Flagler Sheriff: 11-Year-Old Boy Kidnapped and Tied Up by Suspect
Overview of the Case
A 60-year-old registered sex offender has been jailed without bond after an 11-year-old boy, who was reported missing in St. Johns County, was found with him in Flagler County, according to authorities. Sheriff Rick Staly provided additional details about the incident, revealing that the suspect now faces new charges including kidnapping and aggravated child abuse. Investigators believe the child was held for several days.
In addition to the 11-year-old, a 15-year-old was also found with the suspect. Authorities suggest that this younger individual may have played a role in the crime and is facing multiple charges as the investigation continues.
Details of the Incident
According to a news release from the sheriff’s office, the 11-year-old boy told deputies that Darnell Hairston lured him to a wooded campsite in Flagler Estates. There, he was choked until he lost consciousness. When the boy awoke, he was threatened with a knife, tied up with shoelaces and an extension cord, and had duct tape placed over his mouth. The sheriff's office stated that the boy was kept at the campsite for "multiple days" and was made to hide under a blanket off the floorboard of Hairston's truck during any travel.
The boy was reported missing for at least three days in St. Johns County. While FOX 35 reached out to St. Johns County for more information on their investigation, a spokesperson declined an interview and advised the station to file a public records request for further details.
Sheriff Rick Staly shared that the boy feared Hairston and believed he might be harmed. He also praised the citizen who suspected something suspicious and contacted 911.
Evidence Recovered During Search Warrants
Deputies conducted search warrants on Hairston's vehicle, his home in Hastings, and the campsite. They recovered duct tape, video surveillance equipment, and weapons that were consistent with the child's statements, according to the sheriff’s office.
The sheriff’s office noted that Hairston was aware the child was missing and endangered. Despite law enforcement being on the lookout for the boy, they did not have a clear reason for why he had the child with him.
Role of the 15-Year-Old
Sheriff Staly indicated that the 15-year-old boy found with Hairston may have been involved in the kidnapping. However, no specific details were provided. The 15-year-old is facing an additional charge of grand theft because he did not have permission to take Hairston's truck. He was previously charged with aggravated fleeing and eluding, aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, reckless driving, driving without a license, and resisting an officer without violence.
FOX 35 is not naming the 15-year-old due to his age.
Background of the Arrest
On the morning of New Year's Eve, Dec. 31, a concerned person reported "suspicious activity" to Flagler County deputies. Deputies pulled over a F-150 and found Hairston, the 11-year-old boy, and the 15-year-old boy inside the truck.
The 11-year-old was placed in a patrol vehicle. Hairston attempted to flee from deputies but was quickly tackled and taken into custody. He is accused of attempting to grab a deputy's gun during the struggle.
At the same time, the 15-year-old hopped back in the truck and drove away, nearly running over a deputy who was holding Hairston on the ground. The boy later crashed into the side of one of the deputy's vehicles, causing both to go off the road. The deputy was not hurt, and the truck flipped over.
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