HCSO searching for kidnapping suspect; victim rescued in Inverness
Suspect Cody Jackson, 31. Mugshot courtesy of HCSO.
According to a HCSO press release, about 11:00 am on Sunday, a physical altercation occurred between Jackson and the victim at a residence located on King Charles Circle in Seffner, during which Jackson grabbed a piece of wood and struck the victim with it, causing serious injuries to her head and body. Jackson forced the victim into a 2003 silver Mitsubishi Eclipse and drove away. At some point, Jackson stopped the vehicle and bound the victim's ankles and wrists with extension cords.
Jackson drove the Eclipse to a Citgo gas station in Inverness, Florida. When Jackson left the victim unattended while he went inside the convenience store, the victim freed herself from the restraints. According to several news interviews, the store clerk said that the victim begged her for help at a side door, so she unlocked the door, helped the victim inside the store, and then locked the door, and when Jackson realized that the victim had escaped, he fled in an unknown direction. The vehicle was later located in Tampa, Florida, near the intersection of U.S. Hwy. 41 North and Sunset Lane.
The victim was transported to Citrus Memorial Hospital in Inverness, Florida for medical treatment.
“This man's actions are reprehensible," said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. "He was threatening this victim's life, and it could have ended in tragedy had the victim not managed to escape, just in time. This attack was targeted. However, given Jackson's violent behavior, we are urging anyone who comes in contact with him to please call us immediately. Please do not engage with the suspect, for he may be armed with a weapon."
Anyone with information as to Mr. Jackson’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at (813) 247-8200.