Man arrested on suspicion of child abduction and kidnap after Devon girl's disappearance
12-year old Leona Peach from Newton Abbot has been found safe and well
Last updated 31st Dec 2021
A man has been arrested on suspicion of abducting a 12-year-old girl from Devon.
Missing schoolgirl Leona Peach was found after a raid on a property in Boston, Lincolnshire.
Leona had been reported missing from Newton Abbot on the 20th of December, after having last been seen in the Hele Park area.
On Thursday, Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed the youngster had been discovered safe and well.
The force has thanked the public for sharing multiple appeals to trace Leona, who is now being supported by specialist officers.
A 34-year-old man is due to be transferred to the region to be questioned on suspicion of child abduction and kidnap.
In a statement, police said: "Following an extensive policing operation, 12-year-old Leona Peach who was reported missing from Newton Abbot on the morning of Monday 20th December, has been located safe and well.
"Aided by officers from Lincolnshire Police and with support from Devon Child Services and Lincolnshire Child Services, units attended and undertook a search of an address near Boston this afternoon and located Leona; she will continue to be supported by specialist officers and child services.
"During the search police have arrested a 34-year-old man, originally from Devon, on suspicion of child abduction and kidnap.
"He is due to be transferred into police custody within Devon and Cornwall for questioning in due course.
"Officers would like to thank the public for their support in helping us locate Ms Peach".