West Covina Police Searching for Woman Who Allegedly Abducted 18-Month-Old Nephew

Amber Alexis Destiny Zarate, 26, is out on parole and has a history of violent tendencies, authorities say.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The West Covina Police Department is searching for 26-year-old Amber Alexis Destiny Zarate, who is alleged to have abducted her 18-month-old nephew, Isaiah Sunel Nava, from his residence on Friday morning. Zarate, who is currently out on parole with outstanding warrants, has a history of drug use and violent tendencies, according to police.

Why it matters

Child abductions are a serious and traumatic crime that raise concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of the criminal justice system, especially when the alleged perpetrator has a history of violence and is out on parole.

The details

According to the police, officers responded to a reported kidnapping around 5:50 a.m. on Friday, where they learned that Zarate had allegedly taken her young nephew from his home. Surveillance video shows Zarate in the area around the time of the reported abduction. Zarate is currently unhoused and frequents the Los Angeles area.

  • The incident was reported to police around 5:50 a.m. on Friday, February 14, 2026.

The players

Amber Alexis Destiny Zarate

A 26-year-old woman who is alleged to have abducted her 18-month-old nephew. Zarate is currently out on parole with outstanding warrants and has a history of drug use and violent tendencies.

Isaiah Sunel Nava

The 18-month-old nephew of Amber Alexis Destiny Zarate, who was allegedly abducted from his residence.

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What’s next

Police are urging anyone who sees Zarate or the child to call 911 immediately. They are also encouraging the public to contact the West Covina Police Department or Los Angeles Regional Crime Stoppers with any information about the case.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing child abductions, particularly when the alleged perpetrator has a history of violence and is out on parole. It underscores the need for stronger safeguards and support systems to protect vulnerable children and prevent such traumatic incidents from occurring.