Park Predators: Episode Summary – "The Loop"
Host: Delia D’Ambra
Episode Title: The Loop
Release Date: December 17, 2024
Introduction
In the gripping episode titled "The Loop," investigative journalist and park enthusiast Delia D’Ambra delves into a harrowing true story that unfolded in Moreau Lake State Park, New York, in the fall of 2023. This case not only shook the local community but garnered national and international attention, highlighting the vulnerabilities even in the most serene natural settings.
The Disappearance of Charlotte
Date and Location:
On Saturday, September 30, 2023, around 6:00 PM, in Moreau Lake State Park, located approximately 45 minutes north of Albany, New York.
Events Leading Up to the Disappearance:
Charlotte, a nine-year-old girl, was part of a group of children riding bikes in a wooded campground area known as Loop A. As dusk approached, most children decided to return to their families for dinner, adhering to park rules that require having a buddy while biking. However, Charlotte, driven by her own initiative, chose to take one more ride around Loop A, venturing alone against the stipulated safety guidelines.
Immediate Aftermath:
Approximately 15 minutes later, Charlotte’s mother, Tricia, returned from an errand and discovered her daughter missing after a headcount. The realization triggered a frantic search involving family members, fellow campers, and even bystanders preparing their own dinners. By 6:45 PM, Charlotte’s abandoned bike was found around the corner from the campsite, deepening fears for her safety.
Search Efforts Initiated:
Tricia promptly called 911, leading to the involvement of the Saratoga County Sheriff's Office, New York State Police, and eventually the FBI. Authorities deployed extensive resources, including aviation units, underwater rescue teams, bloodhounds, and drones, to scour the 7,000-acre park.
Notable Quote:
At [02:15], Delia recounts, “Charlotte’s disappearance felt like every update on social media was a heartbeat skipped by parents everywhere.”
Investigation and Breakthrough
Ransom Note Discovery:
On the morning of Monday, October 2, at around 4:20 AM, a state police trooper discovered a mysterious note in the family's mailbox. The note demanded a significant ransom but lacked specific instructions for its delivery, raising suspicions about its authenticity and origin.
Fingerprint Evidence:
Investigators analyzed the note and extracted a single fingerprint, which matched Craig Nelson Ross Jr., a 46-year-old man with a prior record for driving while intoxicated from a 1999 arrest in Saratoga Springs.
Suspect Identification and Arrest:
Authorities traced Ross Jr. to a property owned by his mother in Ballston Spa, New York, about 20 miles from the park and 12 minutes from Charlotte’s home. On October 2, 2023, at around 6:30 PM, law enforcement officers confronted Ross Jr., who was residing in a camper van. After initial resistance, he was apprehended, and a thorough search of the property led to the rescue of Charlotte, hidden inside a cabinet of his camper.
Notable Quote:
Delia emphasizes at [11:45], “Finding Charlotte alive was the beacon of hope that fueled the relentless pursuit of justice.”
Suspect’s Background:
Further investigation revealed disturbing aspects of Ross Jr.’s history, including allegations of sexual abuse of a minor and prior domestic disputes. His interactions suggested premeditation, with neighbors noting his camper van’s window coverings months before the abduction.
Rescue and Family Reunion
Charlotte's Rescue:
At approximately 6:32 PM, authorities safely retrieved Charlotte. She was found alive, in good health, and was immediately transported to Albany Medical Center Hospital.
Family’s Reaction:
The reunion at the hospital was emotional and filled with relief. Charlotte's aunt, Janae, described the moment as “the best news Charlotte's parents could ever hear” ([21:50]).
Community Support:
A vigil was held by classmates, friends, and family members on the Hudson River, embodying the community's solidarity and hope for Charlotte's safe return.
Aftermath and Legal Proceedings
Charges and Sentencing:
In November 2023, prosecutors added four charges against Ross Jr., including predatory sexual assault on a child and endangering the welfare of a child. Although he initially pleaded not guilty, April 17, 2024, marked his sentencing following a plea deal. Ross Jr. received a cumulative 47-year prison sentence, ensuring lengthy incarceration and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
Notable Quote:
At [30:22], Delia states, “Charlotte’s courage not only saved her but also ensured that Ross Jr. could never harm another child.”
Family’s Advocacy:
Charlotte’s family launched the podcast "Sisterhood of the Survivors" to advocate for the Child Survivor Privacy Act, aiming to assign dedicated advocates to minor survivors of sexual assault throughout the legal process. They collaborated with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children to utilize Charlotte’s story in assisting other families facing similar tragedies.
Impact Statement:
In court, Tricia delivered a powerful message:
"I don't understand why people like you do the things that you do. You took something from my daughter that cannot be replaced, and I will never forgive you for that... She is everything that you are lacking. She is everything good in this world, and you are nothing." ([30:50])
Notable Quote:
Janae reflected, “Charlotte is the real hero, having not only kept herself alive but also ensuring that Ross Jr. can never harm another child again. She is everything good in this world, and you are nothing.”
Conclusion and Ongoing Advocacy
Resilience and Hope:
Charlotte’s family continues to rebuild their lives, honoring her strength and resilience. Their advocacy efforts aim to transform their traumatic experience into meaningful legislative and societal change, ensuring better protection and support for child survivors.
Closing Remarks by Delia:
Delia concludes the episode by acknowledging the sensitivity of covering such recent and emotional cases. She expressed gratitude for the family's collaboration and respect for their privacy, emphasizing Charlotte’s identity as a "courageous survivor" who strives to prevent her experience from defining her.
Call to Action:
Listeners are encouraged to support the "Sisterhood of the Survivors" podcast and follow Charlotte’s family’s efforts to enact the Child Survivor Privacy Act. Delia provides resources and links for those wishing to learn more or contribute to the cause.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
[02:15]
Delia D’Ambra: “Charlotte’s disappearance felt like every update on social media was a heartbeat skipped by parents everywhere.” -
[11:45]
Delia D’Ambra: “Finding Charlotte alive was the beacon of hope that fueled the relentless pursuit of justice.” -
[21:50]
Janae (Charlotte's Aunt): “We are thrilled that she is home, and we understand that the outcome is not what every family gets... Thank you to the FBI and all agencies involved.” -
[30:22]
Delia D’Ambra: “Charlotte’s courage not only saved her but also ensured that Ross Jr. could never harm another child.” -
[30:50]
Tricia (Charlotte's Mother): “I don’t understand why people like you do the things that you do... She is everything that you are lacking. She is everything good in this world, and you are nothing.”
Final Thoughts
"The Loop" is a poignant exploration of a family's nightmare within the backdrop of nature's beauty. Delia D’Ambra masterfully navigates the complexities of the case, shedding light on the resilience of Charlotte and her family. This episode not only recounts a terrifying ordeal but also underscores the importance of community, advocacy, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
For listeners seeking inspiration from Charlotte’s survival and the family’s determination to drive change, "The Loop" serves as a testament to human strength and the enduring quest for safety and justice in our natural sanctuaries.
Listen to "The Loop" on Park Predators and support Charlotte’s family advocacy by tuning into their podcast, Sisterhood of the Survivors.