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Arrest Made in Missing Teen’s Case Following National Attention
The father of a 15-year-old girl, whose case garnered significant media coverage, has been taken into custody. He faces potential charges including child abduction, conspiracy, and filing a false police report.
On Friday, the Monterey Park Police Department reported that Jeffrey Chao was apprehended after what they described as an extensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding his daughter’s disappearance.
Alison Chao was reported missing on July 16 after she left her father’s residence on North Ynez Avenue. She was expected to arrive at her aunt’s home in nearby San Gabriel, approximately three miles away, but did not make it there.
The alert regarding Alison’s disappearance led to a citywide search effort involving community volunteers distributing flyers and conducting outreach in various neighborhoods. Public appeals for information also came from her mother, Annie Chao, who expressed her concerns through multiple media appearances.
Fortunately, Alison was located safely on Tuesday, found outside the entrance of a local television station in Glendale. However, the circumstances of her disappearance have since raised questions.
Alison’s parents are divorced, prompting speculation that the situation might have stemmed from a custody issue. According to Emily Robinson, an attorney serving as Alison’s court-appointed representative, Annie Chao has been granted sole physical custody aimed at ensuring Alison’s welfare.
Footage shared on social media reportedly shows police at Jeffrey Chao’s home, attempting to persuade Alison to leave with them, while a distressed voice can be heard refusing. This video is claimed to have been filmed the day prior to her being reported missing.
In a statement issued earlier this week, Robinson criticized various social media narratives as “misleading and inaccurate” and highlighted that such posts had obstructed search efforts.
“The inaccurate statements and misrepresentations hindered both the investigation into Alison’s whereabouts and the efforts by her family and the police to secure her safety,” Robinson elaborated.
Following the revelation of her daughter’s return, Annie Chao addressed the public, echoing Robinson’s concerns about misinformation circulating on social media. She emphasized the need to stop spreading unverified information regarding her family.
In her remarks, Annie described her daughter as a “young girl” and acknowledged that the realities surrounding their divorce have understandably complicated Alison’s feelings.
Both parents participated in a press conference on Tuesday, emphasizing their relief and gratitude following Alison’s safe return. However, details surrounding Jeffrey Chao’s arrest remain sparse, although the charges indicate investigators suspect he may have had a role in Alison’s alleged abduction.
The police have stated that their investigation is ongoing and declined to provide additional comments at this time.
As the inquiry continues, authorities are seeking any information that could shed light on the situation. Individuals with insights are encouraged to reach out to the Monterey Park Police Department at 626-307-1444.
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