by Charlotte, North Carolina – A 10-month-old girl, Nalaya Crew, was safely recovered after authorities say she was allegedly kidnapped by a family member and their boyfriend in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) issued an Amber Alert following the abduction on Saturday, November 15, around 7 p.m. local time.
According to police, the child was taken by 19-year-old Michelle Hemphill and her 23-year-old boyfriend, Timothy Lee Smith Jr. Both suspects have since been taken into custody.
Child Located Unharmed
In an update on Sunday, November 16, CMPD confirmed that Nalaya Crew was found unharmed and has been reunited with her mother. The prompt response by law enforcement and the issuance of the Amber Alert were credited with the quick recovery.
Crew’s family reportedly had concerns about her safety with Hemphill, noting that she was currently homeless and lacked the means to provide for the child. Authorities stressed that swift reporting and community vigilance were key factors in resolving the case without harm to the infant.
Investigation Details
Police indicated that Hemphill was last seen entering a blue minivan, believed to have been driven by Smith, near the 6600 block of Monroe Road. CMPD continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged abduction and the involvement of both suspects.
Community Assistance Requested
Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the case to call 911 or contact CMPD directly at 704-336-7600. Community tips remain a critical part of investigations like this, ensuring the safety of vulnerable children and preventing further incidents.
Importance of Amber Alerts
The quick issuance of the Amber Alert played a significant role in the safe recovery of Nalaya Crew. Law enforcement agencies nationwide rely on these alerts to notify the public immediately when a child is at risk, leveraging both community awareness and rapid response to protect minors.
Reuniting Families and Public Safety
This incident highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and swift action in cases involving child safety. CMPD and local authorities continue to emphasize public cooperation in identifying and reporting suspicious activity, particularly when minors are involved.
Share Your Thoughts: What steps do you think communities should take to prevent abductions and ensure child safety? Comment below to discuss how families and law enforcement can work together to protect children in Charlotte, North Carolina.
