On Wednesday, April 29, 2026, District 3 patrol officers responded to Touchton Road Park after a women reported a young, black man had grabbed her on the walking path. The teen simulated holding a gun to her back as he tried to take her into the woods. The victim was able to fight the teen off and call for police services. The suspect left the park before the officers arrived.
 
Jacksonville Sheriff's Office (JSO) Special Assault Unit detectives immediately launched an investigation. Alongside the Crime Analysis Unit, Real Time Crime Center, Community Problem Response Unit, and Offender Tracking Unit, detectives continuously worked on the investigation.
 
Two days later, someone who saw the initial battery take place called police after they saw Thomas at the park. The witness was able to identify Thomas as the woman’s attacker, and Thomas was taken into custody.
 
While investigating at Thomas’ apartment complex, detectives learned Thomas had attempted to sexually batter a woman at the complex’s pool earlier in the month.
 
Thomas was interviewed and then arrested for Attempted Kidnapping and Attempted Sexual Battery for his actions at Touchton Road Park and Attempted Sexual Battery for his actions at the apartment pool. All three charges are felonies.
 
To view the post regarding this arrest on JSO's social media platforms, please click on one of the following links: Facebook | Instagram | X