Several law enforcement agencies in Arizona worked together to locate a teen runaway from Phoenix who was reportedly found to be in a relationship with a 27-year-old Cottonwood man.
On Tuesday, Jan. 9, Phoenix Police contacted the Cottonwood Police Department requesting assistance in attempting to locate a 15-year-old runaway from their jurisdiction.
Officers received information that the teen was reportedly in the company of a man who had been communicating with her through social media under the username “Kiru Eternel” and that he possibly worked at a business in Cottonwood. Officers were able to identify the man as Aelynn Peyketewa of Cottonwood.
The parents of the runaway shared information about their missing daughter through social media. The parents were also in contact with Cottonwood PD.
With assistance from the parents, Prescott Police Department, Prescott Valley Police Department and Yavapai County Juvenile Detention, the girl was located in Prescott a couple of days later.
Additional interviews were conducted with the juvenile and her parents by Cottonwood PD and Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office detectives and initial evidence was collected. As the investigation continued it was revealed the runaway was brought to Cottonwood around on Jan. 11 by Peyketewa whom she’d met online approximately two years ago. The investigation also revealed the two to be in a sexual relationship.
On Wednesday, Jan. 17, Cottonwood detectives, assisted by YCSO detectives, executed a search warrant at Peyketewa’s Cottonwood residence where additional evidence was found. Peyketewa was home at the time and arrested without incident.
He was booked into the Yavapai County Detention Center on eight counts of sexual conduct with a minor. He is currently being held on a $500,000 bond.
“The successful conclusion of this investigation was achieved as a result of multiple local agencies working together toward a common goal. Furthermore, the victim and her family’s cooperation greatly aided in seeing this investigation through to a positive resolution,” said Cottonwood Detective Aaron Scott.
Information provided by the Cottonwood Police Department
