Law enforcement officers searching for a missing Ozark County family are asking for the public’s help after a missing persons report for the Ruggles family was filed with the Ozark County Sheriff’s Office on May 5.
The Ozark County Sheriff’s Office said Justin, Jennifer and 5-month-old Barakah Ruggles, went on a religious sabbatical to Florida around the end of February. Jennifer last spoke with her family on March 6, and her family has not heard from her since.
Deputies have spoken with friends and family during the investigation and have tracked the Ruggles family to southern Florida, according to the sheriff’s office.
The Ruggles family was possibly traveling in a 2018 silver Dodge Ram 1500 with New Hampshire tag 445-8031.
The Ozark County Sheriff’s Office said Justin, 32, might be going by the name "Joseph," and Jennifer, 30, might be going by the name "Ruth.”
“Unfortunately, the timeline ends on April 12 in southern Florida with no other activity since that time,” the Ozark County Sheriff’s Office said.
Anyone with information about the Ruggles family should contact the Ozark County Sheriff’s Office at 417-679-4633.
Ozark County Sheriff Cass Martin requests that everyone work together to “help get this family located and bring peace to their families.”
“Our office had received a high number of calls and tips and we are grateful for each and every one,” said Martin. “Our deputies are investigating and following up on every call and Facebook message we receive, so please continue to call our office and provide any information you may have.”
