Missing Marina boy found safe and returned to father, police say

On Monday, Marina police said a 5-year-old boy missing for more than two weeks was found in Salinas Thursday. Police said the boy was safely returned to his father, who has custody of him.

Last week, investigators said he was picked from school up by his aunt, Nellie Pena, who usually transports him. They believe she may have handed him off to his biological mother, Patricia Pena, who does not have custody rights.

The case has been forwarded to the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office. Officers said Patricia Pena was arrested and faces charges associated with child concealment and violating a court order.

Marina police said investigators worked on several tips with Salinas police to locate him safely.