James & Robin Kite
Two adults have been arrested for their role in harboring a missing juvenile.
On August 17th, 2022, Dalia Martinez-Lopez was reported missing. An extensive investigation was conducted by CCSO detectives and Dalia was located at a friend’s residence on August 21, 2022. During the investigation, detectives had previously been to the friend’s house to inquire if they had any knowledge of Dalia’s whereabouts. Instead of cooperating with detectives or expressing any concern for Dalia’s safety, the parents of Dalia’s friend, James and Robin Kite, assisted Dalia with hiding from detectives in their home.
The investigation revealed that these adults willingly kept Dalia from her parents, and lied to detectives in an attempt to cover it up. They now face criminal charges for interfering with custody.
“I am thankful Dalia is safe,” said Sheriff Mark Hunter in a statement. “Not knowing if your child is safe has to be the worst feeling a parent can experience. It disappoints me that people who are parents themselves, would intentionally work against law enforcement and deprive other parents of that peace of mind.”
Florida Statute: 787.03 Interference with custody.—
(1) Whoever, without lawful authority, knowingly or recklessly takes or entices, or aids, abets, hires, or otherwise procures another to take or entice, any minor or any incompetent person from the custody of the minor’s or incompetent person’s parent, his or her guardian, a public agency having the lawful charge of the minor or incompetent person, or any other lawful custodian commits the offense of interference with custody and commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
