Three children were taken at gunpoint from a Whitehaven home early Friday, then later located safe, according to Memphis police. Investigators say the children's 18-year-old brother, Jeremiah Jackson, is now wanted in connection with the frightening overnight incident.
MPD's Account Of The Late-Night Abduction
Memphis Police say the ordeal began just after midnight at a home on Hudgins Road near Interstate 55. A babysitter reportedly answered a knock at the door and found Jackson asking for his younger siblings.
According to investigators, a second man dressed in all black and armed with a handgun then kicked in the front door and ordered the babysitter to the floor. Police say Jackson took the three children and the babysitter's cellphone before fleeing. The youngsters were later found safe, according to Action News 5.
Warrant Filed For Brother Jeremiah Jackson
Memphis Police have issued a warrant for 18-year-old Jeremiah Jackson. He is charged with especially aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, aggravated assault and theft of property, according to FOX13 Memphis.
Police released a mugshot credited to the Memphis Police Department and say they are looking for tips that could help track Jackson down.
How To Help Investigators
Memphis Police are asking anyone with information to contact the department or CrimeStoppers. MPD lists 901-545-COPS (901-545-2677) as its nonemergency tip line and CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH on its website. Tips can also be sent through the department's online reporting tools, according to the Memphis Police Department.
What Tennessee Law Says
Under Tennessee law, "especially aggravated kidnapping" is the most serious kidnapping charge. It applies when a deadly weapon is used, a victim is under 13, the victim is held for ransom or the victim suffers serious bodily injury, and it is classified as a Class A felony. That statute is spelled out in Tennessee Code 39-13-305, as published on Justia.
Whitehaven On Edge After String Of Violent Calls
The abduction comes on the heels of other violent incidents in Whitehaven, including a fatal stabbing on Hudgins Road reported just days earlier. Local coverage suggests police have stepped up patrols and are juggling several serious investigations in the area, according to Action News 5.
The investigation into the children's abduction remains active, and police say more information will be released as it becomes available. Anyone with tips on Jeremiah Jackson's whereabouts is urged to contact authorities.
