Cumberland Authorities Step Up Search for Missing Teen

The sheriff's department first thought she was a runaway. Now, new information has come to light and they think she could be the victim of a crime.

Detectives say the teen has a history of running away from home, but she has never stayed away this long. In the past, she usually returned home after two days, but this time she's been missing for a month.

"Well, I just think in my mind that she's okay," said a tearful Cheryl Pollard, Allen's mother.

Pollard says she is worried sick about her daughter. Police say the girl was picked up by acquaintances on Highway 30l on June 14 and dropped off by the Foxfire subdivision on June 19. No one has seen her since.

"The detectives, in their investigation, talked to some people," said Sgt. Stephen McLamb. "Based on some statements that were given to them, they feel that maybe something was wrong, and that something has happened."

Pollard says her daughter just moved from New York to North Carolina in January, and that the teen has had trouble adjusting. Pollard says she prays her daughter is well, but that she fears the worst.

"I'm hurting. I want to know. You know, I really want to know what's going on with her," said Pollard.

Anyone with information on Allen's whereabouts is urged to call the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office at910-323-1500, or Crimestoppers at910-483-TIPS.

Detectives believe this is an isolated incident. They say while it's important that parents always keep an eye on their children, they don't believe there is kidnapper on the loose.