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Kidnapped toddler recovered after taken by grandmother, NOPD reports

NOPD is searching for 2-year-old King-Josiah Holmes, who was reportedly taken by his grandmother on Tuesday, February 8 (Photo: NOPD).

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Police in New Orleans began searching for a young child who was reportedly taken by his grandmother early Tuesday morning.

NOPD reports 2-year-old King-Josiah Holmes was taken by his grandmother, 40-year-old Kieca Laney. The child has since been recovered in a safe condition, but police continue to search for Laney.


Police say around 12:30 a.m., a fight broke out at a home in the 9th Ward between Laney and her daughter, who is the child’s mother.

During the dispute, Laney reportedly took Holmes and left the location. No one has been able to contact her since the incident.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Laney on a charge of aggravated kidnapping.

NOPD is asking anyone who has seen Laney, or knows where she is, to contact NOPD Fifth District detectives at 504-658-6050. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans at 504-822-1111 or toll-free 1-877-903-STOP.