KEY LARGO, Fla. (CBS12) — A Florida man is behind bars after deputies say a teenage girl was found hidden inside a clothes dryer in his home after calling 911 for help.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office said its deputies responded to a residence on Miramar Drive around 11:45 a.m. June 21, after receiving a call from a girl reporting she was being held against her will. When deputies arrived, they located the teen inside a clothes dryer.
Investigators identified the suspect as 53-year-old Christopher Michael Veit of Key Largo. Deputies say Veit restrained the girl, placed her in the dryer, and took her cellphone after she told him she wanted to leave.
Investigators identified the suspect as 53-year-old Christopher Michael Veit of Key Largo. Deputies say Veit restrained the girl, placed her in the dryer, and took her cellphone after she told him she wanted to leave. (MCSO)
The victim, who is from outside the county, did not suffer any life-threatening injuries, according to MCSO.
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Major Crimes detectives responded to the scene and collected evidence, including several sheets of counterfeit currency, according to the release. The U.S. Secret Service was notified as part of the investigation.
Detectives also determined there had been ongoing sexual activity between Veit and the minor, authorities said.
Veit was arrested and charged with kidnapping/false imprisonment, interference with child custody, and unlawful sexual activity with a minor, according to the sheriff’s office. He was taken to jail.
The girl was transported to Mariners Hospital in Tavernier before being released into the custody of a family member. The Florida Department of Children and Families was notified.
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Officials say the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be filed.