Missing Ala. teen found, man arrested in connection with her disappearance
OAN Newsroom
UPDATED 2:12 PM PT — Saturday, January 25, 2020
An Alabama man has been arrested in connection with the disappearance
of a 13-year-old girl, who was found safe after she went missing this
week. On Thursday, police announced charges against 24-year-old Rodrigo
Ortega, which included second-degree rape and enticing a child.Ortega reportedly met the teen online and told her he was 19. Video surveillance showed she willingly got into his car. She has been returned home, but police said they will need to further interview the teen to confirm details of the case.
The local police chief said he is happy they were able to bring the teen home. He also emphasized parents should be aware of their young children on social media.
“At that critical age of 13, a lot of bad things can happen, we all know that. You can meet people on social media that aren’t who they say they are, aren’t the age that they are, or that they pretend to be. My message is: Know your children, know their whereabouts and, especially, know who they’re hanging out with.”
Chief Pat Cheatwood, Pelham Police Department
Ortega, who is also on an ICE contingent hold, is being held in custody.
Photo of Rodrigo Ortega via Madison County Sheriff’s Office
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