Missing Boy Presumed Kidnapped Rescued After Seven Years, Family Overjoyed

A recent trespass call led to the unexpected discovery and recovery of a boy who was kidnapped and featured in Netflix’s “Unsolved Mysteries”. Abdul Aziz Khan, now 14 years old, was located after being missing for over seven years. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office in Colorado reported the remarkable news, also announcing the arrest of two individuals connected to his case.

“We are overwhelmed with joy that Aziz has finally been found. We want to thank everyone for their support over the last seven years,” said Aziz’s family in a heartfelt statement.

As the family moves forward, they requested privacy to facilitate their healing process together.

The Circumstances of the Abduction

Aziz was reportedly kidnapped in 2017 from Atlanta, Georgia, by his non-custodial mother, 40-year-old Rabia Khalid. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children reported that Khalid failed to appear for a custody hearing in late November 2017, prompting concern.

Following the hearing, Khalid and her new husband, 42-year-old Elliot Blake Bourgeois, packed their belongings and vanished with Aziz. As his father Abdul recalled, Khalid made visitation increasingly difficult, prompting a bitter custody battle that lasted several years.

Despite the severe distance between them, Abdul made an effort to maintain a close relationship with Aziz. “I scheduled my entire work around Aziz,” Abdul stated. “I’d visit him every other weekend, bringing him to New Orleans to be with his family.” This dedication showcased a father’s commitment to remain involved in his son’s life.

The Search for Aziz

Authorities, including the U.S. Marshals Service, diligently searched for Khalid and Aziz across eleven states. However, the breakthrough came on February 23, when deputies from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported burglary in Highlands Ranch, Colorado.

Upon arriving at the vacant home, deputies found two adults along with two children in a vehicle parked in the driveway. Their initial assurance of being affiliated with the realtor soon unraveled as their true identities came to light.

Khalid, who had a standing kidnapping warrant, was identified alongside Bourgeois. Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly praised the deputies for their sharp attention to detail. He noted that what began as a routine trespass call significantly evolved into the successful recovery of a child who had been missing for seven long years.

Navigating Legal Challenges

Authorities have charged both Khalid and Bourgeois with multiple offenses, including Second Degree Kidnapping, Forgery, Identity Theft, Providing False Information to Authorities, and Trespassing. Their bonds have been set at $1 million each, with a preliminary hearing anticipated on March 27.

A second child, whose identity remains confidential, was also placed into protective custody alongside Aziz. Sheriff Weekly highlighted the emotional moment when he met Aziz’s family, pointing out that “there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.” He expressed his commitment to assist the family on their healing journey.

A Long Road Ahead for the Family

As Aziz reunites with his family, they face a challenging path ahead. Sheriff Weekly reassured them of continued support from law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of walking together through the upcoming days, weeks, and months.

He stated, “I couldn’t be prouder of the work done by our team; this case highlights the commitment of our officers to seek justice and protect the most vulnerable. It serves as a reminder of the incredible difference our work makes in the lives of those we serve. This is why we do this work.”

Continuing Investigation

The investigation remains active as authorities seek to gather further information regarding the case. In a statement, U.S. Marshal Enix Smith III expressed gratitude to all those involved in the recovery effort. He specifically acknowledged the rapid and effective actions of Colorado authorities, as well as the roles played by NCMEC and the public in raising awareness.

John Bischoff III, from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, commended the safe return of Aziz and recognized the collaborative efforts of law enforcement throughout the process. He emphasized the crucial role national media coverage played in this case, aiding in locating Aziz.

“In family abduction cases, garnering public attention can be challenging, but we understood it was vital. Thanks to the keen instincts of the deputies and attention from both law enforcement and the public, Aziz is now safe. As his family begins to reconnect, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children will continue to provide support throughout their healing process,” Bischoff concluded.