MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Court records show a mental evaluation has been ordered for an 18-year-old man who police said kidnapped a man as he robbed him, then was caught after a police chase and crash.
Adrian Starks is charged with robbery, kidnapping, evading arrest in a vehicle and evading arrest on foot, and no driver’s license. MPD said he also has previous arrests for domestic assault, aggravated stalking, violation of protection order, and violation of bail conditions. He is out of jail on a total bond of $37,500.
MPD said officers responded to the kidnapping about 6:15 p.m. Friday, July 19, 2024, in the 6400 block of Moriah Land. Investigators said Starks approached the victim, asking if he had a gun of some marijuana. At some point, police said the victim dropped his keys, and Starks grabbed them and demanded money to return them.
Investigators said when the victim told Starks he didn’t have any money, Starks threatened to shoot him, then tied him up with an extension cord and put him in the passenger seat of the victim’s black Hyundai Elantra.
Investigators said the victim’s wife called police about what happened, and said she was able to keep an eye on her husband’s car until officers found it.
Police said when officers spotted the car, they tried to pull the driver over, but he refused, and they began a chase. The car crashed at Sharpe Ave. and Robinhood Ln. and Starks tried to run, but police said they were able to capture him.
The victim was taken to Baptist East Hospital in non-critical condition.
