An Orange, Texas man, Putnam Darwin Richardson, has been sentenced to 294 months in federal prison for kidnapping and brandishing a firearm. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on April 9, 2025. Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr. announced the sentencing, underscoring the collaboration of the FBI, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Orange Police Department in rescuing the victim and apprehending Richardson.
"This case serves as a reminder that violent predators come in all shapes, sizes, and age ranges, and to always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings," stated McGlothin. He praised the "quick and outstanding work" of the involved agencies.
FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams highlighted Richardson's underestimation of the agency’s resources, stating, "We are in the business of saving lives, and cases like this are why we exist." Williams expressed gratitude for the FBI Beaumont team’s diligent efforts in rescuing the victim and reiterated the commitment to protecting lives.
Court evidence indicated that on July 15, 2024, a local attorney was kidnapped at gunpoint in Beaumont, Texas. Demanding a $1 million ransom from the victim’s wife, the perpetrator threatened to kill the victim if demands were unmet. Richardson, previously sentenced to 50 years for a 1984 kidnapping conviction, was identified as a suspect. Authorities arrested Richardson at a gas station on July 17, 2024, rescuing the victim.
The case was prosecuted under the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, focusing on violent crime reduction through coordination among federal, state, and local stakeholders. The program emphasizes targeting violent offenders while partnering with community-based programs for sustainable crime reduction. The FBI, Beaumont Police Department, Orange Police Department, and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Reynaldo P. Morin handling the prosecution.