HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – A known violent offender to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office was taken into custody yesterday on charges of kidnapping and aggravated battery.
Deputies say that on June 1, the victim was visiting the home of Robert Kriska, 45, on the 9000 block of Ohio Avenue in Thonotosassa.
At some point, Kriska accused the victim of stealing property from him and took the man hostage. Deputies say that Kriska later contacted friends of the victim and demanded payment for the victim’s release.
Kriska struck the victim multiple times using his bare hands and a piece of wood. Deputies say he also made threatening remarks and pointed his firearm at the victim.
Investigators say that once Kriska fell asleep for the night, the victim was able to escape during the early morning hours of June 2 and called to report the incident to Hillsborough County Sheriff.
Deputies obtained an arrest warrant for Kriska on the kidnapping and aggravated battery charges.
On June 3, they also obtained a search warrant for Kriska’s home. Because of Kriska’s extensive violent history, which includes multiple SWAT and Crisis Negotiation Team callouts, and his past threats to law enforcement, HCSO activated multiple units to take him into custody, which included SWAT, the Crisis Negotiation Team, Bomb Team, K9, and undercover units.
Kriska was taken into custody by HCSO’s SWAT without incident. The Plant City Police Department also assisted with the execution of the search warrant.
“When you’re dealing with such a dangerous suspect, it’s unclear how an arrest like this one will play out. Thankfully, this is the best possible outcome in such a critical situation,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “He is now back off of our streets thanks to the well-planned effort between several units who helped take him into custody.”
Kriska has previously been arrested on charges that include aggravated battery, aggravated assault, and grand theft. He remains in jail without bond.
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