Police searching for kidnapping suspect who hit victim during abduction

SEFFNER, FL – Authorities are searching for a suspect who beat a victim with a piece of wood and force the victim into his vehicle. The victim was able to eventually escape, but the suspect fled and now a manhunt is underway.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department said in a release, they searching for a man who physically battered and kidnapped a victim, before they were ultimately able to escape and seek help.

On Sunday, May 9, 2021, at approximately 11:00 a.m., a physical altercation between Cody Jackson, 32, and the victim took place at a residence located at King Charles Circle in Seffner. At one point, Jackson grabbed a piece of wood and struck the victim on the head, causing serious injuries to the victim’s head and body.

Jackson forced the victim into a 2003 silver Mitsubishi Eclipse and drove away. At some point, he stopped the vehicle and tied the victim’s ankles and wrists with extension cords. Jackson drove to Citrus County and stopped at a Citgo gas station in Inverness.

While Jackson went inside the convenience store, the victim was able to break free from the restraints and ask for help. Upon noticing the victim had escaped, Jackson fled in an unknown direction. The vehicle was located near the intersection of US 41 North and Sunset Lane in Tampa.

The victim was transported to Citrus Memorial Hospital where they are receiving medical treatment. “This man’s actions are reprehensible. He was threatening this victim’s life and it could have ended in tragedy had the victim not managed to escape just in time,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “This attack was targeted. However, given Jackson’s violent behavior, we are urging anyone who comes in contact with him to please call us immediately. Please do not engage with the suspect, for he may be armed with a weapon.” Anyone with information on Jackson’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at (813) 247-8200.

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