San Francisco, California – A 16-year-old nonbinary teenager, Mint Butterfield, went missing from their Bolinas home and was found in San Francisco in the company of a 26-year-old man, Christopher “Kio” Dizefalo. The Marin County Sheriff’s Office reported that Dizefalo, described as an “adult friend,” now faces kidnapping charges for his involvement in the incident.
Butterfield, the child of Slack co-founder Stewart Butterfield and Flickr co-founder Caterina Fake, was located unharmed by authorities. Despite previous suicide threats, Butterfield voluntarily ran away from home but has since been reunited with their family. Dizefalo was arrested and booked on suspicion of child abduction and other violations. He is being held on a $50,000 bail.
The teenager was found inside Dizefalo’s white van in San Francisco’s Tenderloin District, a neighborhood known for its dangerous reputation. Authorities believe Butterfield had planned to run away, a note left to their parents indicated such intentions. Mint’s parents expressed gratitude to law enforcement and others involved in the search and recovery of their child.
It was revealed that Butterfield had frequented the Tenderloin area before the incident, raising concerns about their safety. The situation highlighted the real threat predators pose in using adolescent vulnerabilities to manipulate and exploit.
The collaborative effort of family, friends, volunteers, and law enforcement played a crucial role in the safe return of Mint Butterfield. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers young individuals may face and the importance of swift action in response to such crises. The family’s message of gratitude resonates with the community, emphasizing the significance of unity and vigilance in safeguarding vulnerable youth.