NORTHVILLE TWP, Mich. (WXYZ) — A teen from West Michigan was rescued after two days in the basement of a Metro Detroit home. Police say she was a victim of online grooming and sexual assault by a 22-year-old man.
Charles Willis allegedly kidnapped the 14-year-old a week ago from her home in Barry County, according to the Northville Township Police Department. FOX 17 is choosing to not specify where the teen lives since she is a victim of a crime.
Detectives say Willis – pictured above – had contacted the teen on Snapchat. Willis then allegedly took a two hour Uber ride to the meet up with the teen, before the two of them rode another two hours back to his home, according to police.
Willis told the victim to stay in the basement, said investigators. She was found walking alone around the area of 7 Mile and Sheldon roads at 5:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 27, two days after Willis reached out to her.
Willis was arrested after the Northville Township Police Department executed a search warrant at his home.
In Wayne County's 35th District Court earlier this week, the 22-year-old was charged with nine felony charges, including:
- Kidnapping
- Enticing a girl under 16 for immoral purposes
- Child sexually abusive activity
- Criminal Sexual Conduct (First Degree)
Willis is currently being held at the Wayne County Jail, with his bond set at $1 million. He is scheduled for a court appearance next week, per court records.
Because of previous run-ins with police in regards to contacting minors, police believe there may be other victims in this case.
Anyone who believes that they or their child has been in contact with Willis is asked to contact the Northville Township Police Department's Detective Bureau at (248) 349-9400.
