Seffner Kidnapping Suspect Wanted By Sheriff's Office

SEFFNER, FL — A kidnapping suspect who is accused of beating and kidnapping a victim in Seffner Sunday morning is wanted by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.

Cody Jackson, 32, and the victim were at a home in the King Charles Circle area. At 11 a.m., Jackson and the victim got into a fight, and he hit the victim on the head with a piece of wood, detectives said. Afterward, he forced the victim into a 2003 silver Mitsubishi Eclipse, and drove away. He later stopped the car and tied the victim's ankles and wrists with extension cords, according to investigators.

Jackson drove to a Citrus County gas station, and while he was inside the store, the victim broke free from the restraints and asked for help. When Jackson realized the victim escaped, he drove away. The car was later found near the intersection of U.S. Highway 41 North and Sunset Lane in Tampa, deputies said.

“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," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "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."

Jackson is 5-feet-9, 165 lbs and has numerous tattoos, including one that reads "Pure Bred" on his stomach, police said.

The victim was transported to Citrus Memorial Hospital with serious injuries, authorities said.

Anyone with information on Jackson’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at (813) 247-8200.