Ridgeway, VA
August 20, 2024 — In a coordinated effort across multiple law enforcement agencies, the Henry County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant at a residence located at 1106 Jappa Road in Ridgeway early today, leading to the arrest of William Jackson Kennedy, a 44-year-old fugitive.
Kennedy, who had been the subject of an extensive manhunt, was located hiding beneath a mobile home at the address.
According to officials, Kennedy had devised a makeshift hiding spot beneath the home, accessible through a trap door.
The search warrant was issued based on reliable information indicating Kennedy's presence at the location.
Authorities from the Henry County Sheriff's Office, City of Martinsville Police Department, Franklin County Sheriff's Office, and Virginia State Police collaborated in the operation.
Kennedy was apprehended without incident and has been transported to the Henry County Sheriff's Office Adult Detention Center, where he is currently being held without bond.
Kennedy faces a range of serious charges across several jurisdictions:
Henry County Sheriff's Office:
- Probation Violation (Petit Larceny 3rd/Subsequent Offense)
- Probation Violation (Escape Custody)
- Probation Violation (Felony Shoplifting)
- Probation Violation (Felony Elude Police)
- Probation Violation (Possession of Ammunition by a Felon)
- Probation Violation (Breaking and Entering with Intent to Commit Larceny)
- Probation Violation (Grand Larceny)
Franklin County Sheriff's Office:
- Probation Violation (Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances)
- Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule I or II Controlled Substances
- Driving While License Suspended
City of Martinsville Police Department:
- Probation Violation (Two Counts)
Virginia State Police:
- Felony Hit and Run
- Driving While License Suspended
The Henry County Sheriff's Office urges anyone with information about wanted individuals or their whereabouts to contact them at (276) 638-8751 or to report anonymously through Crimestoppers at 63-CRIME (632-7463).
The Crimestoppers Program offers rewards up to $2,500 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals involved in criminal activities, with the reward amount varying based on the crime's nature and the information quality provided.
Authorities commended the collaborative efforts that led to Kennedy’s capture and emphasized their commitment to addressing and resolving such high-priority cases.
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