A 10-year-old girl from California was kidnapped after chatting with a man on the popular online game Roblox. According to the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, the man had been messaging the young girl before meeting her in person. The suspect, 27-year-old Matthew Macatuno Naval, was arrested the next day. This online game abduction brought significant attention to internet safety. Thankfully, police found the girl safe. The case has raised serious concerns about online safety for children, especially on platforms that include chat features.
Police Used Online Messages to Track Down the Suspect
Investigators discovered messages between Naval and the girl on both Roblox and Discord. Children and preteens widely use Roblox, and gamers often use Discord to chat. These chats provided detectives with clues about the suspect’s location. They revealed clear evidence of the online game abduction. After analyzing the conversations, detectives realized the girl might have been taken to Northern California. This digital evidence helped solve the case quickly.
Family Reported the Girl Missing the Morning After She Disappeared
The girl disappeared from her home in Taft, California, which is about 110 miles north of Los Angeles. This case of an online game abduction highlighted the dangers of internet interactions. Her family reported her missing around 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 13. They hadn’t seen her since the night before. Her sudden disappearance caused panic. Friends of the girl gave detectives helpful information, which supported the idea that she had been kidnapped. Thanks to those early tips, authorities were able to act fast.
Detectives Found the Girl and Suspect Over 250 Miles Away
The investigation led detectives all the way to Elk Grove, Naval’s hometown, nearly 260 miles away. Working closely with the Elk Grove Police Department, they began a search of the area. They soon found Naval sitting in his car at a strip mall. The missing girl was with him. Officers quickly took the girl into protective custody. They made sure she was safe before reuniting her with her family. This was a relief for everyone involved in the online game abduction case.
Suspect Taken Into Custody Without Bail and Facing Charges
Police arrested Naval around 3:35 p.m. that afternoon on the 7100 block of Elk Grove Boulevard. They took him into custody and charged him with kidnapping and unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. Officers booked him into the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office Jail. They are holding him without bail and plan to extradite him to Kern County for further legal action. Investigators continue to work on the online game abduction case.
Sheriff’s Office Issues Urgent Warning for All Parents
After the girl was found, the Kern County Sheriff’s Office issued a strong warning. They urged parents to pay close attention to their children’s internet activity. The sheriff’s office said many games and apps include messaging tools. These features may seem harmless but can be just as dangerous as other social media platforms. Children may not realize they’re speaking to adults or strangers. The office reminded parents that regular communication is key.
Internet and Gaming Platforms Can Be Risky for Kids
Roblox, while entertaining, allows users to chat with anyone. That makes it easy for predators to connect with children. Apps like Discord also give strangers private access to young users. Law enforcement stressed the need for parents to stay informed. They should know who their children are talking to and what platforms they are using. Many families are unaware of the hidden risks in gaming platforms with built-in chat.
Experts Recommend Monitoring Tools to Help Keep Children Safe
The sheriff’s office also encouraged parents to use media monitoring tools. These apps can help track messages, limit screen time, and alert parents to dangerous contacts. Many tools are easy to use and can make a big difference. They are especially helpful for parents who feel unsure about where to start. Monitoring apps can act as a safety net when kids are playing online. This added layer of protection could prevent future incidents.
Authorities Ask for Help From the Public
The Kern County Sheriff’s Office is still investigating the case of the online game abduction. Anyone with more information is asked to come forward. If you have details that might help the investigation, call (661) 861-3110. Make sure to mention case number 2025-00045231 when you call. Community support can be a powerful tool. Even small details may help detectives protect other children from harm.
