In a recent news release from the New York State Police, it has been confirmed that the suspect apprehended in connection with the disappearance of Charlotte Sena has been charged with first-degree kidnapping. Authorities also anticipate levying additional charges in the near future.
The suspect in question, Craig Nelson Ross Jr., 47, was taken into custody on Monday evening after 6:30 p.m., according to the press release. During a press conference held on Monday night, New York Governor Kathy Hochul revealed that the suspect’s fingerprints matched those found on a ransom note allegedly sent by him, as previously reported by PEOPLE.
The nine-year-old Charlotte Sena went missing on Saturday evening while riding her bike near Moreau Lake State Park in Gansevoort, N.Y. Remarkably, she was found alive on Monday night, thanks to the efforts of the New York State Police and an AMBER Alert.
Governor Hochul mentioned during the press conference that Charlotte is currently in good hands and appeared to be physically unharmed at the time. She has since been transported to a hospital for further evaluation.
According to The Times-Union, Ross was arraigned at approximately 3:40 a.m. and is currently being held without bail in the Saratoga County Jail.
Stay up to date with the latest crime news by signing up for PEOPLE’s complimentary True Crime newsletter. This newsletter provides breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage, and details on intriguing unsolved cases.
Craig Ross Jr., who is currently detained on kidnapping charges related to the Charlotte Sena case, is currently being held in the Saratoga County Jail.
Governor Hochul revealed that the fingerprint found on the ransom note matched one obtained from a 1999 DWI arrest in Saratoga. This crucial discovery led the authorities to Ross’ mother’s residence, where he was eventually found inside a camper parked at the rear of the property on Sunday evening, as stated by the governor.
The desperate pleas of Charlotte’s mother, “I Just Want My Daughter Back,” have resonated with the public, highlighting the grave danger her daughter faced. Fortunately, due to the swift actions of law enforcement, Charlotte was successfully rescued from her captor.
To support Charlotte’s family during this challenging time, a GoFundMe page has been established.
