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Father and Son Charged With Kidnapping Two U.S. Forest Service Employees
Joseph Henrichsen, 49, and his son Phoenix, 23, face federal kidnapping charges after holding two female workers hostage for 15 hours at gunpoint in California's Shasta-Trinity National Forest. The victims were released after negotiations, and both suspects surrendered early the next day.
Jul 20, 11:00 PM·1m read1 source
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Joseph Henrichsen, 49, and his son Phoenix Henrichsen, 23, were charged with kidnapping federal employees after two U.S. Forest Service workers were held at gunpoint for 15 hours in a remote trailer, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California said Monday.
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The incident occurred Thursday near Gumboot Lake Campground in Siskiyou County. Joseph Henrichsen approached the two women while carrying an AR-15-style rifle, bound their wrists with zip ties, and forced them into the trailer, according to the criminal complaint.
He used one victim's phone to place calls, including a voicemail in which he stated he had taken the employees hostage and warned of live rounds ready for anyone who interfered.
The message also requested that a federal investigator come to talk, and one victim's voice is audible on the recording. Phoenix Henrichsen is accused of aiding and abetting by keeping watch outside and remaining in the trailer when his father was absent.
Multiple law enforcement officers responded, and after prolonged negotiations the victims were released unharmed and both men surrendered early Friday.
Investigators said the motive remains unclear. If convicted, the Henrichsens face a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $250,000 fine. They were ordered detained at their initial appearance Monday, and a preliminary examination is set for August 3.
