Multiple Police Agencies Respond To Thonotosassa Kidnapping

THONOTOSASSA, FL — It took multiple police units to take a 45-year-old Thonotosassa man into custody Thursday after deputies accused him of aggravated battery and kidnapping that happened Tuesday at his home.

The victim visited Robert Kriska at his house in the 9000 block of Ohio Avenue, Thonotosassa, Tuesday, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. During the visit, the suspect accused the victim of stealing something from him. Kriska contacted the victim's friends later and told them they they would have to pay him before he released the victim from his home.

According to authorities, Kriska hit the victim multiple times with his hands and with a piece of wood. In addition to that, he pointed his gun at the victim and made threatening statements. After Kriska fell asleep that night, the victim escaped in the early morning hours of Wednesday, June 2, and then called law enforcement officials.

Investigators got an arrest warrant for Kriska and a search warrant for his house Wednesday. Detectives said they activated SWAT, bomb team, crisis negotiation and undercover units because of Kriska's violent history, which includes SWAT callouts. Kriska was arrested on charges of kidnapping and aggravated battery without incident by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office SWAT. Plant City Police Department also assisted.

"When you're dealing with such a dangerous suspect, it's unclear how an arrest like this one will play out," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "Thankfully, this is the best possible outcome in such a critical situation. He is now back off of our streets thanks to the well-planned effort between several units who helped take him into custody."