There’s a growing perception in Augusta that juvenile runaways are on the rise this year. But it’s not as simple as it seems.
Local law enforcement officials attribute the uptick in public cases to increased transparency. They are sharing more cases than the previous administration under Sheriff Richard Roundtree, instead of keeping it a quiet matter. With the rapid spread of information online, missing juveniles are now part of daily conversations.
As the summer continues, more teens are reported missing, triggering public concern and sparking debates about peer influence, family dynamics, and the risks facing runaways.
In just the last few weeks, several cases have caught the attention of residents. For example, three girls from a group home were reported missing on June 27: 16-year-old Gabrielle Brennon, 17-year-old Trimeka Thomas, and 14-year-old Katelinn Anderson. The girls were last seen walking north on Old Waynesboro Road after leaving the group home around midnight.
Meanwhile, on June 26, two sisters, 13-year-old Jordyn Alexandria Tuggle and 16-year-old Janiyah Mechellae Tuggle, were reported missing after leaving their home on Winston Way. The Tuggle sisters were last seen walking together, both wearing pink shirts and black pants.
Another missing teen, 14-year-old Kendra Lindsey, who had been last seen on June 8 at the Super 8 Motel, was located safely after she commented on her own missing person alert, explaining that she had run away due to a legal issue rather than any problems at home. Her post went viral, with over 2 million views, possibly because she commented on the post and warned it would take the FBI to capture her. She later returned home safely, authorities said. (Story continues below.)
Other cases remain unresolved, including that of 17-year-old Alliyah Ash, last seen on May 29 on Commonwealth Way. Investigators believe Alliyah may be in the Wrens area. Similarly, 15-year-old Caden Lee Owens, last seen on June 16, has yet to be located, according to authorities. And 13-year-old Taria Parris was reported missing on June 20 after leaving her home on Snowden Drive in Hephzibah.
The spike in cases, paired with the public’s heightened awareness through social media posts and news coverage, has led many to wonder if there’s something more at play.
Gail Widener, a local resident, voiced the growing concerns on Facebook: “I pray that all these kids wake up and get back home! It’s so dangerous out there! I don’t know what is going on but something is off. Five teenage girls in a matter of hours… I wonder if someone is luring them out with empty promises. I pray that they are found soon and safe.”
Despite the rising visibility of these cases, law enforcement officials caution that the actual number of runaways has not significantly increased. According to Investigator Ron Sylvester of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, while it may seem like there are more cases, the numbers have remained consistent with previous years.
“While it may appear that juvenile runaway cases are increasing, the actual number of reported runaways in 2025 remains consistent with previous years,” Sylvester explained. “What has changed is our commitment to increased transparency. We are now sharing more alerts with the media and on social platforms to help bring these young people home faster.”
A Pattern or Perception? The rise in public awareness is largely due to the speed with which information spreads on social media. High-profile cases, such as the ones involving the group home girls and Kendra Lindsey’s comment on her own missing person post, have amplified concerns. As the digital age makes it easier to share information and updates about missing teens, cases that were once handled behind the scenes are now in the spotlight.
Sgt. Timothy Owen with the Violent Crimes Division pointed out that social media and peer pressure are both critical factors in many runaway cases.
“Juveniles often run in groups, and their decisions are frequently encouraged — or even pressured — by others,” Owen explained. “Social media, group chats, and online challenges can reinforce risky behavior. In other cases, kids may be reacting to conflict at home or seeking a false sense of independence.”
Community Reactions: Hope and Fear: The disappearance of sisters Jordyn and Janiyah Tuggle has especially resonated with the Augusta community, where many locals are praying for their safe return. Cliff Jordan, a local resident, shared his own fears about the safety of runaway teens:
“I honestly hope and pray these young women are okay. The world can be so dangerous, and you never really know who has good intentions and who doesn’t. Being out on the street is terrifying. It’s not just hard, it puts them at real risk of being hurt, trafficked, or worse.”
While many of these cases end with the return of the juveniles, some remain unresolved. Alliyah Ash, who was last seen on May 29, and Caden Owens, who disappeared on June 16, are still missing. With each new alert, residents remain on edge, hoping for a safe resolution.
What Happens When They’re Found? Investigator Sylvester emphasized that each runaway case is handled on an individual basis, in partnership with the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). Depending on the circumstances, the DJJ may release the juvenile back to a guardian, or take further action if additional concerns or charges arise.
“Once a runaway is located, we work with DJJ to determine what happens next. Each case is unique,” Sylvester said. “Sometimes the situation requires a more involved response, but our goal is always to ensure the safety and well-being of these juveniles.”
Advice for Parents: As the number of cases continues to draw attention, law enforcement officials are urging parents to stay vigilant. Sgt. Owen advised parents to keep an eye on sudden changes in their child’s behavior, friend groups, or online activity.
“Know their social media accounts, monitor their online activity, and maintain open communication,” he said. “It’s also important to have access to their phone and keep track of their social circles. If your child is planning to run away, knowing who they are talking to and where they are likely to go can make a significant difference.”
He also cautioned against taking away a child’s phone if there’s a concern they might run away, as phones can help law enforcement locate missing teens quickly.
“Phones can be valuable tools for law enforcement in locating runaway teens quickly,” Owen added. “Using apps like Life360 or Bark can help, but overusing tracking tools may cause some teens to ditch their phones altogether.”
A Call for Awareness and Compassion: While some runaway cases are rooted in rebellion, others are cries for help. The Sheriff’s Office and concerned citizens agree: what matters most is ensuring each child’s safe return.
If you have information about any of the missing juveniles mentioned, please contact the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office at 706-821-1020 or 706-821-1080.
