A man accused of kidnapping a 9-year-old girl from Moreau Lake State Park in upstate New York has been charged with raping the child during the two days she was held captive, prosecutors announced Friday. The case, which began with a frantic search and a ransom note, has now taken a darker turn with the revelation of these horrifying new charges.
Craig Ross booking photo. (Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office)
Craig N. Ross Jr., initially charged with first-degree kidnapping, now faces additional charges including four counts of predatory sexual assault against a child, sexual abuse, assault, and endangering the welfare of a child. This escalation in charges follows the discovery of the young girl hidden inside a cabinet in Ross’s camper, two days after her abduction from the state park, located approximately 35 miles north of Albany.
The Abduction and Ransom Note
The girl vanished on the evening of September 30th while riding her bike with other children at the Moreau Lake State Park campground. After completing a loop with the group, she opted for one final solo ride, but failed to return. Approximately 15 minutes later, her parents, growing increasingly concerned, initiated a search. By the following morning, an Amber Alert had been issued, mobilizing over 100 law enforcement officers, forest rangers, and civilians. Drones, bloodhounds, and an airboat were deployed in the desperate search effort across the challenging terrain surrounding the park.
A crucial break in the case occurred when police, stationed at the girl’s home, witnessed someone depositing a ransom note in the family’s mailbox before dawn. Fingerprint analysis of the note linked it to Ross, whose fingerprints were in a database due to a prior 1999 drunk driving charge.
The Rescue and Subsequent Charges
This critical lead directed authorities to a camper where Ross was residing. State police troopers and an FBI SWAT team executed a raid, culminating in the girl’s rescue. She was found concealed within a cabinet inside the camper.
Following the rescue, Ross was immediately taken into custody. The initial kidnapping charge has now been compounded by the predatory sexual assault charges, painting a grim picture of the ordeal the young girl endured during her captivity. District Attorney Karen Heggen addressed reporters, emphasizing the heinous nature of the crimes committed against the child. She vowed to hold Ross fully accountable for his actions.
Moreau Lake State Park where the abduction took place.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation
Ross pleaded not guilty to all charges in Saratoga County Court. Attempts to reach his lawyer for comment have been made. Heggen reiterated her commitment to seeking justice for the victim and her family. The case is currently under active investigation, with authorities meticulously gathering evidence to build a strong case against Ross.
Impact on the Community and Beyond
This incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and sparked discussions about child safety and the importance of vigilance in public spaces. The case underscores the crucial role of law enforcement collaboration, exemplified by the joint efforts of state police and the FBI, in bringing perpetrators of such crimes to justice.
Looking Ahead
As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the young victim and providing the necessary support for her and her family. The case will undoubtedly continue to draw significant public attention, highlighting the devastating consequences of child abduction and sexual assault.
Conclusion
The kidnapping and subsequent sexual assault charges against Craig Ross represent a deeply disturbing case with far-reaching implications. The courage and resilience of the young victim, coupled with the swift actions of law enforcement, led to her rescue and the apprehension of the alleged perpetrator. As this case progresses through the legal system, the community and the nation will be watching closely, hoping for justice and healing for the victim and her family.
