COLDSPRING — A Coldspring resident is in custody following an alleged kidnapping and a manhunt in an area around San Jacinto County.
On Aug. 18, the San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a kidnapping in progress near the 400 block of Dove Creek Lane in Coldspring. Police reports indicate the caller claimed that the suspect, identified as Justin Walters, forcibly abducted his ex-girlfriend from the residence.
An alert was broadcast to all patrol units in the area, and multiple deputies responded and began actively searching the vicinity. In coordination with regional law enforcement partners, a multi-county bulletin was issued to widen the search.
The suspect vehicle was quickly located by the Huntsville Police Department, whose officers attempted to make contact. Walters exited the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended after a brief pursuit. He was later transferred into the custody of the San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office, transported back to the San Jacinto County Jail, and booked without incident.
Walters has been charged with aggravated kidnapping, assault-family violence, and burglary of a habitation.
Sheriff Sam Houston commended the swift and coordinated response by his deputies and partner agencies.
“Our deputies acted with professionalism and urgency, ensuring critical information was shared quickly with surrounding agencies,” he said. “This type of collaboration is what leads to successful outcomes and, most importantly, keeps our communities safe.”
The San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office extends its gratitude to the Huntsville Police Department, all supporting agencies, and our Communications Team for their immediate assistance in getting the correct information out there.
All individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
