FLEMING ISLAND – With the help of a several community tips, quick responses from an off-duty Florida Highway Patrolman and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and a woman who fought to free herself from an attacker, a 22-year-old Middleburg man was arrested and charged with kidnapping.

Jayson Alexander-Izaak Thomas was also charged with attempted sexual assault, burglary and resisting law enforcement after CCSO was called about a woman who was pulled into a nearby woods, where he “began to forcibly remove her clothes.”

According to Sheriff Michelle Cook, the woman was jogging along Tynes Boulevard near Two Creeks when she passed Thomas.

“As she passed by him, the man turned around and grabbed her from behind and pulled her into the woods nearby,” Cook said in a Tuesday night press conference at the agency’s substation.

The sheriff said the victim fought back violently and was able to run to a nearby home, where a resident called 911. Within minutes, CCSO got tips from an off-duty FHP deputy and other residents. In less than 30 minutes of receiving the 911 call, Thomas was in custody.

During the brief chase, Thomas was able to change clothes. He also broke into a home, but he left after he was met by residents.

“Our deputies and detectives immediately responded to the area and began looking for the suspect,” Cook said. “In the process of evading law enforcement, Thomas ran from the woods into a nearby neighborhood cutting through several backyards.”

Cook also credited Deputy Bryon Maylon, who jumped fences while he chased Thomas through several backyards.

She also lauded the victim for having the tenacity to fight her way free.

“Let me just say there's no easy way to describe the courage that it takes to fight back during such a horrifying and frightening situation,” Cook said. “Our victim found that courage and I'm so proud of her. Her strength and bravery is nothing short of remarkable, and it helped bring our suspect to justice.”

Cook said the victim should serve as a template for other victims.

“To anyone else that may find themselves in a similar situation what's your advice? What would you tell them? Fight, scream, poke, prod, kick, bite,” she said. “You know what, I will tell people, anybody if somebody's attempting to abduct you do not go willingly. That never ends well and this woman did just that.”

According to the Clay County Clerk’s Office, Thomas was also found guilty of a 2025 domestic battery, which led to an additional charges on Aug. 12 and Aug. 13 for violating the terms of his probation .

Cook said if anyone has more information, including home alarm videos, to call (904) 264-6512 or visit SaferWatch for Crime Stoppers.

Judge Raymond Forbess ordered Thomas to be held without bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 15.