Left to right -
Tom Hamilton, CPP, Charles Andrews, CFE,
Deputy Kraig Williamson,
daughter Savannah Williamson,
Captain Michael Richmond,
wife Suzette Williamson
On January 12, 2010, District 2 units responded to a Robbery in progress call at the EZ Loan Money Services business located at 9659 North Beltway 8 East. Deputy Kraig Williamson arrived first on scene and observed the suspect inside the business sitting behind the teller counter waiting for the safe to open due to a time release delay. At the same time, the suspect observed Deputy Williamson through the window and then stood placing a handgun to one of the employee’s head taking her hostage. The suspect then forced the employee out the front door toward Deputy Williamson. The suspect kept her positioned between him and Deputy Williamson utilizing her as a “human shield” while maintaining the position of the handgun to the hostage’s head. The suspect placed the hostage in his vehicle and fled eastbound on Beltway 8.
Deputy Williamson was the primary unit leading the pursuit of the suspect for approximately six miles with speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour. The suspect lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a ditch at the intersection of Lockwood and Garrett Road. The suspect fled into a wooded area east of the intersection. Deputy Williamson searched the vehicle concerned for the welfare of the hostage and preservation of evidence. After the hostage was removed from the vehicle, Deputy Williamson ensured she received emergency medical services from minor injuries due to the crash. Responding deputies apprehended the suspect in the woods approximately 100 yards from the crash. The suspect was charged with Aggravated Kidnapping and Aggravated Robbery.
Deputy Williamson exemplifies the professionalism and commitment to serve the community that is expected of Sheriff’s Office personnel. His quick response ultimately led to the apprehension of a violent criminal and may have prevented additional criminal offenses from occurring in the future by this suspect. Deputy Williamson acted with great professionalism during the confrontation by continually providing information regarding suspect and vehicle description. Deputy Williamson acted without consideration to the imminent threat to his own personal safety while confronting an armed suspect with a hostage. Deputy Williamson should be commended for his actions and receive due recognition for his outstanding efforts.