Nova Sampson Amber Alert: Georgia toddler located, safely returned home
Authorities issued an Amber Alert for missing 2-year-old Nova Sampson on February 12, 2022. (Cherokee County Sheriff's Office)
EMERSON, Ga. - The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office said Sunday morning a toddler thought to have been taken by his non-custodial father is safe.
The child's father 21-year-old Camren Clark is suspected of taking Nova Sampson from Ashley Place in Acworth on Saturday, authorities said.
A caller reported Nova missing around 5:15 p.m. on February 12.
Clark was believed to be with his girlfriend 22-year-old Malaysia Haynes of Minnesota during the time Nova was taken.
A Levi's Call, Georgia's Amber Alert System for missing and abducted children, was issued Saturday before being canceled Sunday.
Clark, his girlfriend, and the child were near St. Louis, Missouri.
A sheriff's office spokesperson said Clark contacted Cherokee investigators overnight.
"After speaking with investigators, Clark agreed to return to Cherokee County with the child," Captain Howard Baker said. "All three arrived in Cherokee County Sunday morning and met with investigators. The child is secure and unharmed. Clark and Haynes are currently being interviewed."
Investigators confirmed that Clark currently does not have legal custody. The unharmed child has been reunited with his grandmother who is the legal guardian, officials said.
Clark and Haynes were booked into the Cherokee County Adult Detention Center.
Camren Clark, 21, was arrested and charged with felony interference with custody and burglary in connection with the abduction of Nova Sampson. (Cherokee County Sheriff's Office)
Clark has no bond at this time because his charges were filed under the Georgia Family Violence Act, authorities said.
The sheriff's office said Haynes also faces felon custody-related charges.
Malaysia Haynes, 22, of Minneapolis, Minnesota was arrested and charged in connection to the kidnapping of Nova Sampson. (Cherokee County Sheriff's Office)
Her bond is set at $9,062.
An investigation continues.
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