Ogden family’s interaction with police reveals events preceding AMBER Alert
A recently released video demonstrates the sequence of events that occurred between the police and a family in Ogden that resulted in the issuance of an AMBER Alert for a 13-year-old girl on the day before Thanksgiving. The incident led to the arrest of Christopher Thomas Wiggins, 33, who was found with the girl near Fort Collins, Colorado, shortly after the alert was sent out on November 26.
The body camera footage reveals an Ogden Police Department officer engaging in a conversation with the girl’s family, who seemed composed despite the child’s disappearance. The officer primarily conversed with the girl’s mother, who initially described Wiggins as a friend who had been residing in an external camper on the family property for a few months. Following some concerning remarks made by Wiggins, the family warned him against being alone with the children. The girl’s parents noted that the girl had disclosed intimate encounters with Wiggins.
The family recounted discovering the absence of both the girl and Wiggins that morning after searching various nearby locations without success. The father of the girl mentioned that she was always eager to accompany Wiggins, implying a close bond between them. The mother also recounted an incident where Wiggins apparently tracked the girl via her phone during a conversation inside a vehicle, which made her feel uneasy.
Further investigation of the trailer where Wiggins resided led the police to discover condoms, bullets, and a note addressed to the girl expressing profound emotions such as “You are my everything,” “I can’t possibly live without you,” and “I will sacrifice everything to be with you forever.” Upon the issuance of the AMBER Alert, the girl was found unharmed in Colorado, and Wiggins was charged with child kidnapping.
The unfolding events and details surrounding the AMBER Alert serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers and vulnerabilities that children may face in their interactions with others. The significance of continually fostering open communication and trust within families to ensure the safety and well-being of children cannot be overstated. It is essential for parents and guardians to remain vigilant and attentive to warning signs or concerning behavior that could potentially threaten their children’s safety. The cooperation between law enforcement agencies and families in such situations highlights the critical role of timely intervention and swift action to mitigate risks and protect children from harm.