daily Star says two sisters were walking to Nash Elementary School on Feb. 11, 2010, when McPherson allegedly grabbed the 11-year-old girl, pulled her into his van and drove off.

Witnesses heard the girls screaming, saw the van and got a partial license plate. Within a few minutes, the girl was found in a city park.

Police found the van at McPherson’s house with the girl’s backpack and sweater inside.

McPherson was later indicted in the case on several counts including kidnapping.