A woman was rescued from alleged prolonged domestic abuse after leaving a note begging for help in the restroom of a Jersey Mike’s sandwich shop in Navarre, prompting a swift response from Santa Rosa County deputies, authorities said.
The handwritten note, discovered on May 27 by a restaurant employee, identified the woman and claimed she was being held against her will at a nearby residence. Deputies traced the note and, using surveillance footage and prior records, identified the suspect as 34-year-old Jordan Williams, who had a known history with domestic violence cases.
A search warrant was executed at the home, where deputies located the victim. She confirmed she authored the note and described months of repeated assaults, threats with weapons, and forced isolation. She was taken by EMS to a local hospital for treatment of visible injuries, including suspected broken bones.
Williams was arrested on May 28 and charged with multiple felony offenses, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, false imprisonment, battery by strangulation, and other domestic violence-related charges. He was booked into the Santa Rosa County Jail without incident.
Victim receives treatment as suspect faces court appearance
The Sheriff’s Office said the building where the woman was held was searched and secured. Victim advocates from the agency responded to assist the woman, who remains under care.
Santa Rosa County Sheriff Bob Johnson stated, “This case represents the strength of coordinated work by my staff and the bravery of the victim. Thanks to her courage and the deputies’ swift actions, she is now safe and receiving care.”
Williams appeared in court Wednesday for his first appearance to determine bond. Additional court proceedings are expected as the investigation continues.