Parental Abduction: Every Parents Nightmare

Why are some child abductions taken more seriously than others? The difference is who the abductor might be -- a stranger or a family member. Tiara Crystal Gordon has been missing since May 21st.

CELEBRATION, FL -- June 5, 2002 -- Where is Tiara Crystal Gordon? Most likely you have not heard of the 7-year-old who was last seen May 21st at her family home in Celebration Florida. However, the name Danielle van Dam probably is more familiar. The 7-year-old San Diego girl was abducted and killed, and was the focus of extensive daily coverage in the national media for several months.

Why are some child abductions taken more seriously than others?
The difference is who the abductor might be -- a stranger or a family member.

Last year, more than 723,000 children were reported missing in the U.S. More than 160,000 children a year are abducted by family members, usually embroiled in child custody disputes, According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, based in Alexandria, Virginia.
Farrell Gordon, acclaimed entrepreneur and philanthropist, is living his worst nightmare. His ex-wife Linda Bergy disappeared with their daughter Tiara Crystal Gordon nearly three weeks ago. My whole world revolves around finding Tiara; I know shes not safe." says Gordon. Im doing everything possible to find her. I cant imagine what my life would be like without my little girl".
Family abductions are real crimes with real victims," stated NCMEC President and CEO Ernie Allen. Children are often taken by non-custodial family members in acts of revenge or anger and their best interests are not considered."
The trauma that children suffer when abducted by a parent is no less than that of children taken by a stranger, yet our society views the situations very differently. It is this way of thinking that lessens the chance of an immediate, active investigation by law enforcement. The remaining family members are left in a state of emotional devastation, not knowing if their children are safe or whether theyll ever see them again.

Tiara Crystal Gordon is 48" tall and weighs 66lbs. She was last seen wearing a red polo-type shirt and plaid school uniform shorts. Linda Bergy is 39 years old, 5"7" and 115lbs., with blonde hair last seen wearing a denim jacket and jeans. People who have information are urged to contact Investigator John Bradshaw at (813) 376-5732.
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