Missing Fitchburg girl found safe, non-custodial mom arrested

FITCHBURG, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com) – A missing 6-year-old Fitchburg girl and her non-custodial mother were found in North Carolina Saturday.

An Amber Alert was issued Friday evening for Alize Whipple, 6, who was reportedly abducted by Leeanna Wilson, 50, both of Fitchburg. Mass. State Police say the woman and child were found in North Carolina at the home of a family member.

Officials claim Wilson took off with Whipple because she thought that the Department of Children and Families was going to take custody of the 6-year-old. DCF was investigating the family as there were allegations of child abuse.

Officials received over 100 tips after the Amber Alert was issued.

Whipple was in good condition and was staying in a North Carolina foster home until she could be transported back to Massachusetts, according to officials. Wilson was arrested on charges of kidnapping and reckless endangerment.

DCF released the following statement Saturday:

We thank law enforcement and members of the public for their assistance in finding Alize safely. The Department is coordinating with officials in North Carolina to ensure her safe return to Massachusetts, where she will be in DCF care. The Department will continue to provide her with the support and services she needs to ensure her safety and well-being.

Cox Media Group