Suspect Pleads Not Guilty in Moreau Girl’s Abduction Case
OAN’s Stephanie Stahl
11:13 AM – Friday, November 17, 2023
The man accused of abducting a 9-year-old girl from Moreau Lake State Park in New York in September pleaded not guilty on Friday in Saratoga County Court.
Craig Ross Jr., 46, is suspected to have taken the young girl from the campgrounds as she rode her bike solo. However, Charlotte Sena was safely recovered two days after her disappearance. She was found on October 2nd in Ross’ mobile home in Milton.
Ross now faces a nine-count indictment with charges of 1st degree kidnapping, which carries a maximum sentence of 25 years to life.
According to police, Ross also faces multiple counts of predatory sexual assault against a child. His arrest was facilitated by a ransom note left in the Sena family’s mailbox, with fingerprints matching a 1999 DUI charge against him.
After the young girl was found, her mother Trisha and father David expressed their gratitude for everyone who worked tirelessly to locate their daughter.
“A huge thank you to the FBI, the New York State police, all of the agencies that were mobilized, all of the families, friends, community, neighbors and hundreds of volunteers who supported us and worked tirelessly to bring Charlotte home,” they said in a statement.
Following Ross’ court appearance, Saratoga County District Attorney Karen Heggen asserted that he would be held fully responsible for the crimes he is accused of.
“We will do it thoroughly and completely because of the work that has been done and continues to be done by law enforcement to hold this defendant who has committed a heinous terrible offense against a tender aged victim,” Heggen said.
We will hold him accountable and responsible,” Heggen added.
The matter was adjourned until Dec. 21st at 9:30 a.m. Meanwhile, the next court date is Jan. 2nd, 2024, for a hearing on whether a plea deal is on the table or not.
A trial has tentatively been scheduled for April 1st.
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How did the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies and the community contribute to the swift recovery of Charlotte Sena?
Someone moving forward is a positive and reassures parents of the safety of their children while camping or visiting recreational areas. It also sends a strong message that abductions will not be tolerated, and the perpetrators will be brought to justice.
The recovery of young Charlotte Sena is a testament to the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies, the community, and volunteers. The swift action and perseverance exhibited by the FBI, the New York State Police, and other agencies involved played a vital role in locating and rescuing Charlotte. Additionally, the support and dedication of the community, friends, and neighbors in assisting with the search efforts cannot be understated.
In a statement issued by Charlotte’s parents, Trisha and David, they expressed their profound gratitude to everyone involved in the search and rescue operation. They acknowledged the tireless efforts of law enforcement and the countless volunteers who aided in bringing their daughter home safely. This heartwarming display of community support highlights the strength and resilience of individuals when faced with adversity.
Moving forward, the judicial process will ensure that Craig Ross Jr. is held fully accountable for his alleged crimes. Saratoga County District Attorney Karen Heggen emphasized that the prosecution will be thorough and comprehensive, acknowledging the significant work conducted by law enforcement in building a solid case against Ross. The charges of first-degree kidnapping and predatory sexual assault against a child carry severe penalties, including a maximum sentence of 25 years to life.
The arrest of Craig Ross Jr. serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and reporting any suspicious activities promptly. In this case, the discovery of a ransom note and the subsequent fingerprint match to Ross’s previous criminal record contributed significantly to his identification and detainment. It demonstrates that information provided by community members can play a critical role in law enforcement investigations and helping to keep our communities safe.
As the legal proceedings continue, it is imperative that we continue to prioritize the safety and security of our children. Parents should remain vigilant and educate their children about personal safety measures, including the importance of staying in groups and notifying adults of their whereabouts when participating in outdoor activities. Additionally, community organizations and law enforcement agencies should work collaboratively to implement safety protocols and raise awareness about potential risks to children in recreational areas.
In conclusion, the abduction and subsequent recovery of Charlotte Sena from Moreau Lake State Park in New York serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of community support and swift law enforcement response in safeguarding our children. The arrest and pending prosecution of Craig Ross Jr. underscore the commitment to holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. This incident highlights the resilience of individuals and the significance of community involvement in maintaining the safety of our children. By working together, we can create an environment where our children can thrive without fear.
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