Missing Pennsylvania Teen Found Safe; Man Charged with Kidnapping and Rape
High Point, NC— A 15-year-old girl who went missing over a year ago has been located nearly 500 miles from her home in Pennsylvania, and a 32-year-old man has been charged with multiple serious offenses, including kidnapping and rape.
Background of the Case
The teenager, who has not been publicly identified, was reported as a runaway from Reading, Pennsylvania, in June 2022. After a year of searching, her situation took a turn for the better when police received a tip indicating she was in High Point, North Carolina. This crucial information led law enforcement directly to the home of Joseph A. Rossomando.
Arrest and Charges
On Monday, High Point police discovered the girl with Rossomando, who was subsequently arrested. During their search of his residence, officers uncovered child pornography and other alarming evidence of exploitation. The charges against Rossomando are extensive and include:
- Seven counts of statutory sex offense with a child under 15
- Seven counts of statutory rape of a child under 15
- Felony charges for trafficking a child victim, sexual servitude of a child victim, sexual exploitation of a minor, and first-degree kidnapping
Rossomando is currently in custody at the Guilford County Jail without bond.
Community Reaction
Local residents expressed shock upon hearing the news, particularly given the presence of several police officers living in the neighborhood. "It’s crazy to find out that our neighbor … is doing that type of stuff," one neighbor remarked. Another added, "We actually have cops that live in the neighborhood. It’s definitely not a norm to see police coming to houses here."
The police have stated that the girl is safe and is receiving appropriate support services as she begins to recover from her ordeal.
This investigation is ongoing, and police are seeking additional information related to the case. The High Point Police Department urges anyone with further details to come forward.
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