A California teenager who alleged that he was groomed and sexually abused by a therapist while in juvenile detention has gone missing, according to his mother. She fears he may have run away to be with the former therapist, Sofia Drotts, highlighting concerns about safeguarding and alleged exploitation of vulnerable young people in custody.

The unnamed boy was held at Contra Costa County juvenile hall from 2024 until April 2026, where Drotts, 26, allegedly treated him. Drotts was arrested earlier in July on felony charges including unlawful sexual intercourse and later released on bail. The mother alleges Drotts continued seeing the teenager after his release, posing as his teenage girlfriend and attending healthcare appointments while continuing purported therapy sessions.