Deadbeat Dad Arrested In Sting

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – After fathering two children, John Samples took off, making a few child support payments before disappearing for good.

Kristie Babinsack called KDKA Investigator Andy Sheehan after the courts asked her to temporarily suspend Samples' debt of more than $30,000.

"That was always my issue that he should not be let go simply because he has not worked or because he has hidden for the last two years," Babinsack said.

After the story aired, Samples' running soon came to an end. About five minutes after it aired, the constable on the case contacted Babinsack.

She was also contacted by ex-girlfriends of her ex as well.

Kristie, the constable and the ex-girlfriend arranged a sting. The girlfriend called Samples for lunch.

"They set up to meet at Denny's in Cranberry and the constables waited across the street and when they showed up that's when they arrested him," Babinsack said.

Since then, Samples has been residing in the Allegheny County Jail and at a court hearing, he was sentenced to six months and ordered to pay a minimum of $1,700 child support.

He was asked to be transferred to a work release program where his wages would be attached.

"He's being held accountable, he's being shown that you can only run so far eventually they will find you," Babinsack said.

Child support scofflaws who owe the most money are posted on the Allegheny County Sheriff's website. Kristie urges all single parents to pursue them.

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