STAFFORD, VA – A man accused of attempting to carjack a woman using a stolen chainsaw and hammer was apprehended by Virginia authorities on Monday, following an extensive search operation, as reported by Stafford County Sheriff’s Office.
The suspect, identified as 26-year-old Devin Laws of Blackwater, was taken into custody after a three-hour manhunt involving a K-9 unit and a drone. Upon his arrest, authorities discovered brass knuckles in Laws’ possession.
The incident began just before 7 a.m. when deputies were called to a disturbance involving a weapon. The victim reported that she was parked in a driveway when an unknown individual, later identified as Laws, approached her vehicle carrying a chainsaw and a hammer.
According to deputies, Laws allegedly attempted to open the car door and raised the hammer in a threatening manner towards the car window. The driver managed to escape unharmed by speeding away from the scene.
While searching for Laws, deputies received additional reports of break-ins from local residents. One resident reported waking up to noises in his home around 6:30 a.m., where he encountered Laws. Upon being discovered, Laws reportedly fled the scene.
Additional reports of Laws ringing doorbells and another break-in where he allegedly brandished a handgun were also received. The K-9 unit was successful in tracking down various items belonging to Laws, including his clothing, the chainsaw, and a handgun.
Upon his arrest, Laws claimed he was in the area for landscaping work. He is currently being held without bond at the Rappahannock Regional Jail, facing multiple charges including breaking and entering, attempted carjacking, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, use of a firearm during a felony, carrying a concealed weapon, petit larceny, and vandalism.
The stolen chainsaw was returned to its rightful owner. Stafford County Sheriff David “DP” Dectur praised the collaborative efforts of the deputies and residents in ensuring the safety of Stafford.