‘Very Brave And Honest’ Toddler Tells Deputy Where Fugitive Is Hiding When Adults Played Dumb

Williamsburg, KY – Investigators praised a Kentucky boy who helped them apprehend a wanted fugitive when none of the adults who knew of her whereabouts would help them.

The incident occurred at a Williamsburg residence on Feb. 24, the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department (WCSD) said in a press release the following day.

WCSD deputies and officers from the Kentucky State Police (KSP) and the Williamsburg Police Department (WPD) were searching for 45-year-old fugitive Tina Hicks, who had multiple warrants out for her arrest at the time.

But when they arrived at the home, the occupants were less than cooperative.

“While investigating the whereabouts of the fugitive, no adult family member was willing to report whether or not the fugitive was inside the house,” the WCSD said.

That’s when a little boy piped up and took everyone to task.

“A very brave and honest toddler stood up, put his hands on his hips, and stated ‘it is good to be honest… we shouldn’t lie, she is inside the room next to the bathroom!’’ the sheriff’s office said.

Deputies followed the child’s directions and located Hicks hiding just where he said she would be.

“Deputy [Brently] Patrick commended the toddler for his integrity and service to the community,” the WCSD said.

The sheriff’s office noted that the boy was visiting family the day of Hicks’ arrest and that deputies did not find him to be in any danger.

“He was healthy, intelligent, and in no way appeared to be abused. He was just at the wrong place [at the] wrong time,” the WCSD said. “If deputies thought he was a potential victim of repercussions, it would have been dealt with.”

Hicks was arrested on two outstanding Whitley Circuit Indictment warrants for charges of methamphetamine possession and possession of drug paraphernalia.

She was also served with four additional district court warrants.