Woman convicted of kidnapping after attack at boutique in downtown Fort Myers

FORT MYERS, Fla. —

A woman was convicted of kidnapping after attacking a boutique store manager in downtown Fort Myers.

On Aug. 12, 2024, Sydney Lenora Seaton, 25, entered the store while the manager was working alone. According to the State Attorney's Office, Seaton was behaving unusually, dancing provocatively and moving items around.

Seaton was asked to leave, but she didn't and instead attacked the manager. Officials said Seaton punched, kicked and even body-slammed the manager into furniture. According to the news release, Seaton dragged the victim by their hair and used a large metal bar cart to pin them down.

She then ripped the victim's shirt open and tried to take their jewelry. According to the State Attorney's Office, Seaton didn't remove the cart until the victim agreed to go back into the store with her.

The victim then ran to the front door when they had the chance and screamed for help before Seaton grabbed them again.

However, a bystander heard the screams and came over. Seaton released the victim, and authorities were called. Seaton was arrested by Fort Myers police officers.

Seaton's sentencing is scheduled for April 6, the State Attorney's Office said.

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