Kidnapped Boy Found in Las Vegas

Cole picked up alive after grandpa crossed Mexican drug cartel

By Matt Cantor, Newser Staff

Posted Oct 19, 2008 5:25 AM CDT

(Newser) – A 6-year-old Nevada boy kidnapped by men believed linked to a Mexican drug cartel has been found in “extremely good condition” walking on a Las Vegas street. Some 100 detectives had been working 12-hour shifts to find Cole Puffinburger, who was abducted from his Las Vegas home Wednesday by men claiming to be police, reports the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

A resident called police after spotting the boy. The case has been linked to millions of dollars stolen by the boy’s grandfather from a Mexican drug cartel. “I thank this whole community. I can’t thank you enough,” said his emotional father.

Robert Puffinburger, white t-shirt, waits to talk at a news conference in Las Vegas early Sunday, Oct. 19, 2008. Robert's son Cole Puffinburger, who was kidnapped on Oct. 15, was found alive Saturday. (AP Photo/Las Vegas Review-Journal, John Locher)

A happy Robert Puffinburger talks at a news conference in Las Vegas today. His kidnapped son, Cole, was found alive late yesterday in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)

Cole Puffinburger, 6. (AP Photo/Las Vegas Review-Journal)

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Cole picked up alive after grandpa crossed Mexican drug cartel

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

Las Vegas • kidnapping • drug cartel • missing child • Cole Puffinburger

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

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More Newser Stories

Drugs Linked to Boy's Kidnapping

Police target 'person of interest' as search for Cole continues

Vegas Kidnap Case Turns to Mexican Drug Probe

6-year-old safe after abduction linked to theft from cartel

Elizabeth Smart Hired by ABC News

Kidnapping victim will discuss missing person cases

Missing Va. Girl, Alleged Kidnapper Found in Calif.

Jeff Easley suspected in death of girl's mother

Missing SoCal Teenager Was Likely Abducted

Cops find Norma Lopez's belongings, signs of struggle

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