A 14-year-old girl, who ran away from her grandmother’s home in Spring Valley, was discovered inside the barracks at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton last week, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department (SDSO). The girl’s disappearance was reported to the sheriff’s department four days after she went missing. The grandmother mentioned that the teen had previously run away but always returned home quickly.
The girl, who has learning disabilities, was found on June 28 by military police, and her aunt claims that she was a victim of human trafficking. The SDSO clarified that their involvement was limited to recovering the juvenile as she was listed as missing from their jurisdiction. However, they confirmed their support for the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) and the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force.
A photo circulated on social media on July 2 showing a handcuffed Marine being escorted by military police on the base on June 28. The Marine, affiliated with Combat Logistics Battalion 5, 1st Marine Logistics Group, was taken into custody for questioning by NCIS. The Camp Pendleton sex trafficking issue remains under investigation.
The Marine, whose identity remains undisclosed and no official charges have been filed as of Monday, is currently in the custody of his command. The girl’s aunt expressed concerns over the security’s role in allowing a minor onto the base without appropriate consent.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sex trafficking, seek help and support today. The Women’s Rights Group is here to assist survivors in filing for financial compensation and providing essential resources. You are not alone—reach out now to begin healing and seeking justice.
