May 15, 2024

Two rural Kan. men accused of violence in dating app scam

Posted May 15, 2024 2:00 PM
Dodds-photo Shawnee Co.
Dodds-photo Shawnee Co.

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after an incident at a residence in southeast Shawnee County.

Just after 1a.m. May 11, sheriff's deputies began investigating a report of kidnapping and robbery at a residence in the 3700 block of SE 23rd Terrace, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

Deputies learned that, in two separate instances, individuals had gone to the residence expecting to meet a person they had been corresponding with through an online dating app.

Miller photo Shawnee Co.
Miller photo Shawnee Co.

The victims advised that when they arrived at the residence they were taken to the basement and held against their will by armed individuals demanding money. Deputies learned that one victim was forced to accompany the assailants to an ATM machine to withdraw money, and a second victim was released after convincing the armed suspects that they did not have any money. Both victims called 911 after being released.

Jackson C. Miller, 19, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of aggravated robbery, robbery, two counts of aggravated assault, kidnapping and interference with law enforcement. Miller also had multiple active warrants for his arrest.

Craig W. Dodds Jr., 19, of Holton, was arrested and booked on two requested charges of aggravated assault and two counts of robbery.