From Tribune staff reports
JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ala, — A call to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office reporting a sexual assault triggered an area wide search that resulted in a suspect being jailed without bond. The Sheriff credited helpful citizens and quick work by deputies.
“This was a great job by our deputies and K9 units in quickly apprehending this suspect,” said Sheriff Mark Pettway. “The information provided by our citizens was a critical component in our success.”
On Sunday, September 20, 2026, at approximately 9:55 a.m., Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the 4500 block of Bessemer Super Highway in Brighton, Alabama, in reference to a reported sexual assault, according to Henry Irby of the JCSO.
“While deputies were responding, they were provided with a description of the suspect’s vehicle,” Irby said. “As deputies arrived in the area, they spotted the vehicle. The suspect fled on foot into a nearby mobile home park, prompting deputies to establish a perimeter.”
After an extensive search was conducted by Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office personnel and K9 units, the suspect was located in the 3700 block of Morgan Avenue in Brighton and taken into custody without incident.
The female victim was transported for medical evaluation and further assistance.
“The victim did not know the suspect,” Irby said.
The suspect was identified as Walter Leanthony Powell, 36. Powell has been charged with second degree assault, first degree kidnapping, first degree rape, and first degree sodomy.
He is being held in the Jefferson County Jail without bond.
Anyone with information pertaining to this case is asked to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office at 205-325-1450 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
