Columbus Police Arrest Two for Witness Tampering
Authorities jailed two suspects on witness tampering charges tied to a prior kidnapping and torture case.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Crime — General
Police arrested Zablin Woodruff and Tracy Smith on charges of witness tampering in connection with a 2023 kidnapping case. Both suspects are currently held at the Bartholomew County Jail.
Why it matters
The arrests follow an investigation into attempts to influence witnesses ahead of upcoming court proceedings for the 2023 assault of a 19-year-old victim. Woodruff faces additional charges including obstruction of justice, bribery, and invasion of privacy.
Zablin Woodruff and Tracy Smith are currently held at the Bartholomew County Jail on a 48-hour hold without bond. Woodruff is scheduled for a jury trial on Nov. 2, while other defendants in the case face varying prison terms.
The players
Zablin Woodruff
The defendant is facing charges for witness tampering, obstruction of justice, bribery, and invasion of privacy.
Tracy Smith
The suspect is facing preliminary charges for obstruction of justice and resisting law enforcement.
Charles Breedlove
He was previously sentenced to 10 years in prison and 10 years on probation for his role in the case.
Ashton Fields
He was sentenced to four years in prison with two years suspended following the 2023 assault.
Emily Franklin
She is a co-defendant in the legal proceedings who is awaiting a sentencing hearing.
The details
Woodruff and Smith were arrested after allegedly attempting to improperly influence a witness involved in the June 2023 kidnapping of a 19-year-old. The victim was previously lured to a barn in Columbus where he was assaulted with weapons.
Timeline
June 3, 2023: A 19-year-old victim was kidnapped and tortured in a barn.
October 30, 2026: Zablin Woodruff and Tracy Smith were arrested for witness tampering.
November 2, 2026: A jury trial for Woodruff is scheduled.
November 18, 2026: Sentencing for Emily Franklin is scheduled.
Legal Context
The current arrests stem from the ongoing 2023 Columbus kidnapping and assault case, which has already resulted in prison sentences for several participants. This development reflects the court system's focus on maintaining witness integrity as the case moves toward trial.
The arrests are part of a specific legal action in a high-profile criminal case rather than a broader threat to the public. Residents in Columbus should note that court schedules for Woodruff and Franklin may result in increased security or activity around the courthouse.
The takeaway
Maintaining the integrity of witness testimony is a critical component of the judicial process during high-stakes criminal trials. Authorities continue to monitor the case closely as trial dates and sentencing hearings for the remaining defendants approach.
Further reading
For more on ongoing legal proceedings in the area, visit the Crime — General section.
