Authorities reported that a 13-year-old girl from upstate New York, who had been missing, was located in a suburban Chicago apartment after being reportedly lured away by illegal immigrants.
The teen, whose identity has not been disclosed, was rescued from a residential complex in Blue Island, Illinois, by US Marshals. Their investigation followed her disappearance from her home in Rochester on September 11.
According to the US Marshals Service, an 18-year-old undocumented immigrant and his father were inside the apartment with her when she was found.
Security footage captured the girl leaving her home, where she was approached by three adult men.
According to US Marshals Director for the Western District of NY, Charles Salina, the alleged perpetrator used social media to entice the girl.
“They were exploiting her in Chicago,” Salina stated, although he did not provide further details.
Blue Island is located 20 miles south of downtown Chicago.
The suspects reportedly met the girl near her residence and she entered their “light-colored SUV,” driving away, as disclosed by the US Marshal Service.
Given concerns for her safety, the search for the girl was prioritized.
“We made this case our top priority,” Salina remarked to RochesterFirst.com.
As they investigated the circumstances surrounding her disappearance, officials feared for her safety.
Working alongside the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, authorities were able to gather tips that aided in her recovery.
“US Marshals in Rochester, in collaboration with the local NCMEC office, found evidence that indicated the girl had moved to the Chicago area and relayed relevant information to US Marshals in the Northern District of Illinois,” officials reported.
On September 21, federal agents located the child in an apartment where she was with the two individuals accused of being undocumented.
“The United States Marshals Service worked diligently to rescue this vulnerable child from those who should not have been in the country and took her away from the security of her family. Our children deserve to feel safe in our communities!” Serralta emphasized in a statement.
Authorities also discovered another girl in the apartment, who is believed to have been lured by the 18-year-old as well, according to reports from WXXI News.
The father and son were taken into custody by federal agents for their immigration status.
As of Tuesday afternoon, no formal charges had been made against them.
“It’s immensely gratifying for us in law enforcement to reach out to a family and inform them that their daughter is safe,” Salina concluded.
