LANSING, Mich. — Finding a fugitive in a rural area is tough enough.
It's even harder when you don't know which look he's going to be sporting.
Dark, bushy hair and a beard, dark and close-cut, or long, blonde hair.
Despite the different looks -- police finally have Joshawa Vergason in custody, ending a 22-day manhunt that started on Aug. 7.
Joshawa was found and arrested at his father's house and his family tells FOX 47 News that they aren't surprised he ended up there.
"That's really his only family that he's close with and would go back to," said his cousin, Kyla Vergason.
Detective Lt. Thomas DeClercq told FOX 47 News it was through several tips and surveillance of Richard Vergason's household that lead to Joshawa's arrest just before 5 am Thursday.
Joshawa was spotted at the house around 11 last night, with his new look, finally putting an end to the 22-day man hunt.
DeClerqu said Joshawa was found in a bedroom, armed with a pistol.
After a brief struggle, he was taken into custody.
Kyla says she doesn't see Joshawa as a dangerous person, but understands the police's procedure.
"You have to treat someone with a gun or a weapon as dangerous because you never know what their breaking point is, so the police did what they have to do to protect the community as a whole," said Kyla.
Richard Vergason joins his son in jail after being arrested on suspicions of harboring a fugitive.
Although related by blood, Kyla doesn't condone her family's behavior.
"If you do a crime of any sort, you should pay for those crimes," said Kyla. "Even though he's my family, he's gotta pay for those crimes. The important thing is that he is alive."
Joshawa has previously been charged for resisting and obstructing officers, aggravated assault, assault on a K9 and now after the manhunt, police are seeking additional charges.
Kyla expects Joshawa's arrest to bring relief to the tight knit Eaton Rapids Community.
"Having him off the streets and having him out of town will make the community as a whole feel safer," said Kyla.
Joshawa's family tells me they are relieved the manhunt is over and ready to move forward with their lives.
This is still an ongoing investigation and FOX 47 News will keep you updated as new developments arise.
Want to see more local news ? Visit the FOX47News Website.
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