Deputy Apprehends Kidnapping Suspect in Towns County Traffic Stop

HIAWASSEE, Ga. — A Towns County sheriff’s deputy apprehended a kidnapping suspect on September 30, following a traffic stop on Highway 17, authorities said.

Deputy Brandon Patterson responded to a be-on-the-lookout alert issued at approximately 9:50 a.m. regarding a male suspect driving a silver Ford Transit van wanted in connection with a kidnapping in Rabun County, Georgia. At around 10:39 a.m., Patterson spotted the suspect’s vehicle traveling north near the Cornerstone store in Hiawassee.

Patterson initiated a traffic stop at Woods Grove Baptist Church and apprehended the suspect without incident, according to the Towns County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Ken Henderson and Capt. Billy Brackett praised Patterson’s alertness and professionalism, stating his actions ensured the swift removal of a violent offender from the community. The sheriff’s office formally recognized Patterson for his heroic act.

“Deputy Patterson’s dedication reflects the highest standards of law enforcement,” Henderson said in a statement.