Reward Offered for Information
| FBI Jackson January 22, 2009 |
The Jackson Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Tate County Sheriff’s Office are announcing a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of William (a.k.a. Willie) Willingham. Willingham, age 47, is wanted for kidnaping and rape in Tate County, Mississippi.
On December 22, 1998, Willingham is alleged to have tied up his girlfriend in her bedroom at her residence, then proceeded to the next room to rape her 12-year-old daughter. The girlfriend managed to free herself and went to her daughter’s aid. Willingham then allegedly brandished a knife, forcing the girlfriend back into her room. He then returned to the daughter’s room, continued to rape her, then fled the residence.
On March 4, 1999, Willingham was indicted by a Tate County, Mississippi Grand Jury for statutory rape and kidnaping. A federal arrest warrant was subsequently issued after Willingham was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
Willingham is described as follows:
- Height: 6’1"
- Weight: 180 pounds
- Hair: Black
- Eyes: Brown
- Sex: Male
- Race: Black
- Nationality: American
- Date of Birth used: June 21, 1961
- Place of Birth: Memphis, Tennessee
- Occupation: Welder, Tractor driver
- Scars and Marks: Willingham has the following tattoos on his left forearm - the word GEMINI; a circle with a symbol inside; and a circle with a cross inside.
- He also has two unidentified tattoos on his left bicep.
Remarks: Willingham has ties to Memphis, Tennessee. He may travel to Arkansas and Alabama. He reportedly is a heavy drinker and uses drugs. He is known to carry a 12-inch knife.
Willingham should be considered armed and dangerous.
If you have any information concerning the whereabouts of William "Willie" Willingham, please contact your local FBI Office or the Tate County Sheriff’s Office at 662-582-4434.