Pregnant Teen Still Missing Even After 'Expert Groomer' Admits To Killing Her

Jarvis Butts pleaded guilty to Na'Ziyah Harris' second-degree murder and other sexual assault charges, but the 13-year-old's body has not been found.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A Michigan man named Jarvis Butts has admitted to killing a pregnant 13-year-old girl named Na'Ziyah Harris, who went missing in 2024. Butts, a registered sex offender, pleaded guilty to Harris' second-degree murder and several sexual assault charges as part of a plea deal, but the teen's body has still not been recovered.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of child sexual abuse and grooming, as well as the challenges law enforcement faces in finding missing persons, especially young victims. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of the child welfare system in protecting vulnerable children from predators.

The details

Butts allegedly started grooming Harris in June 2022 and later killed her after learning he had impregnated her in September 2023. Prosecutors claim Butts searched online about abortions and drinking antifreeze, and text messages suggest he told Harris he would pick her up from school on January 9, 2024, the last day she was seen alive. Butts was traced to the Rouge River in Detroit a day after Harris' disappearance, and a single shoe belonging to Harris was found there. Harris' school ID card and clothes were also discovered in the area where Butts' phone was traced.

  • In June 2022, Butts allegedly started grooming Harris.
  • In September 2023, Butts learned he had impregnated Harris.
  • On January 9, 2024, Harris was last seen alive.
  • A day after Harris' disappearance, Butts was traced to the Rouge River in Detroit.
  • On March 12, Butts is scheduled to be sentenced.

The players

Jarvis Butts

A Michigan man who admitted to killing a pregnant 13-year-old girl named Na'Ziyah Harris. Butts is a registered sex offender with a history of sexual misconduct allegations.

Na'Ziyah Harris

A 13-year-old girl who went missing in 2024 and was later revealed to have been killed by Jarvis Butts, who had been grooming her since 2022.

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What they’re saying

“'I don't what your problem but I need you to bring me what I need tonight it's hard doing all this gym s**t with this baby and if I don't do em I'm gonna get a F,'”

— Na'Ziyah Harris (WDIV)

What’s next

Butts' sentencing is scheduled for March 12.

The takeaway

This case highlights the devastating consequences of child sexual abuse and the urgent need for stronger protections and support systems to prevent such tragedies from occurring. It also underscores the importance of thorough investigations and effective collaboration between law enforcement, child welfare agencies, and the community to locate missing persons and hold perpetrators accountable.