The New York State Police reported that Charlotte Sena was found and is in good health. A man, identified as Craig Nelson Ross (47 years old), was arrested for being allegedly responsible for her kidnapping.
State Governor Kathy Hochul reported that the suspect's fingerprints were found on a ransom note that was left in a mailbox at the girl's parents' home. "He literally drove up to the family’s mailbox assuming they were not home," the governor said in a statement reported by CNN.
Hochul also thanked police officers for their search efforts. "We are overjoyed at the news that Charlotte Sena has been located safely this evening after an intense days-long search. Our hearts are with her family as they welcome her home," the governor said in a statement published on the official state website.
Thank you to the New York State Police, New York Park Police and all who worked so tirelessly to find Charlotte. It is because of their efforts that Charlotte will be able to return home safe to her family.
Police explained that the kidnapping occurred near Moreau Lake State Park, Loop A. "New York State Police have activated the state's Amber Alert and are investigating a child abduction that occurred near Moreau Lake State Park, Loop A, Site 18, in Gansevoort, New York, at about 6:45 p.m. September 30, 2023."
Governor Kathy Hochul met with the girl's parents. In addition, she reported that more than 100 people and 75 law enforcement officers were deployed in the search, which also included dogs, two drones, two boats and six underwater rescue teams.
