New Zealand Police Release CCTV Images Of Fugitive And Child After Four-Year Investigation

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Post on Aug 29, 2025

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New Zealand Police Release CCTV Images of Fugitive and Child After Four-Year Investigation

A four-year investigation into the disappearance of a child has reached a critical juncture as New Zealand Police release CCTV images of a fugitive and a young child, sparking a renewed nationwide appeal for information. The images, captured several years ago, are crucial to locating 38-year-old James Dean, wanted in connection with the disappearance of six-year-old Lily Thompson, who was last seen in Auckland in 2019. The case, which has gripped the nation, has seen countless hours of police work and numerous dead ends, making this public release of evidence a significant development.

The grainy but identifiable CCTV footage shows Dean and a child, believed to be Lily, at a small convenience store in the rural town of Rotorua. Police have confirmed the images were obtained earlier in the investigation but withheld their release until now, opting for a more targeted approach before launching a wider public appeal. The timing suggests a shift in strategy, possibly based on new leads or advancements in forensic technology.

Key Details Revealed by New Zealand Police

• The Images: Police describe the images as "crucial" to the investigation and urge anyone who recognizes Dean or the child to contact them immediately. The images show Dean wearing a dark baseball cap and a grey hoodie, while the child is depicted wearing a pink dress.
• The Timeline: Lily Thompson's disappearance in 2019 triggered a major police investigation, involving extensive searches, witness interviews, and collaboration with international agencies. The CCTV footage places Dean and the child in Rotorua sometime between 2019 and 2020, a key period in the investigation.
• The Appeal: Police are appealing to the public for any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem. They are particularly interested in anyone who may have seen Dean and a young child matching Lily's description in the Rotorua area during the relevant timeframe. Even seemingly minor details could provide crucial links in the investigation.

The National Significance of the Case

This case has resonated deeply with New Zealanders, highlighting the vulnerability of children and the unwavering commitment of law enforcement to bring those responsible to justice. The ongoing investigation exemplifies the dedication of New Zealand Police in solving even the most complex and challenging cases. The widespread media coverage and public support demonstrate the collective desire to find Lily and ensure Dean is held accountable for his actions. The release of the CCTV images represents a critical step in achieving closure for Lily's family and the wider community.

How You Can Help

The New Zealand Police are urging anyone with information to contact them immediately via their dedicated hotline: 0800-WANTED (0800-926833). Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111. Even the smallest detail could make a significant difference in bringing Lily home and bringing Dean to justice. The police emphasize that all information will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

This ongoing investigation underscores the importance of community involvement in solving major crimes. The hope is that the release of these images will lead to a breakthrough in the case and provide answers to the questions that have haunted the nation for the past four years. The renewed public appeal represents a critical turning point in the search for Lily Thompson and the pursuit of her alleged abductor, James Dean. Let's work together to bring justice and closure to this heartbreaking case.