Urgent Search: 17-Year-Old Alkeriah Mayes Missing in Fort Pierce!

Okeechobee Road, Fort Pierce, Florida, USA - On June 18, 2025, the Fort Pierce Police Department is seeking help in finding a 17-year-old girl named Alkeriah Mayes, who has been reported missing after running away from her home on Okeechobee Road. Alkeriah was last seen wearing dark gray shorts, a white t-shirt, a black bonnet, and shoes. She stands 5’2″ tall and weighs approximately 150 pounds. Authorities urge anyone with information about her whereabouts to contact the police department at 772-979-1408, as every moment counts in ensuring her safe return. This case highlights the urgency and importance of community involvement in local safety matters, as investigators work tirelessly to piece together Alkeriah’s last movements. CW34 reports.

But while the search for Alkeriah Mayes unfolds, the Fort Pierce Police Department is grappling with a serious issue on a different front—mismanagement of evidence that has plagued the department for decades. This troubling situation came to light after an internal investigation prompted by allegations against evidence technician Christoph Dreizehnter. Chief Diane Hobley-Burney initiated the investigation in February 2024, which revealed that only six out of 27 evidence items could be located before a pretrial hearing that same month.

Evidence Mismanagement Issues

The investigation uncovered a staggering level of disarray within the evidence room, leading to numerous court cases being dismissed, including some that resulted in not guilty verdicts. Major Eric Chan has taken significant steps, initiating a comprehensive audit that revealed a staggering 9,115 items were unaccounted for. Some pieces of evidence were marked as stored but could not be found, while others were listed as destroyed but still remained on the shelves. Such discrepancies undermine the integrity of the entire judicial process, raising concerns about how justice is served in Fort Pierce.

In reviewing 67 active felony and misdemeanor cases, the audit found discrepancies in 11 of them, resulting in the dismissal of two drug cases directly linked to this mismanagement. This adds yet another layer of urgency to the department’s response, as the evidence mishap may lead to wrongful dismissals and potentially risky situations for the community as a whole. Reports indicate that personal belongings of individuals incarcerated were also affected. For instance, Levonte Smith, acquitted of attempted murder, received $6,000 for items he claimed were disposed of without proper explanation.

Steps Towards Change

In light of these troubling revelations, the Fort Pierce Police Department is committed to changing its protocols to protect evidence and personal belongings better. Among several initiatives, no destruction of evidence has occurred since the investigation started, with new checks implemented before any evidence is destroyed or returned. Additionally, an easier-to-use cataloging software will soon be introduced, and an additional sergeant is being assigned full-time to oversee the evidence room, aiming to establish a robust system to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Major Chan has reassured the public that there is no indication of stolen evidence, which may offer some reassurance amid an otherwise concerning scenario. WPTV reports.

As the community awaits updates on Alkeriah Mayes, the challenges highlighted by the evidence mismanagement serve as a wake-up call. It’s a reminder that systemic issues can impact not just individual cases, but the broader fabric of trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Keeping a vigilant eye and fostering open lines of communication between the police and the public will be crucial as Fort Pierce navigates these troubling waters.