Missing Teen Found Safe Outside ABC7's Office; Father Arrested on Child Abduction Suspicions

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
26/07/2024 19h57

In a startling turn of events, a 15-year-old girl who had been missing in Monterey Park for about a week was discovered safe outside ABC7's office in Glendale. However, the joy of her safe return was short-lived as her father, Jeffrey Chao, was arrested on Friday under suspicion of child abduction and other offenses.

According to the Monterey Park Police Department, Jeffrey Chao is also believed to have been involved in conspiracy and falsifying a police report linked to the disappearance of his daughter, Alison Jillian Chao. Alison had vanished on July 16 but was located unharmed on Tuesday. The investigation into the incident is still ongoing, and the Monterey Park Police Department's Investigations Bureau has refrained from providing further comments at this time.

The diligent efforts and collaboration of law enforcement agencies were crucial in resolving this critical situation and guaranteeing Alison's safety, as stated by the Monterey Park police. The department assured the community of Monterey Park that their commitment to the residents' safety and well-being remains steadfast, appreciating the ongoing support during the investigation.

The discovery of Alison outside ABC7's studio was made by a woman who recognized the missing minor while she was walking. The woman, Rachelle, immediately called the police and followed Alison in her car until they reached the ABC7 studios, ensuring that help was on its way. Glendale police arrived soon after, securing the situation.

Rachelle expressed her astonishment at Alison's demeanor, noting that she appeared composed, sound of mind, and articulate. Alison assertively stated her intentions to tell her story exclusively at ABC7, claiming that nobody else would listen to her. This incident sheds light on the complexity of Alison's feelings towards her parents' divorce and ongoing custody battle, with her mother recently being awarded full custody of her.

Alison's mother released a statement expressing her commitment to protecting her daughter's interests, regardless of the difficult circumstances and the criticism she may face. She emphasized that Alison has a loving and adoring family from both her mother and father's side. The arrest of the father has undoubtedly added another layer of complexity to this already gripping Southern Californian story.

Following Alison's safe return, her father and aunt held a press conference to express their gratitude to the public for their assistance in the search for Alison. The aunt believes that Alison ran away because she did not want to be with her mother. Her father expressed deep gratitude for everyone's support and the collective effort in locating his daughter, expressing the family's worry during her absence.

As the investigation progresses and more details emerge, the community continues to hope for a clearer understanding of the circumstances that led to Alison's disappearance and safe return.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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