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.
Crime
14-Year-Old Fatally Shot in Selma, 17-Year-Old Suspect in Custody

SELMA, AL – A 14-year-old boy was fatally shot in Selma over the weekend, and a 17-year-old suspect is now in custody in connection with the incident, authorities confirmed.
The Selma Police Department responded to reports of a shooting in the 1400 block of Weaver Street in the early hours of Saturday, February 10, at approximately 1:55 a.m.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a 14-year-old male victim suffering from gunshot wounds.
Later that evening, Selma City Schools identified the victim as Jamarj Acoff in an official statement.
“This is a challenging time for us all as we deal with the loss,” Selma Interim Superintendent Darryl Aikerson stated.
Authorities arrested a 17-year-old suspect on Saturday afternoon in connection with Acoff’s murder.
The suspect’s name has not been released due to their status as a juvenile.
The 17-year-old is currently being held without bond at the Perry County Detention Center, pending a court hearing.
At this time, police have not disclosed a motive for the shooting, and the investigation remains ongoing.
In light of the tragedy, Selma City Schools announced that grief counseling services will be available for students upon their return to school on Monday.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the shooting to contact the Selma Police Department as the investigation continues.