Second Missing Teen from Virginia Behavioral Health Center Located Safely, Search Intensifies for Third
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — A second teenager who vanished from a behavioral health facility in Portsmouth earlier this month has been located unharmed, police confirmed Friday. The development brings partial relief to a case that has highlighted concerns over the supervision of minors in residential care settings.
Portsmouth Police Department announced that 12-year-old Forever Scott, who had been listed as an endangered runaway due to her age, was found safe on January 31. Scott was one of three girls who disappeared from the Harbor Point Behavioral Health Center on January 18.
"We are relieved that Forever is safe and will be receiving the appropriate care," said Elexcia Washington of the Portsmouth Police Department. "Our focus remains unwavering on locating the third individual and ensuring her well-being."
The first of the three, 14-year-old Jocelyn Krofek, was located on January 23. The intensive search now centers on 16-year-old Darsha McAllister, described as 5'6" with orange hair, last seen wearing pink pajama pants and a tan "California" shirt.
Authorities had issued a Critical Operation for a Disappeared Child Initiative (CODI) Alert for Scott and McAllister ahead of last week's severe winter storm, amplifying concerns for their safety in harsh conditions. Scott was located before the storm hit.
Harbor Point CEO Freddie Anderson stated the facility "immediately notified law enforcement and guardians" and is "fully cooperating" with the investigation. The consecutive disappearances from the same facility within days, however, are likely to prompt scrutiny of protocols at behavioral health centers serving youth.
"These incidents underscore the complex challenges in balancing therapeutic environments with necessary security for at-risk adolescents," said child welfare advocate Dr. Marcus Thorne. "When multiple minors leave a secured facility undetected, it demands a thorough review of procedures and staffing."
Portsmouth Police urge anyone with information on McAllister's whereabouts to contact their Special Victims Unit at 757-393-8536 or submit anonymous tips via the P3 Tips app or Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.
Community Reaction
Local residents and online commentators expressed mixed reactions to the news:
Sarah Jenkins, Portsmouth parent: "I'm so thankful two girls are safe, but my heart aches for the one still missing. As a community, we need to support these families and ask hard questions about how this happened—twice."
Derrick Miller, social worker: "This isn't just about running away. These are kids placed in care for a reason. The system failed to keep them safe. We need more resources and better oversight, not just press releases after the fact."
Reverend James Boyd, community leader: "Let's channel our energy into helping find Darsha and supporting these young women's long-term recovery. Blame can come later; now is the time for compassion and action."
Linda Carter, former educator (sharper tone): "Enough with the 'cooperating fully' corporate statements. Two kids walked out? Then another? This isn't a mystery—it's gross negligence. Heads should roll at that facility, and the state licensing board needs to step in NOW before another child is endangered."