Murphy – A former restaurant chef who got involved in drug use was one of two people who carjacked a Cherokee County driver and drove the vehicle into Tennessee, authorities allege.
Law enforcement was
on the lookout throughout the weekend for Jordan Hedden, 30, of Blairsville, who was believed to be armed and dangerous and on the run.
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Hedden surrendered to authorities in Union County, Ga., on Monday morning. His alleged accomplice was Stephanie Neace, who was arrested and was in custody in Georgia.
The two are facing kidnap and robbery charges.
They were hitchhiking Thursday evening, Nov. 30, in the Moccasin Creek area just over the Georgia state line when they were picked up and kidnapped the
driver, a Cherokee County resident who they forced into the back seat before driving off, authorities allege.
Law enforcement believe Hedden later entered a
Tennessee residence armed with a firearm. Somehow, the firearm was confiscated, and Hedden was last
seen hitchhiking into Georgia.
“If you spot him do not attempt to make contact,” the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office advised. “Call 911 immediately to disclose his appearance and whereabouts. Hedden is believed to be involved in criminal activity and is believed to pose an immediate threat to public safety.”
Hedden was described as 5-feet, 8-inches tall and about 130 pounds. He has green eyes and brown hair and was believed to be traveling on foot or bicycle.
Hedden is on probation in Clay County on a Oct. 31, 2022 conviction of misdemeanor resisting an officer. Officials say Hedden has had problems with drug abuse.