The mother of a 7-year-old Zimmerman girl who was abducted after getting off the school bus last week and later rescued by law enforcement released a public statement expressing gratitude to first responders and the community.
In a statement released through Eckberg Lammers Attorneys at Law, Mikailah Nelson thanked law enforcement and community members who helped bring her daughter home safely.
“I am beyond grateful and incredibly proud of law enforcement and everyone in the community who made our little girl a priority and helped bring her home,” Nelson said. “As we focus on healing and recovery, we’re grateful to have the support to help us guide through what comes next.”
The statement follows the Jan. 21 abduction of the girl, who was taken near her school bus stop in Sherburne County and later found hours later in southern Minnesota after a coordinated law enforcement response that included an AMBER Alert.
Joseph Andrew Bragg, 28, of International Falls, is charged with kidnapping to facilitate a felony and first-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a victim under 14. Authorities say he was arrested near Albert Lea after investigators tracked a vehicle connected to the disappearance. The child was found alive in the back seat of the vehicle and later transported to a hospital for evaluation before being reunited with her family.
Court records allege Bragg used social media to contact the child’s mother weeks earlier and later used a rideshare service and a hotel room during the course of the alleged crime. Investigators say the child disclosed sexual abuse during a forensic interview.
Bragg remains in custody and faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years in prison if convicted.
Family launches official GoFundMe
A GoFundMe page has been launched to help cover expenses related to recovery and long-term support. According to the fundraising statement, the money will be used to assist the child, her younger sister and their mother as they navigate the aftermath of the crime. So far, the campaign has raised more than $10,000.
“While the investigation and prosecution of this monster proceeds, the family is asking for privacy as they focus on healing and the future,” the statement reads.
Funds will be used for counseling and trauma-informed care, safety planning, temporary stabilization expenses, and other ongoing support needs.
“Thank you for standing with this family,” the statement says. “Your support brings hope, strength, and practical help when it’s needed most.”
Authorities credited swift interagency coordination for the child’s recovery and continue to ask the public to respect the family’s privacy as the case moves through the court system.
Jenna Gloeb
Jenna Gloeb is an Edward R. Murrow Award-winning journalist, media producer, public speaker, and screenwriter. Most recently, she worked as a reporter and on-air host for CCX Media. Jenna is a Minnesota native and resides in the Twin Cities with her husband, son, daughter, and two dogs.
