LAPLACE — A local man was one of four people arrested Thursday in St. John the Baptist Parish for kidnapping.

Louisiana State Police Troop B Spokeswoman Melissa Matey said the kidnapping involved a Lafayette man.

The initial incident began Wednesday when a male victim was taken hostage by several unknown assailants in the Thibodaux area and brought to a residence in Thibodaux, Matey said, adding the victim was restrained, held against his will and beaten overnight.

The St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office became aware of the kidnapping Thursday, and Matey said deputies attempted to locate the victim and assailants.

“Through investigative measures, investigators were able to locate a possible residence where the victim was being held,” Matey said.

“Deputies and members of Louisiana State Police SWAT conducted surveillance on the residence and observed a group of men outside. The group of men left the residence in separate vehicles and were followed by investigators. While attempting to perform traffic stops on the suspect vehicles, the vehicles fled. Officers pursued the vehicles and were able to detain four subjects, as well as locate the victim.”

The following suspects were booked into the St. John the Baptist Parish jail in Laplace:

• Erin D. Carter, 32, of LaPlace
• Jordan A. Jackson, 26, of Schriever
• Daron D. Nolan, 21, of Thibodaux
• Herbert L. Woolens, 19, of Monroe

Matey said more arrests are anticipated.