Crime
Five Teens Charged in Connection with the Abduction of 4-Year-Old Blessing Aoci
Rock Island, IL – Authorities from the Rock Island Police Department, Illinois State Police, and federal agencies, including the FBI and U.S. Marshals, have announced charges against five teenagers in connection with the abduction of 4-year-old Blessing Aoci.
The incident began on the morning of January 16, 2025, when a statewide AMBER Alert was issued following the theft of a vehicle with Blessing inside.
The child’s mother had briefly left the car running with Blessing secured in a car seat in the back.
The car was then stolen, sparking a massive 8.5-hour search involving local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.
The search effort mobilized extensive resources, including K-9 units, drones, and a command post.
Law enforcement agencies acted swiftly on tips from the community and video footage submitted via doorbell cameras.
The stolen vehicle was located near an apartment complex, but Blessing was not inside. Investigators identified leads through social media posts, particularly on Snapchat, which pointed to an apartment within the complex.
A search warrant was secured, and the U.S. Marshals executed the operation, detaining several teenagers. However, Blessing was still missing at that time.
Just before 3:00 PM, a breakthrough occurred, and Blessing was located unharmed. Authorities have not disclosed the exact circumstances of her discovery but confirmed she was taken to the hospital for evaluation before being reunited with her mother.
The Rock Island Police Department announced charges against five teens in connection with the incident:
- Jaron Bailey-Harris, 18, charged with Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon (UUW) and Possession of a Stolen Vehicle.
- Juvenile #1, a 16-year-old Hispanic male, charged with Kidnapping and Possession of a Stolen Vehicle.
- Juvenile #2, a 16-year-old Black male, charged with Possession of a Stolen Vehicle.
- Juvenile #3, a 15-year-old Black female, charged with Possession of a Stolen Vehicle.
- Juvenile #4, a 14-year-old Black female, charged with Possession of a Stolen Vehicle.
Authorities have stated that the 16-year-old Hispanic male suspect was the individual who initially stole the vehicle with Blessing inside.
All suspects are expected to appear in court between today and the weekend.
The Rock Island Police Department has expressed gratitude for the community’s assistance during the investigation. Tips and surveillance footage played a crucial role in resolving the case and ensuring Blessing’s safe return.
Further details about the suspects and the events leading to Blessing’s recovery are expected as the investigation continues. Authorities emphasized their commitment to holding those responsible accountable.
MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Authorities have confirmed that a suspect is in custody following a shooting incident at the Meridian Mall on Friday afternoon.
As a result, the lockdown at the mall has been lifted.
The Meridian Township Police Department issued a public advisory just before 2:00 p.m., urging residents and shoppers to avoid the area near the Dick’s Sporting Goods entrance while officers conducted an active investigation at the scene.
At this time, police have not released specific details regarding the nature of the shooting, including whether anyone was injured or the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s arrest.
Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the incident and are expected to provide additional information as it becomes available.
The public is asked to remain clear of the immediate area to allow for the ongoing investigation.