An Alabama woman broke free from a man authorities say kidnapped and sexually assaulted her by fleeing into a Mississippi convenience store, prompting his arrest and a growing list of felony charges, according to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department.
Deputies were called to a Circle K gas station in St. Martin, Mississippi, around 9 a.m. on a Thursday after employees reported a woman had run inside seeking help. Investigators say the victim told them she had been abducted from her home in Alabama by her ex-boyfriend, identified as Melvin Hill, and sexually assaulted in more than one jurisdiction as he transported her across state lines.
The woman was able to break away from Hill once they stopped at the store, running inside and alerting workers to what was happening, according to the sheriff’s department. Store employees then contacted law enforcement.
Deputies located Hill nearby as he was allegedly attempting to make his way back toward Alabama. He was taken into custody without incident, authorities said.
Hill was booked into the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department’s Adult Detention Center, where he faces charges of kidnapping, motor vehicle theft and sexual battery. The sheriff’s department said additional charges are expected to be filed in neighboring jurisdictions as the investigation continues, meaning Hill could ultimately face prosecution in more than one state given the cross-border nature of the alleged crimes.
Cases involving domestic or dating violence that cross state lines can be especially complicated to prosecute, since law enforcement agencies in multiple jurisdictions may need to coordinate on evidence and charges. Advocates for survivors of domestic violence note that abductions by current or former intimate partners are among the most dangerous situations victims can face, and that reaching a public place — as the victim in this case did — can be a critical, lifesaving step.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department said the investigation remains active. Anyone with additional information related to the case is encouraged to contact investigators.