Florida Man Charged After Teen Found Hidden in Dryer
A Florida man was arrested after deputies found a teenage girl hidden inside a clothes dryer at a Key Largo home, according to the Monroe County Sheriff's Office.
Deputies were called to a home on Miramar Drive on Sunday morning after the teen called 911 reporting she was being held hostage. When deputies arrived, they found her inside the dryer, the sheriff's office said.
According to investigators, Christopher Veit had restrained the girl, put her in the dryer, and took her cell phone when she told him she wanted to leave, according to WFLA.
Detectives also found "several sheets of counterfeit currency" in the home and notified the U.S. Secret Service. Investigators said there had been ongoing sexual activity between the teen and Veit.
The girl was taken to a hospital for evaluation.
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Charges filed in Monroe County
Veit was charged with kidnapping/false imprisonment, interference with child custody, and unlawful sexual activity with a minor. He was taken to jail, and deputies said more charges may be pending.
The Monroe County Sheriff's Office said the investigation is ongoing. The counterfeit money discovery triggered a federal notification, but no additional federal charges have been announced yet.
The incident occurred in the Florida Keys community of Key Largo on Sunday, June 22, 2026, with the arrest reported Monday morning.
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Teen called 911 herself
Authorities credited the teen's 911 call for the rapid response. Deputies said she was able to contact emergency services despite Veit taking her phone, though details of how she called were not released.
The sheriff's office has not released the teen's age or her relationship to Veit, citing the ongoing investigation into the unlawful sexual activity allegation.
Neighbors on Miramar Drive told local media they were shocked by the police presence Sunday morning.
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Investigation continues
Veit remains in custody at the Monroe County jail. The case has been referred to prosecutors, and the U.S. Secret Service is reviewing the counterfeit currency evidence separately.
Deputies ask anyone with information about Veit or the incident to contact the Monroe County Sheriff's Office.
Key Takeaways
- Teen found in dryer at Key Largo home on Miramar Drive after 911 hostage call
- Christopher Veit charged with kidnapping/false imprisonment and unlawful sexual activity with minor
- Counterfeit money found in home, U.S. Secret Service notified
- Girl taken to hospital after rescue Sunday morning
- More charges possible as Monroe County investigation continues
Sources
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Rachel Hayes reports on international affairs, geopolitics, and breaking world news. Based in London, she covers stories shaping the UK and global political landscape.
