News Summary
The investigation into the disappearance of 12-year-old Emily Hollis has escalated as authorities concluded she was likely a victim of human trafficking. Initially considered a runaway, Emily was located days later after being reported missing following interactions with a 16-year-old on social media. The case has raised alarm about the vulnerabilities minors face online. Despite being home safely, Emily underwent a forensic interview revealing disturbing details about her experiences. The Hollis family’s plight reflects broader concerns regarding human trafficking and the protection of minors.
Beaufort, South Carolina – A tragic investigation into the disappearance of 12-year-old Emily Hollis has revealed that she was likely a victim of human trafficking after she went missing from her home in February 2025. Initially classified as a runaway by local authorities, her case has since sparked significant community concern and raised awareness about the potential dangers faced by minors online.
Emily was reported missing after being last seen with 16-year-old Chase Eskeets, who she had met on the social media platform Snapchat. Her family remains uncertain about the nature of Emily’s communications with Eskeets, as they were unaware of their relationship until after she returned home. Following several days of searching, Emily and Eskeets were located in Jacksonville, Florida.
The classification of Emily as a runaway led to community outrage, particularly as she is a minor. Following her safe return, Emily underwent a forensic interview conducted by the South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS). It was during this interview that Emily disclosed troubling experiences indicative of trafficking.
According to the findings from SCDSS, her case has been officially labeled as human trafficking. Evidence suggests that, during her time away, Emily accessed a separate phone provided by a friend to communicate with Eskeets, despite her parents having confiscated her own phone due to behavioral issues. Investigators found that Eskeets allegedly groomed Emily, taking advantage of her vulnerabilities, which included feelings of loneliness and jealousy exacerbated by social media interactions.
Compounding the situation, it has been reported that Emily tested positive for illegal drugs during her ordeal, highlighting the severe risks minors face when interacting with strangers online.
Upon receiving the SCDSS report, the Hollis family sought clarity from the Beaufort Police Department regarding jurisdictional issues related to their daughter’s case. The police department indicated they could not take action since the case had been transferred to local authorities in Jacksonville, leading to confusion for the family about the handling of human trafficking cases in Beaufort.
The Beaufort Police maintained that they adhere to standard procedures when dealing with reported missing persons, treating all cases equitably, irrespective of initial classifications. However, the Hollis family has expressed frustration over the perceived lack of answers and inconsistent information from various agencies involved.
The troubling nature of this incident is underscored by recent data from South Carolina’s Human Trafficking Task Force, which reported 285 tips and nearly 400 potential victims statewide in 2024. With human trafficking incidents reported across 40 counties in South Carolina, it is noted that minors represent a significant portion of those affected.
In response to the growing crisis, the South Carolina General Assembly allocated $6.5 million in 2024 specifically for residential programming aimed at assisting minor victims of human trafficking. This funding underscores the urgent need for better support systems to protect young victims and their families.
The Hollis family has expressed their determination to raise awareness surrounding the challenges faced by families with missing children and the systemic issues involved in human trafficking cases. Their hope is to foster improved resources and support strategies to help protect future generations.
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Additional Resources
- Your Island News: DSS Runaway Beaufort Preteen Victim of Human Trafficking
- Bluffton Today: New SC Human Trafficking Task Force Annual Report
- Island Packet: Opinion on Human Trafficking Issues
- WTOC: SC Attorney General Discusses Lowcountry Human Trafficking Numbers
- Google Search: Human Trafficking South Carolina
