Kendrick Newby was taken into custody just before 7 p.m., roughly two hours after deputies issued a public emergency alert warning that he was considered armed and dangerous. The search centered on the area around a Circle K convenience store off U.S. Route 1 North and Ocean Boulevard.

Law enforcement personnel conducted ground searches with weapons and flashlights drawn, while a helicopter and multiple drones monitored the neighborhood from above. Deputies have not disclosed the specific criminal charges that prompted the search, nor have they detailed the method or tip that led them to Newby's exact location. The sheriff's office said more information will be provided as it becomes available.

Jennifer Boudro, who lives in the neighborhood, watched the response unfold from her front porch as police vehicles circled the area.

"The police presence kept getting heavier," Boudro said. "The helicopter wasn't going away, so we all kind of walked outside to see what was going on. Because, yes, we are nosy."

Boudro said more drones took to the sky as officers planted patrol cars directly in front of her house. Police radio communications were clearly audible from her yard, she said.

"You could hear over the radio. This is St John's County. Put your hands up," Boudro said.

She described deputies maneuvering through the surrounding streets while maintaining their focus near the convenience store.

"We've seen them shoot down past first, going back toward the store," Boudro said. "We have seen them shot down toward second, but they have always kind of circled back and remained concentrated in this area."

Boudro said the response demonstrated how law enforcement works to keep the community safe, and she offered advice for residents who find themselves near active police scenes.

"Do not interfere with law enforcement," Boudro said. "Do not block the path for emergency vehicles. Pay attention to your surroundings. Lock your doors. Make sure that your animals stay inside. Do not take things in your own hands."

The arrest followed a public alert issued around 5 p.m. Saturday. The sheriff's office has not said whether Newby was armed when taken into custody or whether he resisted arrest.

Registered sex predators are required to report their whereabouts to law enforcement under Florida law. The circumstances that led to Saturday's search remain under investigation.