Sierra Newbold, 6, Murdered and Dumped in Canal: 'There's a Predator Out There,' Say Police

By Sami K. Martin, Christian Post Reporter Thursday, June 28, 2012

Sierra Newbold's body was found in an empty canal a block from her home just 30 minutes after her mother reported her missing. Now police are seeking the individual who sexually assaulted and murdered the young girl.

Newbold, 6, went missing on Tuesday, and her mother Kathy immediately called police. They were able to locate Newbold's body just one block from her home. An autopsy revealed that the young girl had been sexually assaulted before being killed.

Police have spoken to the public about the crime and warned individuals in the area to be on high alert, as they fear that a sexual predator may be in the neighborhood.

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"There's obviously a predator out there," Police Chief Doug Diamond told the press.

"Our highest priority now is to identify, arrest, and successfully prosecute the person or persons responsible for this crime. I share in the concern of our residents for the ongoing safety and security of our children," Diamond added.

Newbold's parents have been cooperating with officials and have asked for privacy during this time. Diamond told the public, "At this time, no suspects have been identified and we do not have any persons of interest."

Right now officials are investigating the family's home, but there are no evident signs of a break-in or forced entry. Surveillance videos around the home are also being examined for any possible clues.

"Our contacts at the FBI have been helping us with that," explained Sgt. Drew Sanders. "They've been working on enhancing that [surveillance video]. Right now, we do know that there are images on there and our investigators are analyzing that and trying to determine what use those are and if any evidence exists."

Anyone with information about the case is encouraged to call (801) 840-4000.