06/23/2026
JUNE 23 ARREST UPDATE: A Key Largo man is facing kidnapping and s*x-crime charges after deputies said a teenage girl called 911 and reported she was being held hostage at his home.
Christopher Michael Veit, 53, was arrested June 21 after Monroe County deputies responded to a Miramar Drive home around 11:45 a.m. Deputies said the teen was from out of county. When they arrived, they found her hidden inside a clothes dryer.
Authorities said Veit allegedly restrained the girl, put her in the dryer, and took her phone when she said she wanted to leave. Detectives also said they learned there had been ongoing s*xual activity between Veit and the minor. Local reports said the charges indicate the victim was 16 or 17, though officials did not publicly release her exact age.
Veit was charged with kidnapping/false imprisonment, interference with child custody, and four counts of unlawful s*xual activity with a minor. Detectives also collected evidence from the home, including several sheets of counterfeit currency, and notified the U.S. Secret Service.
The teen was taken to Mariners Hospital in Tavernier, then placed with a family member. The Florida Department of Children and Families was notified. Authorities said the case remains ongoing and more charges may be pending. Local reports said Veit had no listed bond as of late Monday morning, and his arraignment is scheduled for August 4.
Parents, teach your kids this now: if someone takes your phone, blocks the door, locks you in, threatens you, or says “don’t tell,” call 911 if you can. If you cannot talk, leave the line open. Whisper the address. Bang on walls. Run to a neighbor, store, school, or any adult in public. Use a family code word if you need help but cannot explain. And parents, check who your teen talks to, who gives rides, where they go, and which adults try to get private access. Your child should know this clearly: you will not be mad if they ask for help. Survive first. Explain later.
SOURCES: Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Local 10 News, Keys Weekly, PEOPLE, WSVN 7News