Mint Butterfield, the missing child of Slack’s co-founder, was found in San Francisco with an adult man named Christopher “Kio” Dizefalo, who is now facing kidnapping charges. Mint, a 16-year-old who is nonbinary, disappeared from their Bolinas home and was found with Dizefalo, described as an “adult friend,” by the Marin County Sheriff’s Office. Dizefalo was arrested and booked on suspicion of child abduction and other violations, with bail set at $50,000.
The pair was found inside Dizefalo’s white van in San Francisco’s Tenderloin District. Mint, who was deemed “at-risk” due to previous threats of suicide, was found unharmed. Mint told detectives that they had voluntarily run away from home and have since been reunited with their family. However, authorities suspect Dizefalo of coaxing the teen to run away.
Mint’s parents, Stewart Butterfield and Caterina Fake, expressed their gratitude to investigators for bringing their child home. The tech founders also thanked the community, law enforcement, and volunteers who played a role in Mint’s recovery. Mint was reported missing by their mother the morning after they were last seen in Bolinas, with a note indicating their intention to run away. Mint was known to frequent the Tenderloin neighborhood, where they were found with Dizefalo.
The situation raised concerns about the dangers of predators using drugs to groom teenagers and lure them away from their homes. Mint’s parents and stepfather, Jyri Engeström, emphasized the importance of community support and law enforcement efforts in ensuring Mint’s safe return. Mint’s case highlighted the vulnerability of teenagers to such predators and the need for vigilance in safeguarding young individuals like Mint.
The incident involving Mint Butterfield and Christopher Dizefalo shed light on the risks faced by runaway teenagers and the role of adults in influencing their decisions. The circumstances surrounding Mint’s disappearance and recovery raised awareness about the importance of community involvement and support in safeguarding vulnerable individuals. Mint’s resilience and eventual return home underscored the impact of timely intervention and collaborative efforts in addressing cases of missing youth. The family’s gratitude towards those involved reflects the relief and gratitude felt by families in similar situations when their loved ones are safely reunited.