LO was located safely by police at about 4:25 p.m. Thursday, March 11 in Montpelier.

Through further investigation, the Vermont State Police identified Mac Arnot, 24, of Stowe in connection with this case. Arnot was identified as having picked up Leilani, age 14, at U-32 Middle & High School in Montpelier at about 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 10, without the permission of the juvenile’s parent/guardian.

As a result, Arnot was flash-cited on suspicion of two charges: aiding a runaway child, and kidnapping. Law enforcement is investigating the connection between Arnot and Leilani, but it is believed they knew each other.

Arnot was arraigned Thursday afternoon in the Criminal Division of Vermont Superior Court in Barre and ordered held without bail.

The Vermont State Police thanks members of the public who provided information that assisted with the investigation.