Deputies in the Florida Keys say a Sunday call for help turned into a harrowing rescue after they pulled a teenage girl from a clothes dryer inside a Miramar Drive home in Key Largo. The 53-year-old man who lives there was arrested at the scene. Investigators say the girl managed to place an emergency call from inside the appliance, and first responders took her to Mariners Hospital in Tavernier for a medical evaluation before she was released to a family member. Detectives processed the home and say the case remains an active investigation.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched around 11:45 a.m. after the teenager, who is from outside the county, reported she was being held hostage at the Miramar Drive residence. When deputies arrived, they say they found her concealed inside the dryer. Investigators allege 53-year-old Christopher Michael Veit restrained the girl, forced her into the dryer and took her phone after she said she wanted to leave. Major Crimes detectives later took over the case and reported learning there had been ongoing sexual activity between Veit and the minor. Veit is charged with kidnapping and false imprisonment, interference with child custody and unlawful sexual activity with a minor, according to the Tampa Free Press.
Evidence and response
While processing the residence, detectives reported finding several sheets of counterfeit currency and notified the U.S. Secret Service. Authorities said the victim did not suffer life-threatening injuries. First responders took her to Mariners Hospital in Tavernier for further assessment, and she was later placed in the custody of a family member while the Florida Department of Children and Families was notified, per the Tampa Free Press. Baptist Health Mariners Hospital operates the Upper Keys emergency facility where the girl was treated.
Legal implications
Veit now faces multiple felony counts that carry significant penalties under Florida law. Unlawful sexual activity with certain minors is criminalized in Section 794.05 of the Florida Statutes, while kidnapping, false imprisonment and related custody offenses are detailed in Chapter 787. Depending on the circumstances, those offenses can carry sentences ranging from several years in prison to life in more serious cases.
Investigation ongoing
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit is leading the investigation and says the case remains open as detectives continue to review physical and digital evidence and interview witnesses. Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the sheriff’s office. Public contact information is available through Monroe County.
Resources
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911. To report suspected child abuse or neglect in Florida, call the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1-800-962-2873 or visit Florida's Abuse Hotline for more information.
