St. Clair County, MO — The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office announces that deputies successfully located an abducted one‑year‑old child reported missing out of Benton County. The child was found safely in a rural area of St. Clair County following an intensive, multi‑agency search effort.
Upon receiving the request for assistance from Benton County authorities, St. Clair County deputies immediately mobilized and began canvassing remote locations throughout the county.
Sheriff Lee Hilty commended the deputies for their dedication and swift action, noting that their determination played a critical role in bringing the child to safety.
“Our deputies went above and beyond in their efforts to locate this child,” Sheriff Hilty said. “Their commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community is something I am incredibly proud of.”
The child was recovered unharmed and has been reunited with the appropriate authorities for further care and evaluation. The investigation into the abduction remains ongoing under the jurisdiction of Benton County.
The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office extends its gratitude to all agencies and community members who assisted in the search.
