Teen recovered following 'Missing in Michigan' event

Investigators assisting with the Missing in Michigan event are credited with finding a 16-year-old girl approximately six hours after her mother shared her case with authorities there, announced the Michigan State Police (MSP) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Monday. The Missing in Michigan event was held Saturday, May 14, at Detroit Public Safety Headquarters.

The Detroit mother had previously reported her daughter missing to local authorities; however, she attended the Missing in Michigan event in the hope that something further could be done.

At approximately 2:30 p.m., specialized investigators with the Southeast Michigan Trafficking and Exploitation Crimes (SEMTEC) Task Force participating in the event interviewed the mother. An immediate investigation initiated by SEMTEC revealed the missing juvenile was a victim involved in a sex trafficking ring located in the Detroit Metro area.

Within six hours, the juvenile was recovered by SEMTEC and returned to safety. Investigation into her case is ongoing by the FBI task force.

David P. Gelios, special agent in charge, FBI Detroit Division stated, "This fortunate result highlights the value and importance of our law enforcement agencies working in solid partnerships to connect with our community, and to protect our children."

Sponsored by the MSP, this is the sixth Missing in Michigan event, and the third to be held in Detroit.

More than 60 missing person cases have been resolved thanks to previous events like this one and the dedication of those participating.

In support of this effort, and to further raise awareness of missing persons, Gov. Rick Snyder has declared May as Missing Persons Awareness Month.

Published: Thu, May 19, 2016