A 14-year-old girl Whitehall girl reported missing on Sunday has been located in Nanticoke, PA with a man accused of luring her from her home.
Whitehall Police say 27-year-old Christopher P. Jones lured the teen from her home using social media.
Investigators were able to track online interactions between the two to a residence in Luzerne County, four and a half hours away from Pittsburgh.
Jones was taken into custody by the FBI Child Exploitation Task Force on a warrant obtained by Whitehall Police.
He faces charges of unlawful conduct with a minor, interference with the custody of children, corruption of minors and criminal attempt to commit several sex offenses.
Police say the case “underscores the growing role digital platforms play in missing persons cases.”
Authorities urge parents and guardians to stay aware of their child’s online presence.
“Social media can be a powerful tool – not just for connection but for locating individuals in urgent situations,” said Whitehall Chief Jason Gagorik. “We encourage parents to maintain open conversations with their children about online activity and to be mindful of what is shared publicly.”
The 14-year-old was taken to Nanticoke, PA
The 14-year-old was taken to Nanticoke, PA
