Missing Wisconsin Teen Found Safe with Arrested Suspect

BEAVER DAM, Wis. — A missing and pregnant Wisconsin teenager, 17-year-old Sophia Franklin, has been found safe nearly two months after she was reported missing. Authorities arrested 40-year-old Gary Day, who was with her at the time of her recovery, according to the Beaver Dam Police Department.

Franklin was reported missing from her Beaver Dam home on February 2, 2025, and an AMBER Alert was issued shortly thereafter. Law enforcement believed she was with Day, the father of her unborn child. On April 2, police were alerted to a sighting of Franklin and Day at Love’s Travel Stop near Omaha, Nebraska, prompting a rapid response.

Deputies in Sarpy County confirmed Franklin’s identity after being tipped off about the potential sighting. Upon questioning, they arrested Day, who was wanted for multiple counts of child abduction and enticement. Franklin was transported to a hospital for evaluation and later placed in a secure facility to reunite with her family.

Beaver Dam Police Chief John Kreuziger commended the public’s involvement in the case. “We would like to thank the Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office, as well as the numerous other law enforcement agencies that dedicated time and effort to locating Sophia,” Kreuziger said. He also acknowledged the crucial role the community played in reporting sightings and raises awareness.

Sophia turned 17 on the day she was found and is currently reported to be five months pregnant. Her mother, Leah Franklin, expressed immense relief upon hearing the news, stating, “I’m ready to take the next steps for Sophie to be well and whole again and just so thankful that she is no longer with this man who has just totally violated our family’s privacy.”

Investigators revealed that Sophia was last seen leaving home on February 2, a case that triggered an AMBER Alert that expanded to include Arkansas and Missouri, indicating the seriousness of the situation. The family had noted Sophia’s interactions with Day online as early as April 2024.

Franklin’s parents had attempted to limit her internet access to protect her from potential dangers, but she was able to maintain contact with Day. When news of her disappearance spread, the authorities feared she was being manipulated by Day, who has a history of troubling behavior.

As the investigation progressed, it was revealed that Sophia had communicated with Day for several months before her disappearance, and he had allegedly taken her from Wisconsin to Arkansas before eventually being apprehended in Nebraska.

Leah Franklin shared her emotional journey during the ordeal, saying, “My hope was dwindling. They say there is a lot of evil out there, but there is also a terrific amount of good in people who care.” Leah, staying optimistic, emphasized the importance of community vigilance and the key role it played in bringing her daughter home safely.

Day now faces serious charges, which could lead to significant legal repercussions as investigations continue. Officials have confirmed that both Franklin and her unborn child are in good health.

This incident highlights the alarming issues surrounding child abduction and the vital role that public awareness can play in recovery efforts. Franklin’s case is a reminder of the need to remain vigilant and supportive of community safety initiatives.