Herman Sowell Jr.

Carefully crafted strategy, coordination with Nashville Metro Police and a bit of luck helped the La Vergne Police Department capture a rape suspect Wednesday, Police Chief Mike Walker said.

“I am very proud of the job our police officers performed today,” Walker said at a press conference. “They were able to quickly take the suspect off the streets before he committed another heinous crime on an innocent victim. I also appreciate the help provided by Metro Police.”

A call came in to La Vergne’s dispatch at 7:14 Wednesday morning reporting the rape of a juvenile. The suspect fled in a green Nissan Xterra with no license plate.

An extensive search ensued, bringing officers to the area between Blue Hole Road and Old Hickory Boulevard.

The police used electronic means to narrow down the area where the suspect was located.

Herman Sowell Jr., 45, was captured after several hours of searching. Sowell has had an extensive arrest record with more than 78 arrests in Tennessee alone, with at least 12 arrests in La Vergne.

When asked why this man was still walking the streets, Walker stated the court system decides who should be released and who serves time.  

“This is another example of the revolving door issues with keeping criminals in jail,” said Walker. “It’s obvious this man showed a strong propensity to continue committing crimes of all types. If he had been in jail with this extensive criminal record, the juvenile victim would not have been raped.”

Evidence is still being gathered and the investigation is continuing. Multiple charges against Sowell will be filed.