Yuma, AZ - A Yuma girl missing for 4 years has been returned and the person who is charged with kidnapping her is now in jail.
The Yuma Police Department says the mother Crystal Lopez actually turned herself into authorities at the San Luis, Arizona Port of entry with her daughter Damaris Herrera.
"Damaris was with her and healthy and though she's 13 now, she was taken into custody by child protective services," ," says Sergeant Clint Norred with YPD.
On other hand Lopez was booked into the Yuma County Jail on charges of kidnapping, fraudulent schemes, custodial interference and child support. She made her initial court appearance this morning and remains in custody on a 600-thousand dollar bond.
YPD says the original case began in December of 2008.
"The mom and dad were trying to do a custody exchange and she basically ran off and was reported missing but investigations later revealed the mom knew where she was," says Sergeant Norred.
They say investigations later revealed Lopez fled with Damaris to Mexico.
"It's a felony offense. She took the child and also took her out of the country, so these charges are very serious. They are felonies and right now it's just the beginning part of the legal process or Ms. Lopez," says Sergeant Norred.
YPD says it's too early to say if Damaris will be returned to her father. They say she will remain in child protective services until further notice.
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