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A father-and-son duo from California faces federal kidnapping charges after detaining two U.S. Forest Service workers in a trailer located within the Shasta Trinity National Forest, according to federal prosecutors. Joseph Charles Henrichsen, 49, and his son Phoenix Henrichsen allegedly restrained both employees using zip ties during the incident near Gumboot Lake in northern California’s mountain terrain.
Law enforcement responded Thursday morning after receiving a call before 11 a.m. reporting the workers’ abduction. An FBI hostage negotiator stationed at Quantico was dispatched to assist local officials in the complex negotiation effort that stretched through Thursday and into Friday morning.
Joseph Henrichsen allegedly demanded direct communication with FBI personnel while holding the captives. The first worker was released at 1:50 a.m. Friday, followed by the second approximately 15 minutes later, with both suspects surrendering to FBI agents by 2:30 a.m.
U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced Friday that federal prosecutors will pursue kidnapping charges under Title 18, United States Code, Section 1201(a)(5), against both men. The motive behind the kidnapping and the suspects’ specific demand for FBI involvement remain under investigation.
Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz commended the safe resolution and pledged continued support for the affected workers and their families. The agency has committed to providing ongoing assistance to those impacted by the incident.
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