In a news conference Thursday morning, the Lincoln Police reported the arrest of 59 year old Mensah Gozo for the sexual assault and the kidnapping of a child.
Police say on Sunday at 10 a.m., officers were called to a home near 1st and Cornhusker that a 12 year old girl had left but had not returned. Officers started an extensive search. Right before noon on Sunday, the girl was dropped off in the area of her home by Gozo.
Assistant Chief Jason Stille says, “As part of an investigation when youth are out of care of their parents or other responsible caregivers, we start a series of questions. It was based on that line of questions and the trajectory of that investigation that led us to believe the 12 year old girl was transported someplace else in the city and was harmed.”
Investigators determined the girl had been picked up by Gozo, was taken to his home where she was harmed and sexually assaulted. He then dropped her off near her home.
Gozo was arrested without incident at his home later Sunday. Police are working to see if Gozo and the child had a prior relationship. There does not appear Gozo knew the family. When she was returned home, she was not wearing the same clothing she left in.
Gozo was arrested for kidnapping and sexual assault. He is charged with one count of sexual assault of a child and child enticement.
Parents are also encouraged to talk to their children about dangers. Assistant Chief Stille says, “It really does start before the event and have an open dialogue with your kids about a number of things. This is just one of those things. What to do if someone approaches you. Who you can talk to if something happens to them. Keep that open dialogue.”
This investigation is ongoing and anyone who has information is asked to call Lincoln Police at (402) 441-6000 or Lincoln Crime Stoppers at (402) 475-3600.