A 12-year-old boy from Oklahoma, who had been the subject of a widespread search, has been found safe. His discovery came days after his mother, Kimberly Cole, and stepfather, George Cole, were arrested on suspicion of child abuse, authorities reported on Sunday.
Search and Recovery
“After days of searching, after hope and prayer, we can say that the outcome that we were all hoping for has come true,” stated Hunter McKee, spokesperson for the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, during a news conference. The boy was located in Caddo County, Oklahoma, near the town of Cement.
Authorities confirmed the boy received a medical examination and was reported to be in “pretty good shape” and “good spirits.” Hundreds of volunteers participated in the search, and he was found around noon local time by members of the United Cajun Navy, a volunteer search-and-rescue group.
Arrests and Investigation
Kimberly Cole and George Cole were taken into custody on Wednesday facing complaints of child abuse, child sexual abuse, and conspiracy, according to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. McKee stated that during questioning, information emerged indicating “apparent harm done to this child while he was living with these two parents.”
Investigators executed search warrants prior to the arrests. Both Kimberly Cole and George Cole remain in custody at the Caddo County Jail, and the local district attorney intends to pursue the charges.
Next Steps
The child is now in the custody of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services. McKee affirmed that authorities will work closely with DHS to ensure the boy is placed in a safe and supportive environment. It is possible that further investigations will be conducted to determine the full extent of any harm the child may have experienced. A trial date for the parents could be set in the coming weeks, and the Department of Human Services will likely work to establish a long-term care plan for the boy.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the boy last seen?
The boy was last seen on January 2nd in Chickasha, Oklahoma, according to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.
What charges are the parents facing?
Kimberly Cole and George Cole are facing complaints of child abuse, child sexual abuse, and conspiracy, according to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.
Where is the boy now?
The boy is currently in the custody of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services.
What does a safe and supportive environment look like for a child who has experienced this type of trauma?