EASTON, Pa. — A 14-year-old girl missing from Palmer Township for more than three months has been located in Georgia, authorities said Tuesday.
Enci “Aubrey” Wu, who last was seen Jan. 10, and whose disappearance attracted local and national attention from major media outlets, “has been found,” District Attorney Stephen Baratta and attorney Jenna M. Fliszar said.
Enci, an Easton Area High School freshman, described as a good student who participated in Future Business Leaders of America and mock trial, was found Monday in Jasper, Georgia.
Georgia authorities are still investigating the circumstances of Enci residing in Georgia and the quality of the relationship she had.Northampton County District Attorney Stephen Baratta
Enci had no injuries when found by authorities, District Attorney Stephen Baratta said.
He said she had been residing in Geogia “for a period of time, and that she had established a relationship with some individuals."
"And as result, the Georgia authorities are still investigating the circumstances of Enci residing in Georgia and the quality of the relationship she had,” Baratta said.
Local authorities said they are unaware if any charges have been filed in Georgia, but the investigation continues.
Returning to Pennsylvania
Aubrey will be returned to Pennsylvania, but details are yet to be determined, Baratta said.
While Northampton County authorities will not be involved in the transfer, Baratta stated both Pennsylvania and Georgia are part of the Interstate Compact for the Transfer of Juveniles.
She will be transferred to Pennsylvania’s Department of Human Services’ Office of Children, Youth, and Families.
“Now, Enci remains in Georgia today under the care and custody of Georgia Child Protective Services."Northampton County District Attorney Stephen Baratta
“Ultimately, once Georgia returns Enci to Pennsylvania, Department of Human Services will then transfer her to Northampton County," Baratta said.
"And her custody will be with Northampton County Children and Youth, and then they’ll have to conduct their own evaluation.
"And make a determination as to whether Enci can be released, or, because of safety concerns or other issues, that the matter may have to be referred to Northampton County Juvenile Court."
“Now, Enci remains in Georgia today under the care and custody of Georgia Child Protective Services."
Baratta said the announcement provided relief, but is not celebratory, because much is left to be done.
Safety, well-being foremost concern
A statement also was issued Tuesday by attorney Jenna M. Fliszar, who said she represents Enci.
“As everyone in our community is, I am deeply relieved that Enci, also known as Aubrey, has been found," Fliszar said in the statement.
"Her safety and well-being are my foremost concern. I have been in contact with the District Attorney’s Office and, at this time, we are in the process of gathering information.
“While I will have more to say when appropriate, my focus right now remains on ensuring that Aubrey is protected and supported.
"I want to clarify that I represent Aubrey alone and do not represent any other parties involved. I respectfully ask that her privacy be honored as we move forward.”
Wu's stepfather and mother, Jade Wu, were not present at Baratta's news conference.
Gehrmann had a court hearing scheduled on charges he harassed a person he accused of being involved with his stepdaughter’s disappearance.
LehighValleyNews.com has reached out to Gehrmann, but had not responded as of Tuesday afternoon.
