FBI Offers $10,000 Reward in Search for William Willingham in Mississippi Kidnapping and Rape Case
Reward for Information
The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of William Willingham, who is wanted in connection with kidnapping and rape charges in Tate County, Mississippi. According to the FBI, the charges stem from a December 1998 attack involving Willingham’s girlfriend and her daughter. A federal arrest warrant was subsequently issued after Willingham was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
December 1998 Attack
According to the FBI, the alleged attack occurred on December 22, 1998, at the residence of Willingham’s girlfriend. Authorities allege that Willingham tied his girlfriend up inside her bedroom before going into another room and sexually assaulting her daughter. His girlfriend was eventually able to free herself and attempted to intervene.
The FBI reports that when the woman went to help her daughter, Willingham allegedly confronted her with a knife and forced her back into her bedroom. He then allegedly returned to the daughter’s room and continued the sexual assault. Willingham later fled the residence.
Knife Allegedly Used During Attack
A knife figures prominently in the allegations against Willingham. According to the FBI account, he allegedly brandished a knife when his girlfriend attempted to intervene during the attack on her daughter. Authorities allege that he used the weapon to force the woman back into her room.
The FBI also reports that Willingham is known to carry a 12-inch knife. This information is included among the identifying and cautionary details authorities have released in connection with the fugitive investigation. Members of the public should not attempt to approach or apprehend him.
Indicted in Mississippi
On March 4, 1999, a Tate County grand jury indicted Willingham on charges of statutory rape and kidnapping. The indictment followed the investigation into the December 1998 incident. Willingham was not brought before the court to resolve those charges and subsequently became the subject of a fugitive investigation.
Federal authorities later became involved after Willingham was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. A federal arrest warrant was issued in connection with that charge. The FBI continues seeking information capable of locating him.
Ties to Memphis
Willingham has known ties to Memphis, Tennessee, according to the FBI. The Memphis connection provides authorities with an important geographic lead outside Mississippi, where the underlying criminal case originated. Individuals who knew or encountered Willingham in the Memphis area may possess information relevant to investigators.
Because decades have passed since the original investigation, information concerning older residences, employment, associates, or other connections may still help authorities reconstruct Willingham’s movements. His appearance may also have changed substantially over that period. Credible information should be provided directly to law enforcement.
Possible Travel to Arkansas and Alabama
The FBI reports that Willingham may travel to Arkansas and Alabama, expanding the potential search area across several Southern states. His connections therefore potentially extend from Mississippi and Tennessee into neighboring states. Authorities are interested in information that could establish whether he has lived, worked, or maintained associates in any of these locations.
Individuals in Arkansas or Alabama who believe they have encountered Willingham may be able to provide useful information. Investigators may also be interested in people who have maintained contact with him since he became a fugitive. Members of the public should allow law enforcement to investigate any possible sighting.
Additional Information Released by FBI
According to the FBI, Willingham reportedly drinks heavily and uses drugs. Authorities also state that he is known to carry a 12-inch knife, a detail that is particularly significant given the allegations surrounding the original attack. These characteristics have been released to assist the public and law enforcement in identifying him.
Anyone who believes they recognize Willingham should exercise caution and avoid direct contact. The outstanding case involves allegations of kidnapping, sexual violence, and the use of a knife. Information concerning a possible sighting should instead be communicated directly to authorities.
Decades-Long Fugitive Case
Willingham has been sought since the criminal proceedings stemming from the 1998 attack, making the investigation more than two decades old. The passage of time does not eliminate the significance of information concerning his whereabouts. Former acquaintances or individuals who encountered him years after the original incident may still possess information capable of helping investigators locate him.
The FBI’s reward remains an important part of the effort to generate new leads. Up to $10,000 is being offered for information leading to Willingham’s arrest. Anyone with relevant information should submit it through official law-enforcement channels.
FBI Seeks Information From the Public
Anyone with information concerning William Willingham, his whereabouts, associates, movements, or activities is encouraged to contact the FBI. Information concerning his connections to Memphis, Tennessee, or possible travel to Arkansas and Alabama may be particularly relevant, and information leading to his arrest could qualify for a reward of up to $10,000. Members of the public should not attempt to approach or apprehend Willingham and should instead provide information directly to law-enforcement authorities.
