DNA links kidnapping suspect to missing Columbia teen
COLUMBIA — Richland County deputies say they have found a mix of the DNA of a missing Columbia teen and her accused kidnapper on a roll of duct tape found at the suspect’s home.
Sheriff Leon Lott said Friday that scientists tell him the DNA mix shows 15-year-old Gabbiee Swainson and 52-year-old Freddie Grant were together at the same time at his home.
Investigators charged Grant with kidnapping, saying he took the teen from her home on Aug. 18. The girl has not been seen since.
Swainson’s mother was at the news conference and said she has written a letter to Grant asking to meet him face-to-face. He has not responded. The two dated before the teen disappeared.
Grant is asking for bond for a separate federal ammunition charge.
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Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP
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