Arrest Made In Kidnapping and Assault of DoorDash Delivery Driver

Photo byTampa Police Department

TAMPA, Fla. – A man accused of kidnapping and sexually assaulting a DoorDash driver last week is now in police custody.

According to a news release issued by the Tampa Police Department, the incident occurred just after 11:00 p.m. on April 18, 2023. The victim, a female in her early 20s, was forced back into her car as she was making a delivery to the Tampa Residence Inn.

The suspect, armed with a gun, forced the victim to drive 6 miles to the Belara Lakes Apartments, where he sexually battered her. The victim's family, who had been tracking her phone, arrived at her location to rescue her. Before fleeing the scene, the subject opened fire on the family members, striking a female in her 20s.

According to police, both victims were taken to a nearby hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening.

The next morning, a robbery took place in the 2100 block of Cool Springs Road, inside the Belara Lakes Apartments complex. The suspect threw a female victim to the ground before punching her and stealing her backpack.

By gathering evidence and speaking to witnesses, detectives working both cases determined they were looking for the same subject.

On Friday, April 21, police identified and arrested 38-year-old Joseph Killins, charging him in relation the April 18 kidnapping and the April 19 robbery.

Photo byTampa Police Department

“This criminal is now off the streets thanks to the tireless efforts of every Tampa Police Department employee and the assistance provided by members of our community,” said Interim Chief Lee Bercaw.

Killiins has been charged with Armed Kidnapping, Robbery with a Firearm, Armed Sexual Battery, and Aggravated Battery with a Weapon in the events of April 18. He is charged with Robbery in the events of April 19. He is currently being held at Orient Road Jail.

According to Tampa Bay news station FOX13, Killins made his first court appearance on Monday and asked to be released on bond. The bond hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, April 26, before Judge Catherine Catlin.