Waikato Police seek public's help in locating missing intellectually disabled girl

Thursday, 17 October 2013 - 1:30pm

Waikato

Waikato Police are seeking assistance from the public as they seek to locate a Morrinsville girl with an intellectual disability reported missing overnight.

Senior Sergeant Pete Van De Wetering of the Waikato District Command Centre said Abethy (known as Abbey) Dalice GIBSON is 15-years-old but has a mental age of 10 years and has mild autism.

"Unfortunately Abbey is a recidivist runaway and was the subject of a widespread search last August where she was eventually located, thanks to assistance from the public, in Hamilton.

"Abbey has a fascination with animals and can often be found in pet stores. When last found she had a pet rat with her and last week she had a pet frog with her so we're asking pet store owners to be particularly vigilant and if they think recognise her to ring 111."

Mr Van De Wetering said Abbey is described as a female Caucasian of skinny build with short brown coloured hair.

"She also wears quite distinctive lime green hearing aids in both her ears. Her intellectual disability meaning she has an estimated comprehension level of an ten year old which is of concern to us."

"When last seen Abbey was wearing dark green jeans, a black long sleeved T-Shirt, a purple and white hooded sweatshirt, purple chuck shoes, a green jacket and carrying a purple bag."

Because Abbey is known to actively avoid Police, Mr Van De Wetering asked anyone who may see her or knows of her whereabouts to call 111 without delay.

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