Vallejo Police Rescue Missing Juvenile from Hotel, Suspect Arrested

URGENT UPDATE: A missing juvenile from Riverside County was rescued from a hotel in Vallejo, California, where she was allegedly held and sexually exploited. Vallejo police acted swiftly after receiving a tip from a family member, leading to the arrest of the suspected kidnapper, Justen Allen Powell, aged 26, outside the hotel room.

This critical operation took place in the 400 block of Fairgrounds Drive after police confirmed the juvenile was at high risk for sexual exploitation. Officers quickly located her, ensuring her immediate safety. Investigators revealed that the child had been transported across multiple cities, including the Los Angeles region, Fresno, and Richmond before ending up in Vallejo.

Through thorough interviews and evidence collection, police learned that the juvenile had met Powell in Southern California. Evidence suggests she was sexually assaulted under conditions of intimidation and control, severely restricting her ability to escape.

The juvenile is now safe and in the custody of Solano County Child Protective Services. Meanwhile, Powell has been arrested and booked into Solano County Jail. He faces serious charges, including pimping, pandering, corporal injuries to a child, false imprisonment with violence, kidnapping, and unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor. Powell’s criminal history includes previous convictions for assault and gun crimes.

“Human trafficking is a serious crime that affects communities throughout our region, and Vallejo is not immune,” stated Vallejo Police Chief Jason Ta.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about this case or potential human trafficking incidents in Vallejo to contact 911 or the Vallejo Police Department Communications Division at (707) 552-3285. Anonymous tips can be submitted at 1-800-488-9383.

As this investigation develops, the focus remains on the safety of vulnerable individuals and the fight against human trafficking in the community. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.