3 sought in kidnapping, assault case

Three Utahns are still at large and wanted in a kidnapping and assault Wednesday.

Clearfield City police, in conjunction with Iron County Sheriff's Office, are investigating the case and have released the names of the three being sought: Joseph Godfrey, 18; Tiffany Nelson, 20; and Gary Hart, 22.

Early Wednesday, Godfrey met up with the victim, 17, and a former acquaintance, in Sunset. They ended up at a trailer in Clearfield, where Nelson and Hart were waiting, according to a statement from Clearfield City Assistant Chief Greg Krusi.

Krusi said the three were allegedly involved in drug use during the time spent in the trailer, which was said by the victim to be a couple hours.

The victim was beaten "off and on" throughout the time in the trailer, Krusi said.

Nelson, who is from Cedar City, called Shawn Douglas, who was in Iron County at the time. The victim was bound and transported in the trunk of a red Honda Accord, license plate number 487WPY, to meet Douglas, Krusi said.

Iron County Sheriff's Sgt. Jody Edwards said the victim stated he was hit several times in the face with rocks and that he was kicked multiple times in the head and torso area. The victim also said he was threatened with a knife.

"The juvenile, after being tortured and beaten, was able to escape from his captors and find help from a nearby resident," Krusi said. He gave a good description of the suspects, which led to Douglas' arrest Wednesday in Iron County.

Edwards said the victim stated the beatings were over $180 that he owed Nelson for utilities and rent while they were living together previously in Layton.

Police are still looking for the vehicle and the trio. The victim has returned to his home in Sunset and expected to fully recover. Anyone with information on either the vehicle or the suspects is encouraged to call Clearfield Police Department at 801-525-2806.

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E-mail: wleonard@desnews.com