ST. LOUIS – In a chilling series of events, Emma M. Cunningham, 32, and Jervonz L. Williams, 49, have admitted to attempting to kidnap and rob an apartment property manager at gunpoint in St. Louis. The incident occurred on February 20, 2024, when Cunningham purchased a handgun for Williams, despite knowing he was a convicted felon barred from firearm possession.
Cunningham pleaded guilty to attempted kidnapping, transfer of a firearm to a convicted felon, and making a false statement during the purchase of the firearm. Williams confessed to using the gun to threaten others and rob a drug dealer, striking him on the head multiple times during the heist.
The duo’s criminal activities culminated in an audacious attempt to kidnap the property manager on August 5, 2024. During this failed bid, they secured the victim with duct tape but were thwarted when she managed to break free. Williams and Cunningham face up to 20 years each for kidnapping and robbery charges.
Williams is set for sentencing on September 24, while Cunningham will be sentenced on September 30. The investigation was led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods.
This case underscores the commitment of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and gun violence in our communities. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Bluestone is prosecuting this serious offense, which threatens the safety of innocent residents in St. Louis.
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Key Facts
- State: Missouri
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Public Corruption|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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