Second arrest made after man was beaten and held captive in dog kennel

BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A second arrest made in the case involving a man being held captive in a dog kennel and beaten.

According to Beckley Police, James Demetris Meeks-Little, 28, of Bloomfield, Michigan, has been arrested after he kidnapped a man and held him captive in a dog kennel, beating him.  Early in the investigation, police were able to determine that two suspects were from the Michigan area.  Beckley Police contacted Michigan State Police to get an identification on James Meeks-Little.

The incident occurred on May 22, 2021, on Foster Avenue in Beckley.  A witness told Beckley Police that she had audio of the incident.  The suspect could be heard moaning and whimpering as three other males’ voices taunted him and discussed their intent to cause him further harm.  Near the end of the video, the victim removed the phone from her pocket, and the suspect, Josh Lafferty, can be seen following her to her vehicle and advised her not to call the police.

Police executed a search warrant and found Lafferty and the victim still inside the home.  The victim was observed to be badly injured, suffering from multiple lacerations, contusions, and what appeared to be a broken arm.  The victim was transported to the hospital for his injuries.

During a home search, police found a large dog kennel covered in blood, copious amounts of blood strewn through several rooms, rags, and cleaning materials.  After some treatment, the victim told police that he was being held against his will while the suspects demanded currency payment.  The victim further stated that Josh Lafferty beat him with a shovel at one point during his captivity.

Lafferty was charged back in May with malicious wounding, kidnapping, and conspiracy to commit a felony.  He is being held in Southern Regional Jail.

James Meeks-Little faces charges of malicious wounding, kidnapping, and conspiracy to commit a felony. He is being held in Southern Regional Jail under no bond.