GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A Gainesville kidnapping victim was rescued Tuesday morning by U.S. marshals after Alachua County Sheriff's Office investigators were able to trace the victim to Louisiana, deputies said.
The victim, a City College student, left her classes at 10 a.m. Monday, leaving behind her books, cellphone, purse and other personal belongings. The victim, who is not being named by News4Jax, contacted a classmate a short time later asking her to pick up her young child from a daycare facility in the area, but did not give a reason why or explain how long she would be gone. The victim's friend was able to ask her if she was in danger, and the victim replied with a "Yes" response only. The friend could tell something was not right and contacted the Alachua County Sheriff's Office for assistance.
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Early Tuesday morning, Alachua County deputies assigned to the patrol operations division were able to establish cellphone contact with the victim, who told them that she was injured and being held at gunpoint by her child's father, Curtis Williams. Deputies kept the victim on the phone and traced her phone's location to Harvey, Louisiana.
Alachua investigators and U.S. marshals were able to determine the vehicle that Williams was driving and automated license plate readers were used to locate the vehicle outside a residence in Jefferson Parrish, Louisiana.
U.S. marshals set up surveillance on the residence and Williams was caught shortly after as he left the home. The victim was found inside the home and was treated for her injuries.
Williams faces extradition to Alachua County for kidnapping charges, as well as an outstanding warrant for felony battery that was issued on Aug. 10.