A 16-year-old girl reported missing in North Carolina last month was found Sunday night with a 37-year-old man during a traffic stop in Putnam County, Florida, authorities said.
Background
The teenager was reported missing by her mother in North Carolina on February 16, according to the Putnam County Sheriff's Office. The girl was located during a traffic stop Monday night near Crescent City, Florida, when deputies pulled over Joshua Magraff for speeding.
When deputies asked about his passenger, Magraff initially claimed she was his 16-year-old cousin, then changed his story to say she was just a friend. "When deputies asked him why he was hanging out with a 16-year-old his story changed to stating he thought she was 19," the sheriff's office said.
The girl initially gave deputies multiple fake names and birth dates, including one that would have made her 12 years old. Concerned for her welfare, the deputy separated her from Magraff into a patrol vehicle, where she eventually provided her real name.
The Investigation
Deputies confirmed the girl had been reported missing in North Carolina. Magraff told investigators he and the girl traveled to Florida "to play gambling games."
During a search of Magraff's vehicle, deputies discovered $1,900 in counterfeit bills, synthetic marijuana, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.
Magraff was arrested and charged with interference in child custody, possession of synthetic marijuana, possession of counterfeit money, delinquency of a minor, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was booked into the Putnam County Jail with a $9,000 bond.
The Florida Department of Children and Families took custody of the teen to arrange reunification with her mother. It remains unclear whether Magraff will face additional charges in North Carolina.
Key Takeaways
- The 16-year-old was reported missing by her mother in North Carolina on February 16
- Joshua Magraff, 37, was arrested during a traffic stop near Crescent City, Florida
- The girl initially gave deputies false identities before revealing her real name
- Magraff claimed he thought the teen was 19 years old
- Authorities found counterfeit money and drugs in Magraff's vehicle
- The teen was placed in the custody of Florida's Department of Children and Families
What's Next
It remains unclear whether Magraff will face charges in North Carolina related to the girl's disappearance. The case raises questions about how the teen met Magraff and traveled to Florida, details that may emerge as North Carolina authorities continue their investigation.