National News

Father of missing Ariz. girl separated from family

Posted: 05/14/12 at 3:35 pm    Updated: 05/14/12 at 6:12 pm
Tags: Isabel Mercedes Celis   missing tucson girl   arizona missing girl  

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) -- Arizona authorities are prohibiting the father of a missing Tucson girl from having any contact with his other children, but they say that doesn't mean he's a suspect in her disappearance.

Police Sgt. Maria Hawke confirmed Monday that Sergio Celis was ordered to have no contact with his two sons.

Authorities declined to provide details. They cited a need to ensure the welfare of Isabel Mercedes Celis' older siblings.

Police say they can't confirm whether Sergio Celis was alone with his 6-year-old daughter on April 21, when she was reported missing.

The order comes after officials with state child welfare met with detectives. Officials say it's common for the agency to get involved in investigations regarding missing children.

Police don't know what happened to Isabel. They haven't identified a suspect.

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