KEY LARGO, FL – A 53-year-old Florida man is behind bars after authorities discovered a missing teenage girl hidden inside a clothes dryer at a Key Largo residence on Sunday.
The 911 Distress Call
The incident unfolded around 11:45 a.m. Sunday, when the teenage victim managed to call 911, reporting that she was being held hostage at a home on Miramar Drive.
Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) deputies rushed to the scene. During a search of the property, investigators found the girl restrained and hidden inside a clothes dryer.
Severe Charges and Investigation
The suspect, identified as Christopher Michael Veit, faces multiple felony charges, including:
- Kidnapping
- False imprisonment
- Unlawful sexual activity with a minor
According to investigators, Veit allegedly confiscated the girl’s cellphone after she expressed a desire to leave the home. Officials later uncovered evidence pointing to an ongoing sexual relationship between Veit and the minor, who is not a resident of Key Largo.
Counterfeit Money Discovered
While processing the crime scene, MCSO detectives uncovered “several sheets” of counterfeit currency. The discovery has prompted the involvement of the U.S. Secret Service alongside local authorities.
The Florida Department of Children and Families was also notified immediately following the rescue.
Victim Status
The teenage girl was transported to a local hospital for a medical evaluation. Authorities confirmed she did not sustain life-threatening injuries and has since been released into the custody of a family member.
Veit remains in custody, and officials state that additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
