FATHER AND SON SENTENCED TO LIFE AND 20 YEARS RESPECTIVELY FOR KIDNAPPING CASE

(Citrus County, FL) In a recent case handled by the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney's Office, 32-year-old Eric William Johnson was sentenced to 20 years in the Florida Department of Corrections after pleading guilty for his involvement in a series of alarming and criminal actions that transpired, including kidnapping, burglary of a dwelling with a deadly weapon, and impersonating a law enforcement officer.

Today, Johnson’s father, 71-year-old Maynard David Selvog, was found guilty on all charges as a principal to kidnapping while armed and burglary of a dwelling while armed.  

“The sentence of twenty years and life serves as a beacon of deterrence and a testament of our commitment to protecting our citizens,” said William “Bill” Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. “Posing as law enforcement and forcibly entering someone’s home is not only a breach of trust but a perilous assault on civil liberties. The acts of both Johnson and Selvog undermine the very fabric of justice and endanger the safety and security of our community.”

On July 19, 2023, Johnson, accompanied by Selvog as a getaway driver, traveled to an acquaintance’s residence in Homosassa. Upon arrival, Johnson walked up to the door of the camper with an AR-15-style air-powered gun, knocking while announcing “Citrus County Sheriff’s Department.” He then proceeded to enter the camper, point the weapon at the occupants inside, and demanded they exit the camper.

Believing Johnson was an armed law enforcement officer, both victims complied with the demands. Once outside, they realized that Johnson was not an actual officer and attempted to call 9-1-1. Johnson immediately attempted to take the phone away which resulted in a struggle. During the struggle, the second victim was able to run to the parent’s home on the same property for help.

Johnson then chased after the victim, kicking in the door of the home. The victim, along with the homeowner, was able to successfully disarm Johnson. After a lengthy struggle, Johnson then retreated and fled the scene with Selvog. Shortly after, Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies were able to locate Selvog, who eventually informed officials that Johnson was hiding in a nearby shed.

CCSO Deputies then found Johnson, armed with another firearm, engaged them in a standoff. After failing to comply with law enforcement’s orders, a K-9 was deployed. Johnson made a shocking attempt to harm the law enforcement K-9 during this confrontation, before deputies were able to move in and apprehend him. Both Johnson and Selvog were arrested as a result of this investigation. 

The successful prosecution of this case was a result of the meticulous work of Assistant State Attorneys Nicholas Caporicci and Kaitlyn Mannis.

 

Published 02/07/2024.