A truck driver in Utah was taken into custody after officers responding to a multi-vehicle accident discovered a young girl looking out from behind a large refrigerated trailer. It turned out to be his half-sister.
Jacob Ortelscott, 28, was driving his massive tractor trailer when it became involved in a collision on Interstate 15 in Lyndon, which led to minor injuries for others involved.
His truck was struck by a semi that, unable to stop in time, crashed into nearby vehicles while Scott’s trailer remained still.
During the investigation, a trooper spotted the girl peering through the slats of the trailer, as detailed in court documents.
When questioned, Scott initially seemed surprised and later confirmed, somewhat hesitantly, that a child was indeed inside the trailer.
Other officers managed to open the trailer and found two young girls, aged 12 and 14, with bedding set up inside. It was noted that they were primarily trapped in there.
The refrigerated trailer had its thermostat set at a frigid 30 degrees, a temperature that could risk hypothermia. According to filings, the girls had been confined for around two hours.
While their condition following the ordeal remains somewhat unclear, reports indicate they were able to communicate with officials from the Utah Department of Investigation and Children and Family Services.
Authorities clarified that the girls were indeed half-sisters to Scott. They also confirmed there was no indication of trafficking involved, yet Scott was still arrested on charges of aggravated child abuse.
He is currently held at the Utah County Jail without the option for bail. Judge Sean Petersen noted “substantial evidence” that suggests Scott posed a significant risk.
