Suspected kidnapper arrested for sexual abuse

SMITH COUNTY — A California man has been arrested in connection with the disappearance of a Smith County teen who has since been found, according to a report from our news partner KETK.

The Smith County Sheriff’s Office said a 15-year-old from the Bullard area was reported missing after last being seen on July 26 at around 11 p.m. She was later found across state lines and her suspected kidnapper, Brian Chavez, was arrested in Placentia, Calif., on July 30 at around 3 a.m.

Authorities said Chavez now faces three criminal charges in Smith County involving sexual abuse of a minor under the age of 16, according to the Smith County Sheriff’s Office.

The sheriff’s office released the following video during the teen’s disappearance, which shows a man entering her residence.

Smith County Crimes Against Children Investigators were able to track down Chavez as he moved across state lines. The sheriff’s office worked alongside the Anaheim Police Department in this case.

“We appreciate the efforts of the Anaheim Police Department for their quick and timely assistance with the apprehension of Brian Chavez and for taking [the teen] into protective custody,” the sheriff’s office said. “She is now safely back home with her parents.”