Full Breakdown
California Girl Kidnapped in 2020 Found Safe in North Carolina
3/13/2026, 3:05:20 AM
Discovery of Karen Rojas
Karen Rojas, a girl who was kidnapped from Duarte, California, when she was just 5 years old, has been found safe in Washington County, North Carolina. Authorities located Rojas, now 11, on a Tuesday after receiving a tip that she was living in the area under an alias and enrolled in a local school. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services had previously notified Washington County law enforcement about the possibility of her presence in the state.
Background of the Case
Rojas was reported missing on June 2, 2020, after her mother, who had custody, ceased communication with child welfare officials. Investigators believe the mother fled California to avoid potential removal of Rojas from her care. The case went cold for several years until a new tip prompted authorities to investigate further.
Investigation and Coordination
The Washington County Sheriff's Office confirmed that Rojas had been living in the area for several years with her mother. Sheriff Arlo Norman stated, “Thank God that everything worked out and it lined up,” emphasizing the rarity of such positive outcomes in long-standing missing persons cases. The investigation involved coordination between multiple agencies, including the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office, which forwarded the tip to local authorities in North Carolina.
Current Status and Legal Proceedings
Rojas is currently in protective custody, while her mother, who was with her at the time of the discovery, is not in custody but is under investigation. Authorities are working with the district attorney and child welfare officials to determine the next steps and potential charges. Due to the sensitive nature of the case and the age of the child, further details have not been disclosed.
Criticism & Opposition
While the outcome of Rojas' case is viewed positively by law enforcement, there are concerns regarding the circumstances that led to her kidnapping. Critics argue that more proactive measures could have been taken by child welfare agencies to prevent such situations from occurring in the first place.
Official Statements
The Washington County Sheriff's Office remarked on the significance of the case, stating, “These are very rare occurrences to have such a positive outcome on such an old case as this, but it reminds us that through hard work, and dedication, and cooperation, stories with positive outcomes like these can happen.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “Thank God that everything worked out and it lined up,” — Sheriff Arlo Norman, Washington County
- “If you think you know something or you think it could be a possibility, speak up and say something,” — Sheriff Arlo Norman, Washington County
What's Next
As the investigation continues, a representative from the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services is expected to travel to North Carolina to assist with the case. Authorities are also encouraging the public to report any information related to missing persons cases.
