Authorities in Independence County successfully located a missing child and arrested two individuals after receiving a tip from law enforcement in South Carolina.
According to the Independence County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were contacted at approximately 3 p.m. on September 9, 2026, by officials in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, regarding a juvenile believed to be in northern Independence County. The Sheriff’s Criminal Investigations Division quickly worked to determine a possible location of the child and arrived at the scene around 3:15 p.m.
Deputies found the suspect pair, identified as Brandon Britten and Sierra Britten, at the location. Both individuals were taken into custody without incident. The missing juvenile was also found at the scene and escorted by law enforcement to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Independence County. There, the child underwent a forensic interview, medical evaluation, and received other support services from the center’s staff.
Officials later executed a search warrant at the location to gather evidence and further information related to the case.
In the evening, the child was placed in the care of the Arkansas Sheriff’s Youth Ranch until her parents could travel to Arkansas from South Carolina. On the morning of September 10, 2026, the juvenile was safely reunited with her parents.
The Independence County Sheriff’s Office extended its gratitude to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Independence County and the Arkansas Sheriff’s Youth Ranch for their swift assistance and resources during the operation. The Sheriff’s Office stated that the investigation remains active and ongoing, with federal agencies assisting in the case.
Additional details regarding the suspects and the circumstances surrounding the abduction have not been released at this time.