Neighbors were stunned to learn that a man accused of kidnapping and beating a Norman woman was found dead in jail.
The Cleveland County Sheriff's Office believes he took his own life on Sunday, four days after his arrest.
“I wish he had to face the consequences instead of doing something like that,” said neighbor Kimberly Pickett.
On Tuesday, police said, handyman Daniel Freeman went to the victim's house, tied her to a chair and demanded money.
Neighbors told News 9 that Freeman intended to kill the victim but changed his mind after she begged for her life and promised not to tell anyone.
“It broke my heart for her. When I found out, I cried,” Pickett said.
Last week, there was a knock on Kimberly Pickett's door. “I saw a guy with a badge and a gun on his hip, so I immediately opened the door,” Pickett said.
Investigators asked to see the surveillance footage. “I was like, 'Oh my God. Is everything OK?' He said, 'I wish I were,'” Pickett said.
Pickett wasn't sure what was going on at first, watching as investigators went door to door looking for information. “Something very serious happened,” Pickett said.
Pickett learned that police believed a fellow resident from the Old Silk Stocking neighborhood had been kidnapped and beaten. “She had two black eyes, it's so sad,” Pickett said.
According to police, the victim was eventually forced to withdraw money from her ATM. “Her hands and feet were tied and she was taken to the bank,” Pickett said.
Police arrested Daniel Freeman, a handyman who had worked for the victim and several of her neighbors in the past. “Since I have two small children, I have to be on guard,” Pickett said.
According to the Cleveland County Sheriff's Office, Pickett learned on Monday that Freeman had hanged himself in jail. “I felt chills down my spine, I felt sick,” Pickett said.
She says her community is now focused on healing. “I just want to be there and support them on their journey,” Pickett said.
Fearing for her life, the victim waited for days before contacting the police.
Records show that Freeman had money problems in his past.
An investigation has been launched into Freeman's death.
The Cleveland County Sheriff's Office requested assistance from the OSBI.
