Girl, 13, who went missing after meeting a man online is found alive in a box at his home several states away in Pennsylvania

Teen Rescued After Online Predation Leads to Multi-State Human Trafficking Case

A 13-year-old girl from Louisiana was found alive but confined inside a box at a residence in Pennsylvania, several states away from her home, after disappearing following contact with a man she met online. Authorities uncovered disturbing evidence indicating she had been sexually abused during her ordeal.

Suspect Arrested on Multiple Serious Charges

Ki-Shawn Crumity, 26, was apprehended by Pittsburgh police on October 30 and faces a series of grave charges including human trafficking, sexual assault, unlawful contact with a minor, and corruption of a child. As of November 1, law enforcement agencies across several states have detained at least three individuals connected to this case, highlighting the extensive scope of the investigation.

Attorney General Highlights the Perils of Online Exploitation

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill emphasized the dangers posed by social media platforms, stating, “This young girl was manipulated, exploited, and sexually abused by strangers she encountered online. Her case exemplifies the critical risks of human trafficking facilitated through digital channels.”

Timeline and Discovery of the Victim

The teenager, a resident of Baker, Louisiana, vanished around October 20 after establishing contact with Crumity via social media. Investigators tracked her movements across multiple states, culminating in a breakthrough on October 30 when Pittsburgh police, acting on intelligence from federal agents, located her in Crumity’s basement in the Brighton Park neighborhood. She was found inside a box covered with a sheet, a harrowing testament to her captivity.

Medical Examination Confirms Abuse

Following her rescue, the girl was immediately transported to a hospital where medical professionals confirmed signs of sexual assault. The evidence collected has been pivotal in advancing the criminal case against Crumity.

Details from the Victim’s Account

According to a criminal complaint reported by Pittsburgh news outlet WTAE, the girl provided a detailed statement to investigators. She revealed that she initially connected with Crumity on Snapchat, where he falsely promised to facilitate her adoption by a trustworthy adult. She traveled to Pittsburgh by Greyhound bus, and upon arrival, stayed in the basement with Crumity and another woman.

The victim disclosed that Crumity administered cannabis-infused edibles to her and subjected her to repeated sexual assaults over approximately one week. She described the hospital as the only place where she felt safe after her rescue.

Additional Arrests and Ongoing Investigation

In a related development, Ronald Smith, 62, was arrested in Columbus, Georgia, for his involvement in the girl’s temporary disappearance. Smith, along with Alvin Hanson, 64, allegedly transported the girl from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to Georgia before placing her on a bus heading north. Smith faces charges of simple kidnapping and contributing to the delinquency of a minor, while Hanson was arrested in New Orleans on similar charges.

Authorities anticipate further arrests as the investigation continues. Reports indicate that at the time of the rescue, a man and a woman from the Washington, D.C. area were present in Crumity’s basement, suggesting a broader network of individuals involved in this trafficking operation.

Raising Awareness on Online Safety and Human Trafficking

This case underscores the urgent need for increased vigilance regarding children’s online interactions and the persistent threat of human trafficking. According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, over 11,500 cases were reported in 2023 alone, reflecting a growing challenge for law enforcement and communities nationwide.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to educate children about the risks of engaging with strangers on social media and to monitor their online activities closely. Enhanced cooperation between federal, state, and local agencies remains crucial in combating these crimes and protecting vulnerable youth.