Domestic Disturbance Leads to Unlawful Imprisonment/Strangulation Arrest in Dayhoit

From the Harlan County Ky Sheriff's Department -

James Runions - HCDC

On Friday May 10th, Deputy Josh Lewis made contact with a female subject who alleged she had been assaulted and held against her will along with her children. Deputy Lewis attempted to make contact with the subject but he fled from the residence.

Later in the evening, HCSO received a call that the male subject was in the woods near the residence with a rifle. Out of precaution the victims were removed from the residence and with the assistance of KSP, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, and Harlan County Emergency Management.

A perimeter was established while a drone was launched in the area. Chief Deputy Jason Adams was able to reach the subject by phone and negotiated with him to surrender. The subject, identified as 35-year-old James Runions, came out of the woodline unarmed and surrendered himself to Chief Deputy Jason Adams and Sergeant Cody Bargo.

James Runions was charged with Strangulation 1st Degree, Unlawful Imprisonment, and Assault 4th Degree Domestic Violence.

This case remains under investigation by Deputy Josh Lewis.