ASHLEY GRACE WARD - 13 yo -Sumter (E of Columbia) SC/FL alerted

After alerting the public of a missing 13-year-old weeks ago, Sumter County deputies have increased their efforts to find Ashley Grace Ward.



Investigators with the Sumter County Sheriff's Office are searching for Ward and 18-year-old Simeon Janard Canty, who they believe is accompanying the missing teenager. Canty will be charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor when he is arrested.Deputies say on Nov. 11, Ward and Canty were last seen at the McDonald's on Garners Ferry Road and Rosewood Dr. at about noon. Investigators say Canty has ties to South Florida.Ward is said to be about 5'7" in height and about 160 pounds in weight. Deputies say Canty is about 6'2" in height and 160 pounds in weight.

Man faces charges in connection with teen



An 18-year-old man is facing charges in connection with his 13-year-old girlfriend, who'd been reported missing in November and returned home Tuesday.
Simeon Canty, of 1843 Kolb Road, has been charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor and second-degree criminal sexual conduct, according to a press release from the Sumter County Sheriff's Office.

The girl was reported missing on Nov. 11 and was thought to be in Canty's company. Police think the suspect prompted the girl to leave her home, without her parent's consent or knowledge, and not return, the release states.
A bond hearing is set for 7:30 a.m. today at the Sumter-Lee Regional Detention Center

http://www.theitem.com/news/article_0994c34a-a04c-548a-8503-e4d9c5a518ed.html.