A man has been arrested and charged with kidnapping and assaulting a 14-year-old girl who was found locked in a storage closet. The incident happened in Colorado Springs, where the girl had been missing for several weeks.
According to court documents, 41-year-old Steven D. Oakley was taken into custody after police received a tip that led them to a storage unit at an apartment complex. When officers arrived, they discovered the teenage girl inside a closet. She appeared scared, malnourished, and had signs of physical abuse.
Investigators said Oakley had kept the girl against her will and assaulted her multiple times. Police believe the girl was targeted by Oakley after she ran away from home.
They are still trying to confirm how he made contact with her. Authorities said the girl had limited access to food and water and was not allowed to leave the unit.
The girl was immediately taken to a hospital for treatment and is now recovering in a safe place. She told detectives that she feared for her life and was threatened if she tried to escape.
Oakley faces several serious charges, including kidnapping, sexual assault, and child abuse. He is currently being held in jail without bond. The investigation is still ongoing, and more charges could be filed.
Officials praised the person who gave the tip, saying it may have saved the girl’s life. Law enforcement also reminded the public to report anything suspicious, especially when it involves missing children.
The case has shocked the local community, with many expressing concern about the safety of vulnerable children. Police are urging parents to be alert and talk to their children about staying safe.
The district attorney’s office is working closely with police to prepare the case. Oakley is expected to appear in court later this week. If convicted, he could face a lengthy prison sentence.