UPDATE: July 18, 2024, 9:45 p.m.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, with the assistance of the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, has safely located Jayanna Clark after more than 18 hours of searching throughout the region.
Detectives found Clark in the 2200 block of 13th Street SW in Largo, with Jahvontae Bell earlier this evening. Clark and Bell were both observed exiting a shed on the side of a residence. Clark was safe and unharmed. Bell was arrested at the scene and taken into custody without incident.
Bell is facing the following charges:
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Armed Kidnapping
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Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon x 4
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Battery
Detectives are conducting interviews with the parties involved to understand what transpired.
"I'm relieved that this woman was found safely this evening," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Now, our detectives will re-trace the steps taken by the suspect today and hold this man accountable."
This is an ongoing and active investigation.
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ORIGINAL: July 18, 2024, 12 p.m.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is currently investigating an armed kidnapping.
On July 18, 2024, at 1:30 a.m., a call came in about a possible kidnapping near the 5000 block of Bordeaux Village Place in Tampa.
Once deputies arrived on the scene, they spoke to witnesses who said they saw a black Nissan sedan pull up and two individuals physically force Jayanna Clark, 25, into the vehicle.
While this investigation is ongoing, detectives have reason to believe Clark was kidnapped by Jahvontae Bell, 26. He currently has a warrant out for his arrest in Pinellas County for Armed Kidnapping for a separate incident.
"We are using every resource available to ensure the safe return of this young woman," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "If you see something or know anything about her whereabouts, please reach out to our detectives."
If you come in contact with Bell do not approach him as he is considered armed and dangerous.
At this time investigators believe this is an isolated incident, and the subjects involved are known to each other.
This investigation is active, and the Public Affairs Office will provide all further information.