Authorities in California’s Central Coast have apprehended a man suspected of murdering his 90-year-old father. The suspect, James Smallwood, has been arrested in Switzerland and is currently awaiting extradition to the United States to face charges.
The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office confirmed on Thursday that 54-year-old James Smallwood was taken into custody on May 29, linked to the death of his father, Robert Smallwood. The investigation kicked off after family members reported the elderly man missing on May 18, unable to reach him for several days.
Detectives, alongside the sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team, conducted a thorough search of Robert Smallwood’s property in Scotts Valley on May 19. Their efforts led to the grim discovery of a deceased individual later identified as Robert. An autopsy revealed that the cause of death was homicide.
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Following the discovery, a joint investigation by Santa Cruz County detectives and the District Attorney’s Office quickly pointed to James Smallwood as the prime suspect. Authorities reported that he had been living with his father and fled to Switzerland prior to the discovery of the body.
U.S. authorities, in collaboration with the Swiss government, were able to locate and arrest James Smallwood. Although details regarding the arrest remain scarce, the prompt action from the involved parties was crucial in apprehending the suspect.
In their announcement, the sheriff’s office expressed gratitude to the Search and Rescue Team, the District Attorney’s Office, the Forensics Unit, and both U.S. and Swiss authorities for their vital cooperation throughout the investigation. This case underscores the importance of teamwork among various law enforcement agencies in addressing serious crimes.
James Smallwood is currently in custody in Switzerland while extradition proceedings are initiated. Upon his return to Santa Cruz County, he will face multiple charges, including murder, elder abuse, vehicle theft, and identity theft, bringing significant attention to escalating concerns over elder safety and domestic violence.
