The FBI's authority to investigate kidnappings comes from Title 18 of the United States Code, Sections 1201, 1204 and 1073. Typically, the FBI may provide investigative assistance to local authorities if there is an interstate aspect in which a felony is committed in one state and the perpetrator(s) and victim(s) proceed to other states. The FBI has authority to investigate kidnappings involving children if it is determined that a child's life is in danger, regardless of the interstate consideration. The Norfolk FBI's Violent Crimes/Major Offenders Squad responds to kidnappings and coordinates investigation with local authorities.

The Internet has emerged in recent years as an "electronic stranger" whereby victims, usually juveniles, are lured into meeting with someone they know only via the Internet.

The FBI initiated a program in 1995 called Innocent Images to deal with Internet-related crimes, including kidnapping. In April, 1997, FBI Director Freeh testified before Congress concerning a comprehensive Crimes Against Children initiative encompassing several major crime problems, including: the sexual exploitation of children; child abductions; child abuse on government property; parental/family custodial kidnappings; and violent crimes against youth. As a result of the initiative, each FBI office has at least two Special Agents assigned to investigate crimes against children.

The FBI also has a Supervisory Special Agent assigned to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which has on its web site information concerning criminal acts against children. The CYBERTIPLINE address is www.missingkids.com; or phone 1-800-THE-LOST.

If you suspect a kidnapping has occurred, contact your local police department immediately. Not only are they the first responders to a possible kidnapping, but the first 24-48 hours after the person is missing are crucial. The Norfolk FBI works closely with all Hampton Roads police agencies, which will contact the FBI for assistance as necessary.

Prevention - What Children Should Do:

• Listen to your parents and don't go where you are not allowed to go.
• Don't accept rides or gifts from strangers -- don't even enter into conversations.
• Be aware of your surroundings, and go home or seek an adult that you trust if you feel uncomfortable.
• If you are home alone, know how to reach your parents.
• Memorize your full name, address, phone number, and parents' work number(s).
• Ask your parents how you can contact the police if at some future time you feel immediate danger.
  

Prevention - What Parents Should Do:

• Know where your children are and who they are with at all times.
• When out in public, keep young children within eyesight at all times.
• Never leave young children at home alone.
• If children are old enough to be home alone, always let them know how to reach you.
• Frequently check on children home alone.
• Maintain current photographs/videos, and fingerprints of your children.
• Monitor your children's Internet activities.
  

Additional resources for parents, including A Parent's Guide to Internet Safety are available on the FBI's website at http://www.fbi.gov/hq/cid/cac/addtnl.htm