FBI Finds 16-Year-Old Ohio Girl In Florida, Kidnapper Arrested
A 16-year-old girl who had been missing for nearly a month was safely recovered following a multistate investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Authorities said the teenager, reported missing from Colerain Township, Ohio on February 16, was located last Friday in a hotel room near Jacksonville, Florida.
Investigators identified the suspect as Negron, a Tennessee man who has since been taken into custody. Officials said charges are pending while investigators continue reviewing evidence. Authorities also noted that Negron may be connected to a separate 2024 case involving the alleged transportation of a 17-year-old girl from Texas for sexual activity.
The recovery marked the second alleged child exploitation takedown in just one week, according to FBI Director Kash Patel. He praised the coordinated effort among multiple field offices, local law enforcement, and the bureau’s FBI Hostage Rescue Team, emphasizing that protecting children from violent criminals remains a top priority.
Federal officials said investigators tracked Negron after executing a search warrant at his Tennessee residence, where they learned he had already left the area. Law enforcement later located his vehicle in Palatka, Florida before ultimately finding him near Jacksonville. The missing teen was discovered safe in a nearby hotel room.
Authorities confirmed that digital evidence is still being reviewed, and at this stage, no child sexual abuse material has been identified. Investigators also uncovered a possible link between Negron and a 2024 incident involving barricade situations with local police, during which a shotgun was reportedly recovered.
According to officials, Negron’s prior criminal history includes misdemeanor charges such as theft, trespassing, criminal mischief, and marijuana possession. The FBI said it has since met with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio to discuss potential federal charges, including allegations involving transportation of a minor.
Following his arrest, Negron was placed in custody and is being transported back to Tennessee. Officials said the case highlights the importance of coordinated, cross-state law enforcement efforts aimed at protecting vulnerable victims and preventing further harm.