DENVER (KDVR) — A suspect was released from custody following an Amber Alert for a missing 16-year-old who was later found safe on Tuesday, according to the Boulder Police Department.
The Boulder Police Department confirmed with FOX31 that Juan Manuel Bretado-Lopez, 19, was released from custody after he was believed to be driving the truck with the missing teen inside.
“Our thorough and ongoing investigation has revealed a number of issues that require additional investigation. In the meantime, after consulting with the Boulder County District Attorney’s Office, the suspect has been released as the investigation continues,” a spokesperson for the Boulder Police Department said.
On Monday night, a 16-year-old girl was seen being “forced” into a truck with two suspects, and police believed she was in danger. An Amber Alert for the missing teen was sent out on Tuesday morning. The girl was found safe just before noon.
On Tuesday night, Boulder police said they were able to find the victim and suspect in Thornton by retracing the suspect’s movements. At the time, they said Bretado-Lopez was detained and transported to the police department but didn’t mention possible charges.
On Thursday morning, police confirmed that Bretado-Lopez had been released.
“Upon learning of this event, Boulder PD responded aggressively to ensure the safety of the victim in this case, and we are glad that she has been safely reunited with her family. In every case, regardless of the allegations, we are determined to reach the right result, especially in a case with serious allegations,” the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson said this isn’t “unusual,” as it’s the department’s priority to investigate every case thoroughly. The spokesperson said the victim and the suspect know each other, and police don’t believe there’s an active risk to the community.
Anthony Sutton is a business strategist and writer with a passion for management, leadership, and entrepreneurship. With years of experience in the corporate world, he shares insights on business growth, strategy, and innovation through management-opleiding.org.
