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.
CHICAGO, IL — A man was found shot to death Friday night on Chicago’s South Side, prompting a homicide investigation by Area One detectives, according to the Chicago Police Department.
Officers responded to reports of gunfire in the 900 block of West 63rd Parkway in the Englewood neighborhood at approximately 10:00 p.m.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a 36-year-old male victim suffering from gunshot wounds to the head and neck.
Emergency medical personnel were called to the scene, but the victim was pronounced dead on arrival.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office later identified him as Emerald Pretty, age 36.
According to preliminary information, a male suspect exited a white sedan, approached the victim, and opened fire before fleeing the scene in the same vehicle.
No arrests have been made at this time, and Area One detectives are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Authorities have not released details on a possible motive or whether the incident may have been targeted.
Police are urging anyone with information to contact the Chicago Police Department’s Area One Bureau of Detectives or submit an anonymous tip through CPD’s tip line or Crime Stoppers.