Gulfport Man Sentenced to Prison for Kidnapping
Kenyon Demonel Ducksworth received 30 years for kidnapping and aggravated assault after a 2025 attack.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Crime — General
Kenyon Demonel Ducksworth was sentenced to 30 years in prison for kidnapping and assaulting a woman in Gulfport. The 44-year-old defendant, who was already on probation for forgery, will serve 15 years in state custody followed by post-release supervision.
Why it matters
The sentence addresses a violent incident that occurred on East Beach Boulevard. It also resolves legal complications involving the defendant's prior felony probation status.
Ducksworth was sentenced to a total of 30 years, split between 15 years to serve in the Mississippi Department of Corrections and 15 years suspended. He must also pay $3,500 in fines and restitution while completing 15 years of post-release supervision.
The players
Kenyon Demonel Ducksworth
The 44-year-old defendant was convicted of kidnapping and aggravated assault while on probation for a previous forgery offense.
Lisa P. Dodson
The judge oversaw the sentencing and subsequently revoked the defendant's probation for a separate uttering forgery conviction.
The details
Ducksworth kidnapped the victim from a hotel and forced her to drive toward Jones Park, during which he choked and punched her. Gulfport police officers intervened at the park, although no weapons were recovered during the incident.
Timeline
June 28, 2025: Ducksworth kidnapped and assaulted the victim on East Beach Boulevard.
October 2026: The court sentenced Ducksworth for his crimes.
Legal Context
This sentencing follows the standard application of the Mississippi Department of Corrections sentencing and supervision guidelines for violent offenders. The court's decision reflects a broader legal trend of holding individuals with active probation violations accountable through combined sentences.
The resolution of this case brings a conclusion to a violent event that took place in public areas like Jones Park and East Beach Boulevard. Residents can note that the court has ordered the defendant to maintain no contact with the victim.
The takeaway
The court's decision to mandate post-release supervision and restitution highlights the legal focus on both punishment and victim protection. Victims or those seeking support should familiarize themselves with local resources provided by the Gulfport legal system.
Further reading
Find more local updates on the Crime — General page.
