Suspect Arrested and Charged in Connection to Missing Woman’s Disappearance

A suspect has been arrested and charged in connection to the disappearance of a 22-year-old woman in September 2023, according to official documents. Yoland J. Washington, 51, has been charged with murder and is currently in custody at the Dallas County Jail.

Charges Filed in Presumed Death Case

Washington is facing charges for the presumed death of Deaundra Ford, whose body has not yet been located. The investigation into Ford’s disappearance led authorities to identify Washington as the suspect and potentially linked him to her death. Court documents reveal that Washington allegedly paid Ford $200 for sex on the night she went missing.

Surveillance Video Captures Last Known Moments

On September 22, 2023, surveillance video captured Ford leaving her workplace, Diva’s Bikini Bar and Grill, with an unidentified man in a white Ford Transit van. The following day, Ford’s family reported her missing as they were unable to contact her. Ford’s grandmother spoke to ABC13 and expressed concern as it was out of character for Ford to leave without notice, especially since she had a 4-year-old son.

Potential Connection to Capital Murder Case

While police did not provide further details about the connection, it was revealed that Ford was the main witness in a capital murder case involving a former detention center officer. Court documents indicate that the suspects involved in that case sent a text message stating that Ford was not safe in Houston.

Appeal for Information

The Houston Police Department Homicide Division is urging anyone with information about this case to contact them at 713-308-3600. Alternatively, individuals can provide anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

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