TCDA Bureau of Investigations Abduction Unit Recovers Children from Queens, New York
On December 16, 2021, two children, ages four and six, were returned to their father by the Bureau of Investigation’s Child Abduction Unit. Investigators traveled to Queens, New York, to locate the children and their mother, Chanel Pensotti. Pensotti violated custody orders by leaving the state with her children. Tulare County Superior Court Judge Tara James had granted sole legal and physical custody to the father. The father tried unsuccessfully to locate his children and on December 3, 2021, Judge James issued a court order enabling the District Attorney’s Child Abduction Unit to find and recover the children.
On December 12, 2021, criminal investigators flew to New York City where they worked closely with law enforcement from the New York City Police Department and Queens County District Attorney’s Office to continue the investigation as to the whereabouts of Ms. Pensotti and the two children. The children were found unharmed and were reunited with their father at Los Angeles International Airport on December 16, 2021.
The Child Abduction Unit is dedicated to following court orders and safely returning abducted children to their legal guardians. Investigators have recovered children from across the United States and Mexico, and as far away as New Zealand. These recoveries only take place after a judge has issued an order for the child or children to be returned to the custodial guardian. If you have questions regarding abducted children, please contact the Bureau of Investigations at (559) 636-5410.
Media inquiries can be directed to the Office of the District Attorney, County of Tulare Assistant Chief Investigator Eric Grant (559) 636-5494