Sioux Falls police apprehended a 53-year-old woman on charges of First Degree Kidnapping and Abuse or Cruelty to a Minor early Sunday morning.
The incident unfolded around 4:30 a.m. when an officer spotted a woman walking with a young child along Cliff Ave. in the vicinity of 8th Street. Alarmed by their presence on the road, the officer approached them, only to be met with confusing and conflicting information from the woman.
Further investigation revealed that the 5-year-old girl in the woman’s company had originated from a nearby residence. Although the woman was related to the child, she lacked any legal guardianship rights and was not authorized to have custody of the girl. It became evident that the woman had been staying at the girl’s home and had forcibly taken her without permission.
Fortunately, the child emerged from the incident unharmed. According to Police Spokesperson Sam Clemens, the child was found wrapped in a blanket but without any clothing.
The suspect, identified as Sioux Falls resident Jewel Gary, was taken into custody on charges of First Degree Kidnapping and Abuse or Cruelty to a Minor. At this time, authorities have not disclosed any motive behind Gary’s actions.