A 15-year-old Southern California girl named Alison Jillian Chao was reported missing on July 16 and was found safe a week later. Her father, Jeffrey Chao, was arrested on suspicion of child abduction, falsifying a police report, and other offenses in connection with her disappearance. The Monterey Park Police Department thanked the public for their assistance and announced that Alison’s safety was ensured. The Investigations Bureau continues to investigate the incident, and the mother has sole legal custody of Alison for mental health reasons, with physical custody granted to her on a temporary basis last week.
Jeffrey Chao spoke at a news conference thanking the community for helping find his daughter, and his attorney stated that no foul play or kidnapping was suspected in the case. Alison was last seen riding a blue mountain bike and carrying a black backpack towards her aunt’s house in San Gabriel from her father’s home in Monterey Park, but she never arrived. Surveillance cameras captured her riding her bike in the neighborhood. She was eventually recognized by a resident in the Glendale area, who called authorities, leading to her safe return.
The father’s attorney explained the ongoing divorce proceedings and custody dispute between Alison’s parents. Alison had been living with her father until her mother was recently granted temporary custody just before her disappearance. Jeffery Chao was held without bail and declined to comment further on the charges against him. The community and police department are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents, and appreciate the continued support during the investigation.
The Monterey Park Police Department emphasized their dedicated efforts and collaboration with other agencies in resolving the critical situation and ensuring Alison’s safety. The case of Alison’s disappearance touched off requests for public assistance and searches organized by residents. Despite the ongoing investigation, the department did not provide further details at that time. Alison’s parents continue to navigate the legal proceedings surrounding their child custody arrangement, with her mother having sole legal custody due to mental health reasons.
Alison’s disappearance sparked concern and worry among her family and community, as she failed to arrive at her aunt’s house as planned. Despite being missing for about a week, she was eventually found safe after being recognized by a resident in the Glendale area. The teenager’s parents are dealing with a complicated custody dispute, with temporary physical custody granted to her mother shortly before her disappearance. Jeffrey Chao’s arrest on suspicion of child abduction and falsifying a police report shed light on the complexities of the family situation and legal proceedings.
