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Teen Victim Leaves DNA Evidence Amid Alleged Kidnapping and Assault

Authorities are investigating a troubling case involving a 13-year-old girl who reportedly removed strands of her hair to ensure her DNA was left behind at the residence of a 19-year-old man accused of sexual assault. This incident underscores the alarming trend of youth being targeted through social media platforms.

Angel Lopez, the accused, allegedly initiated contact with the girl through TikTok, engaging in conversations that spanned four days. The Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office detailed in a statement released on March 27, he then offered to cover her Uber fare from Westmoreland County to his home in Philadelphia, where he allegedly assaulted her after offering her drugs.

Lopez’s recent court appearance on April 10 for a preliminary hearing was reported by WTAE. He faces multiple charges that include kidnapping a minor, trafficking, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a person under 16, and several other serious offenses related to the exploitation of minors.

According to the victim’s testimony, Lopez attempted to instill fear by stating, “They won’t be able to find you anyway.” After the alleged assault, he purportedly instructed her on how to erase evidence of his DNA. The District Attorney’s office revealed that the young girl strategically left behind her hair to ensure her DNA could be traced back to her in case she went missing.

Detective Sergeant Justin Scalzo from the Greensburg police department commented on the situation, expressing concern over Lopez’s manipulative tactics. “He had mentioned to her that nobody would ever find her,” Scalzo explained. This alarming remark motivated the victim to strategically leave strands of her hair around the apartment in hopes of being found if necessary.

Lopez reportedly discouraged the girl from taking any electronic devices on the trip, further isolating her from potential help. In an exchange of over 1,800 printed messages during their four-day communication, explicit content reportedly emerged, leading the relationship to turn sexual prior to the victim’s arrival in Philadelphia. The victim expressed her reluctance to meet Lopez, to which he allegedly responded with threats to harm himself if she did not comply, as reported by KDKA News.

On March 14, the victim’s family reported her missing. Utilizing technology, police tracked her phone to Lopez’s apartment, leading to the ongoing investigation.

Lopez remains in custody at Westmoreland County Prison, with the next court date scheduled for May 14. As the case continues, community members and authorities alike are reflecting on the important conversations surrounding online safety for minors.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, please contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit rainn.org.

Source
people.com