Suspect Turns Himself In After Back and Forth With Police on Facebook

Social media arguments have become ordinary in the information age. But for one Washington state man, this particular engagement has led to an end of a manhunt and a viral exchange. 

As reported by The Hill on Sunday (Dec. 9), 38-year-old Anthony Akers used Facebook’s comments section to ensure the Richland Police Department that he would be surrendering to the authorities. After the department posted his information for their “Wanted Wednesday” Facebook series, Akers responded in the comments “Calm down. I’m going to turn myself in.”

The response received thousands of “likes” and led to an ongoing conversation in the comments between Akers and the Richland Police. 

“Hey Anthony! We haven’t seen you yet. Our business hours are 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Monday through Friday,” the police responded. “Of course if you need a ride you can call non-emergency (509-628-0333) and we will pick you up.”

Akers once again insured the department he will begin his estimated month-long sentence for his failure to comply charges in 48 hours after “tying up a couple loose ends.”

Continuing with the generosities, Akers apologized to the department for “standing them up” after he did not appear in the two days he promised. He stated, “ts not you, its me. I obviously have commitment issues.” Akers then promised to make it up to the authorities, telling the department he will arrive before lunch the next day. 

This time Akers made good on his word as he posted a selfie signifying the start of his sentence that was captioned, “Here for our date sweetheart.”