Sheriff: ‘For God’s sake, tell us where she’s at’

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) – Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott admits his department is desperate to find 15-year-old Gabrielle Swainson, and they are appealing to everyone in the community for answers, even the suspected kidnapper. Addressing members of the media Thursday, Lott presented a replica of the pajamas investigators believe 15-year-old Gabrielle Swainson was wearing the night she was kidnapped. Officials say the teenager was barefoot when she was abducted. Investigators also revealed they have a 1992 light blue Ford Escort in their possession, which they claim was used to transport Swainson, against her will, from her northeast Columbia home August 18th. They urge anyone who may have seen the vehicle between Friday, August 17th, and Saturday, August 18th, to contact them immediately. 52-year-old Freddie Grant has been arrested and charged with kidnapping. Swainson’s DNA was discovered at Grant’s Elgin residence; investigators also point out his lengthy and violent criminal past. The sheriff admits his department needs the community’s help closing this case, saying, “I’m not gonna tell the community not to helpm but if you do, please coordinate with us. We don’t want anyone trying to be a hero. We just need to know what you’re doing so we can find her.” Lott even appealed to Grant, saying, ‘For God’s sake, tell us where she’s at.’ If you recall seeing the car the weekend of August 17th, or would like to organize some type of search effort/benefit in the Gabrielle Swainson case, call CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC or the Richland County Sheriff’d Department.