In an astonishing turn of events, Paislee Shultis, a young girl who went missing in 2019 at the age of 4, has been found alive. After more than two years of uncertainty, the child was discovered in a hidden compartment beneath a staircase in her paternal grandfather’s home, located in Saugerties, New York, approximately 45 miles south of Albany.
The Disappearance of Paislee Shultis
Paislee vanished from her home in Cayuga Heights, New York, in 2019. Authorities believed she was abducted by her noncustodial parents, Kimberly Cooper and Kirk Shultis Jr., in a custody dispute. Despite multiple attempts by law enforcement to locate her, the case had gone cold until recent developments led to her dramatic rescue.
On Monday, after receiving a credible tip, the Saugerties Police Department obtained a warrant to search her grandfather’s residence. This property, approximately 160 miles from where Paislee was abducted, had been under suspicion in the past. However, during previous visits, the occupants had denied any knowledge of her whereabouts and allowed only limited access to the property.
The Discovery Under the Stairs
Detective Erik Thiele made the life-changing discovery during a search of the home’s basement. As he examined the wooden staircase, he noticed a blanket through a crack between the steps. Using specialized tools, police removed several of the wooden planks, revealing a small, enclosed space where Paislee was hidden.
“Detectives saw a pair of tiny feet after removing a few steps,” the Saugerties Police Department stated. “The area was cramped, cold, and damp.”
Paislee was found with her alleged abductor, Kimberly Cooper, who had been living in hiding with the child.
Arrests and Charges
Three individuals—Kimberly Cooper, Kirk Shultis Jr., and Kirk Shultis Sr.—have been arrested and charged in connection with Paislee’s disappearance.
- Kirk Shultis Jr. and Sr. were each charged with first-degree felony custodial interference and misdemeanor endangering the welfare of a child.
- Kimberly Cooper faced charges of second-degree custodial interference and misdemeanor endangering the welfare of a child.
Authorities revealed that the suspects had gone to great lengths to conceal the child, evading law enforcement for over two years. Orders of protection have been issued against all three defendants to ensure Paislee’s safety.
Paislee’s Recovery and Return
Despite the ordeal, Paislee, now 6 years old, was found to be in good health. She was immediately evaluated by paramedics and later reunited with her legal guardian. Authorities expressed relief that the child appeared physically unharmed but noted the potential need for emotional and psychological support after her traumatic experience.
A Story of Hope Amid Tragedy
Paislee Shultis’ rescue is a testament to the perseverance of law enforcement and the power of public tips in solving cold cases. While her recovery marks the end of a harrowing chapter, it also serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with custody disputes and the resilience of a child who endured unimaginable circumstances.
This incredible story of survival underscores the importance of vigilance in missing persons cases and the commitment of authorities to bring abducted children home. As Paislee begins her journey to healing, her story shines as a beacon of hope for families still searching for their loved ones.
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