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State could face challenges in Jacksonville hospital abduction case

By Action News Jax
By Action News Jax

The woman accused of abducting newborn Kamiyah Mobley from a Jacksonville hospital in 1998 could be brought to Jacksonville at any time.

Gloria Williams was arrested Friday morning in Walterboro, South Carolina after investigators matched DNA from Mobley to that of the missing infant.

The state’s case against Williams, who is accused of posing as a hospital employee and abducting newborn Mobley 18 years ago, is just beginning.

Teen abducted from Jacksonville hospital at birth reunited with parents

Williams faces felony kidnapping and interference with custody charges.

Officials said she could spend the rest of her life in prison if convicted.

“The resources of the State Attorney’s Office will be dedicated to ensuring that justice happens,” State Attorney Melissa Nelson said.

Action News Jax crime and safety expert Dale Carson said the case has some unusual challenges.

“The evidence is 18 years old,” Carson said. “Anything with age on it makes it difficult. Witnesses are gone, information is gone.”

Carson said proving Williams was the one who abducted Mobley could also be a difficulty.

“It may be true that a child kidnapped here 18 years ago was found with a person, but that doesn’t mean that particular person abducted that person 18 years ago on a Friday,” Carson said.

Photos: Kamiyah Mobley found living under new name in South Carolina

Carson said if Williams is convicted, the now 18-year-old she raised as her own would be allowed input on the sentencing.

“In Florida, victims get a say in the sentence of individuals convicted of the crime against (them),” Carson said.

Investigators are working to learn more about Williams ties to Florida as they wait for extradition orders to bring her back to Jacksonville.

Full coverage on ActionNewsJax.com

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