Missing for Over Seven Years Child Found Safe in Humboldt Park as Mother and Sibling Are Taken into Custody

Shocking Discovery in Humboldt Park After Years of Search

A long-missing child has been found alive in a Humboldt Park residence on Chicago’s Northwest Side, ending a search that lasted more than seven years. The child had first been reported missing in 2018, when they were still an infant. Authorities have now confirmed the arrest of the child’s biological mother and an older sibling, who was wanted for a serious criminal offense.

Child First Reported Missing in 2018

The case began on May 23, 2018, when the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) reported an infant missing from their care. The child had been placed in state custody after being diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease, and suspicions arose that they were with their biological mother — a situation DCFS had deemed unsafe.

Before the child could be recovered, the mother evaded authorities, prompting a lengthy legal and investigative process. Over the years, efforts to locate both the child and mother continued quietly behind the scenes.

Arrest Warrant Issued Against Mother

On May 7 of this year, the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office issued an arrest warrant for the mother on charges of contempt of court. This came after a prolonged court battle aimed at ensuring the child’s return to state custody.

In early July, the Chicago Police Department enlisted the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service to track down the child. Their investigation led them to a residence in the Humboldt Park neighborhood, believed to be housing the missing child along with family members.

Surveillance Confirms Mother's Presence

Authorities began monitoring the home in early July. They observed several individuals, including children and adults, coming and going — among them, the child’s older sibling, who had an outstanding warrant for aggravated criminal sexual assault of a minor.

By July 17, a second round of surveillance was initiated. This time, officers witnessed the mother leaving the residence with a stroller, accompanied by a teenager and a younger child closely matching the description of the missing individual.

Authorities Move In

Law enforcement officials approached the group, taking the mother into custody. During questioning, a false name was initially given for the child. However, when investigators used the child's actual name, the child appeared surprised, then confirmed their identity.

Inside the stroller were two additional children — an infant and a toddler — and the teenager was identified as another sibling. Given the concerning circumstances, DCFS took all of the minors, including the teen, into protective custody.

Legal Consequences and Next Steps

The mother was transported to Cook County Jail and booked on outstanding warrants. The missing child, still considered a ward of the state, has now been safely returned to DCFS custody.

The very next day, the older sibling — wanted for a serious charge of aggravated criminal sexual assault — was arrested as well.

This remarkable recovery closes a long and troubling chapter while raising serious questions about how a child could remain hidden for so many years. Investigations into the conditions of the children and the role of the adults involved are ongoing.