Missing North Carolina Teen Found in Florida with 37-Year-Old Man
In a dramatic turn of events, a 16-year-old girl from North Carolina, who had been missing for nearly three weeks, was discovered during a routine traffic stop in Florida. Authorities reported that the incident unfolded on Monday, March 9, when a deputy from the Putnam County Sheriff's Office observed a vehicle speeding on South US 17 near Crescent City and initiated a stop.
Deception and Discovery
The sheriff's office detailed that the passenger, later identified as the missing teenager, initially provided misleading information about her name and date of birth. The driver, 37-year-old Joshua Magraff from Charlotte, North Carolina, claimed the girl was his cousin. However, concerns were raised when the passenger allegedly gave a birth year suggesting she was only 12 years old, prompting immediate safety checks.
After being placed in the patrol car, the girl revealed her true identity. A subsequent verification confirmed she had been reported missing from North Carolina a month earlier. Her mother was contacted and affirmed she did not know Magraff and had filed a missing person report on February 16.
Changing Stories and Criminal Findings
When questioned by deputies, Magraff's account of his relationship with the teen allegedly shifted multiple times. He first described her as a friend, then asserted he believed she was 19 years old. According to the report, Magraff stated he was in Florida to engage in gambling games.
During a search of the vehicle, law enforcement uncovered 19 counterfeit $100 bills, synthetic marijuana, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. These findings led to additional charges beyond the initial concerns.
Legal Consequences and Custody
The Department of Children and Families was notified to take custody of the teenager until she could be safely reunited with her mother. Magraff was arrested and faces multiple charges, including:
- Interference in child custody
- Possession of synthetic marijuana
- Possession of counterfeit currency
- Contributing to the delinquency of a minor
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
He is currently held at the Putnam County Jail on a $9,000 bond, awaiting further legal proceedings. This case highlights the critical role of vigilant law enforcement in protecting vulnerable minors and addressing related criminal activities.
