Native American Teen Allegedly Trafficked & Assaulted by Marine at Camp Pendleton: Aunt Demands Accountability
A 14-year-old Native American girl who had been missing for nearly two months was found inside Camp Pendleton barracks, where her aunt alleges she was trafficked and assaulted by a Marine. Cassaundra Perez, the girl’s aunt, spoke to reporters expressing her frustration at the lack of transparency in the investigation being conducted by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), demanding more action to protect Native American children from sex traffickers.
The teenager had run away from home in early June, and it wasn’t until late June that she was discovered at Camp Pendleton. Military Police took a Marine into custody for questioning, but no charges have been filed. Perez claims that her niece was interrogated by Military Police without her guardian present, despite being a minor. Perez also revealed that her niece had been taken to Camp Pendleton the day before being found, suggesting a sinister coercion tactic by the perpetrators of sex trafficking.
The news conference, held by the group COMMUNITYx, aimed to bring transparency to the investigation and push for the issuance of a Military Protective Order (MPO) to protect the victim. Chloe Cheyenne, the founder and CEO of COMMUNITYx, explained that an MPO would not only act as a restraining order but also provide resources for the victim, who is currently receiving counseling from her tribe.
Perez claimed that the investigation had only begun the previous week, though NCIS stated that it had been initiated the day the girl was found and remains active in collaboration with the San Diego Sheriff’s Department and the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force. More than 7,000 people have signed a petition demanding a prompt and impartial investigation, as well as measures to safeguard children.
The case highlights the pressing need for comprehensive measures to protect Native American children, who are particularly vulnerable to sex trafficking. It is crucial for law enforcement agencies to work closely with communities, ensuring transparency and cooperation to bring the perpetrators to justice and provide support for the victims.
The investigation into the alleged trafficking and assault continues, and NCIS has emphasized its commitment to thoroughly investigating all allegations of criminal behavior that threaten the safety of children. As the case unfolds, it is important to prioritize the well-being and security of Native American children, taking steps that will effectively combat sex trafficking and prevent future cases.
By shedding light on the heartbreaking reality faced by this teenage girl and her family, it is hoped that justice will be served, accountability will be demanded, and steps will be taken to protect vulnerable children from such heinous crimes.
