Airport Police Reunite Mother and Child

Suspect arrested for Interference with Child Custody

TAMPA – Tampa International Airport police arrest 25-year-old Ryan C. Howard for interference with child custody and violation of an Injunction for Protection on Thursday, June 30, 2011. 

Airport Police received information regarding a subject who departed the airport with his two year old child with intent of maliciously keeping the child away from the mother. Records indicated the mother had an active Protection Order against Howard, therefore; an arrest warrant was obtained from the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office for Interference with Child Custody. Officers believed Howard was in route to his home in Colorado. Officers released a regional bulletin to all law enforcement agencies along the possible route of travel for Howard and the child. Airport police detectives began a follow up investigation and discovered Howard’s cellular telephone pinged stationary at a location in rural Georgia. 

Airport Police Detective Luis Flores made contact with law enforcement agencies near Eastman, Georgia, as well as the area hotels and motels. Further investigation revealed a specific address near Eastman and detectives contacted the Dodge County Georgia Sheriff’s Department for assistance. 

The sheriff’s department responded and advised that Howard was located at the residence and immediately arrested. The child was found in good health and taken into protective custody. 

The mother was notified and arrangements were made to reunite the mother and child. Ms. Howard was able take custody of her child after driving to the sheriff’s office on July 2nd. Ms. Howard and her child were both relieved and happy to be back together. The Airport Police Department would like to thank all the law enforcement agencies involved, especially Sheriff Jeff Hinson and his Dodge County officers. 

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