Page County, VA – A fugitive wanted on multiple serious sex offense charges was taken into custody Wednesday after an aerial surveillance operation involving the Virginia State Police and the U.S. Marshals Service.
According to the Virginia State Police, the agency’s Kodiak Aircraft crew assisted federal marshals on Wednesday, January 7, helping locate a suspect who had fled from Michigan and was believed to be traveling through Page County. The Kodiak aircraft, which is based out of Lynchburg, conducted aerial surveillance to identify and track the fugitive’s vehicle.
Once the vehicle was located, U.S. Marshals on the ground moved in and took the suspect into custody without incident, police said.
Authorities said the suspect was wanted on outstanding warrants related to alleged sex offenses, including rape, abduction, and sexual assault. No additional details about the suspect’s identity were released as of Thursday morning.
Virginia State Police noted the arrest highlights the expanding role of its aviation unit. The agency first acquired a Kodiak aircraft in May 2025 and now operates three Kodiak planes statewide, enhancing its ability to assist with fugitive apprehensions, missing persons cases, and large-scale searches.
The Kodiak aircraft is designed for long-range surveillance and can remain airborne for extended periods, giving law enforcement an aerial advantage in rural and multi-county investigations like Wednesday’s operation in Page County.
Officials did not indicate whether additional arrests are expected or if the suspect will face extradition back to Michigan.
Residents who witnessed increased law enforcement or aircraft activity in the area Wednesday are encouraged to contact authorities if they have relevant information related to the case.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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