Crescent City, Florida – A routine traffic stop on U.S. 17 led deputies to recover a missing North Carolina teenager.
According to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy stopped a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on South U.S. 17 near Crescent City late Sunday evening.
Deputy Chewning reportedly observed the vehicle slowing but still initiated the traffic stop after the car continued traveling above the speed limit.
Authorities said the passenger initially provided misleading information about her identity and date of birth. The driver, identified as Joshua Magraff, 37, of Charlotte, North Carolina, allegedly told the deputy the girl was his 16-year-old cousin.
Investigators said the passenger later gave multiple different names and birth dates, including a date that would have made her 12 years old, raising concerns for deputies.
After the teen was placed in the patrol vehicle, she reportedly revealed her real name. A records search showed she had been reported missing in North Carolina about a month earlier, according to the sheriff’s office. Deputies contacted the girl’s mother, who confirmed the missing person report filed on Feb. 16.
During questioning, Magraff allegedly changed his explanation of how he knew the girl, first stating she was a friend and later claiming he believed she was 19.
Deputies said Magraff also stated he was in Florida to gamble.
A search of the vehicle reportedly uncovered 19 counterfeit $100 bills, synthetic marijuana, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia, according to authorities.
Magraff was arrested and charged with interference with child custody, possession of synthetic marijuana, possession of counterfeit currency, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was booked into the Putnam County Jail on a $9,000 bond.
The teen was turned over to the Florida Department of Children and Families until she can be reunited with her mother.
Officials say the investigation is ongoing.
Young drivers and students often travel through the U.S. 17 corridor connecting small Northeast Florida communities.
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