Bluffdale, UT — An 18-year-old man is behind bars after authorities say he was found with a 12-year-old girl who had run away from home. Ryker Xethanial Buxton faces a long list of potential charges, including rape of a child, sodomy on a child, object rape, unlawful kissing, criminal trespass, and burglary of a dwelling. He is being held in the Salt Lake County Jail without bail.
Timeline of Events
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September 8: Police responded to a trespassing report after the girl’s parents discovered that Buxton had been secretly living inside their home. Investigators allege he had been hiding in the girl’s bedroom for approximately ten days without the parents’ knowledge or consent.
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September 15: The child ran away from home, prompting her parents to contact law enforcement, fearing she was with Buxton.
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September 16: Authorities located Buxton and the girl together in Provo.
Disturbing Allegations
During interviews, the girl confirmed she had been with Buxton but did not disclose sexual abuse. Buxton, however, allegedly admitted to engaging in multiple sexual acts with the 12-year-old during the time he hid in her room. According to police, Buxton claimed he believed she looked older than her age and expressed romantic feelings toward her.
Community Reaction and Investigation
The case has shocked residents of Bluffdale and surrounding Utah County communities. Investigators stress that crimes involving minors are treated with the utmost severity and have urged parents to stay vigilant about their children’s online and in-person interactions.
Charges are expected to be formally filed in the coming days as the investigation continues.
The post Bluffdale Teen Arrested After Allegedly Hiding in 12-Year-Old’s Bedroom, Facing Multiple Child Sex Abuse Charges first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
