New Orleans police are asking for the public's help finding a 16-year-old girl who was last seen Saturday near Louisiana Avenue and Magnolia Street. Terryella Washington was reported as missing or a runaway after she exited a vehicle at that intersection, according to investigators.
The New Orleans Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in locating Washington, as reported by WDSU. She is described as 5 feet 6 inches tall and 160 pounds, and was last seen wearing black jogging pants, a dark gray hooded jacket, black Crocs and a black bonnet. Anyone with information about her whereabouts is asked to call NOPD at 504-821-2222.
Washington was last seen near Louisiana Avenue and Magnolia Street. Sixth District detectives can also be reached directly at 504-658-6060 for tips related to the case.
Runaway Cases
Runaway Cases Federal law addresses the entry of missing juvenile reports into national crime databases, according to the US Legal Forms. NOPD publicized Washington's disappearance.
Runaway cases are part of the discussion. The calculus changes for adults, however. Louisiana statutes also address conduct involving minors, according to the same state statutes.
Additional Resources If the Search Escalates
If investigators determine that Washington is in danger, NOPD has options beyond a standard public appeal. The Louisiana State Police operates a Level II Endangered/Missing Child Advisory, known as Bryan's Call, which allows agencies to request a statewide alert for missing juveniles who don't meet the abduction criteria for a full AMBER Alert but are believed to be at risk, according to the Louisiana State Police. Other resources may be considered as needed.
Protecting vulnerable juveniles is a broader concern in New Orleans.
Nationally, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children tracks missing-child reports, and some cases are resolved with the child found safe. This article also discusses missing-person cases.
Anyone with information on Terryella Washington's whereabouts is urged to contact NOPD or Sixth District detectives.
