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.
Crowley, La. — A homicide investigation is underway following a fatal shooting at an apartment complex in Crowley, according to local authorities.
Officers with the Crowley Police Department responded on February 21 to reports of gunshots at the Canaan Village Apartments.
Upon arrival, officers located a 21-year-old man lying on the ground with a gunshot wound to the left side of his head.
The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene and later identified as Cam’ron Scott.
Investigators reported that witnesses at the scene identified Javon Davis as the individual responsible for the shooting.
During the course of the investigation, officers recovered a used handgun believed to be connected to the incident.
An arrest warrant has been issued for Davis on a charge of second-degree murder.
Authorities are actively searching for the suspect and are asking anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to contact the Crowley Police Department at 337-783-1234.
The investigation remains ongoing.