A Des Moines woman, Jessica Rae Williams, 36, is currently being held in an Indiana jail after allegedly abducting her 14-year-old daughter. The incident, which triggered an Amber Alert this week, resulted in a tense search for the missing teenager.

According to a news release from Des Moines police, Williams does not have legal custody of her daughter, who is nonverbal and diagnosed with autism. Concerns were raised about the girl's safety while in the company of her mother.

The abduction occurred on Wednesday when Williams unlawfully left the Des Moines area with her daughter. The girl was last seen in Des Moines at around 3:30 p.m. that day. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, an Amber Alert was issued, raising public awareness and aiding law enforcement in their search efforts.

Happily, just six hours after the Amber Alert was initiated, an Indiana State Trooper located Williams' car in the city of Hammond, approximately 340 miles away from Des Moines. The trooper discovered the missing girl safe and unharmed. She has since been reunited with her custodial guardian, providing a sense of relief for concerned family members and friends.

Currently, Jessica Rae Williams remains in custody at the Lake County Jail in Indiana. Authorities are in the process of extraditing her back to Iowa, where they plan to file child endangerment charges against her. The full details surrounding the abduction and the motives behind Williams' actions have not been disclosed at this time.

This incident highlights the crucial role played by Amber Alerts in ensuring the safe recovery of missing children. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies, the community, and the public are vital in these situations, as they help bring swift resolution to potentially dangerous situations.

As the legal process unfolds, authorities are prioritizing the well-being and safety of the young girl. It serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the protection and care of vulnerable individuals, particularly those with special needs.

The Des Moines Police Department and other relevant authorities continue to investigate the incident and will provide updates as more information becomes available.