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Wanted Suspect Taken into Custody After Standoff
A wanted individual was taken into custody late Thursday night following a standoff at a residence located at 325 Friendly Church Road.
At approximately 7:15 p.m. on Thursday, August 20, 2026, deputies with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office responded to the residence in an attempt to serve an arrest warrant on Waylon Douglas Ryder, who was wanted on a probation violation stemming from underlying drug-related offenses.
Upon deputies’ arrival, Ryder attempted to run out of the back door but retreated inside after he saw a deputy. Deputies could hear Ryder using a power tool to screw the doors shut from the inside. Ryder refused to surrender and was believed to be hiding inside the residence. The Henry County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team responded with a search warrant.
After repeated attempts to have Ryder peacefully surrender, deputies opened the front door and made entry into the home. Deputies assisted an unwitting female in exiting the residence. The SWAT team then
deployed chemical munitions in an effort to safely resolve the situation and conducted an extensive search of the home.
Shortly after 11:00 p.m., deputies located Ryder hiding in the attic of the residence. He was taken into custody without further incident.
In addition to the outstanding probation violation, Ryder has been charged with obstruction of justice as a result of this incident.
• Violation of Virginia Code Section: 19.2-306 – Felony Probation Violation
• Violation of Virginia Code Section: 18.2-460 – Obstructing Justice
It is also noted that a drug overdose occurred at this same residence approximately one week prior to this incident.
The standoff lasted approximately four hours. The Henry County Sheriff’s Office thanks the community for its patience and cooperation while deputies safely resolved the situation.
Sheriff Davis emphasized the agency’s commitment to locating wanted individuals, stating: “Let this serve as a clear message—if you are wanted by law enforcement in Henry County, there is no safe place to hide. Our deputies will use every lawful means necessary to locate you, take you into custody, and ensure you are held accountable.”
The Henry County Sheriff’s Office also reminds the public that anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of wanted individuals or information about illegal activity is encouraged to come forward.
Tips may be submitted anonymously through CrimeStoppers at 276-63-CRIME (276-632-7463), or by texting the TIP411 mobile app. All information provided can remain confidential
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