South Haven sex offender arrested for ties to missing 14-year-old he met online
-
2:15
Concerns for rise in gun violence after five-year-old injured...
-
2:39
Early voting ahead of May primary
-
2:41
Questions remain after missing 15-year-old Benton Harbor boy...
-
3:24
Landlords feel ’forced’ to raise rent amid rising property...
-
2:15
Two rounds of storms Tuesday
-
1:31
Benton Harbor Area Schools washing away worries for families...
-
2:12
Quiet today, storm threat tomorrow and Wednesday
-
3:50
Plymouth community hosts 5K in the fight against ALS
-
2:10
Sunny Monday ahead, but showers and thunderstorms later this...
-
2:10
Plymouth High School hosts ’Steps for Stegs’
-
2:05
Drier but cooler to wrap up the weekend
-
6:23
ABC57’s Arts and Acts: Local dance stars shine at A&A Ballet...
VAN BUREN COUNTY, Mich. - A South Haven man is facing several charges after he allegedly drove from Michiana to Washington state to pick up a 14-year-old girl he met online and bring her back to his home.
The suspect, 30-year-old Keith Freerksen, is a registered sex offender. He was arrested after authorities found the missing girl at his house on Blue Highway.
Freerksen allegedly started a social media relationship with the Mount Vernon girl several months ago. After gaining the victim’s trust, Freerksen was able to bring her back to South Haven.
The girl was reported missing on January 6.
While the victim’s mother is grateful to have her daughter back, she knows not everyone returns home safely.
“How many more families have to suffer the way mine has? The lack of accountability not only puts my child at risk for online predation but leaves all children at the mercy of those who seek them out online.”
Freerksen will face charges in both Michigan and Washington. He’s been denied bond and is expected back in court on February 14.