DETROIT (WWJ) - Detroit Police say a 21-year-old man is facing multiple felony charges for the sexual assault of a 12-year-old girl on the city’s east side.

Carnell Ferrell was arrested and charged with three counts of first degree criminal sexual conduct.

Police say their investigation began on July 8 after they were contacted by the girl’s mother who wanted to file a serious missing persons report. The victim’s mother told police she went to check on her daughter around 2 a.m. and discovered that she was not in the house.

Investigators say they followed a trail of evidence, which led them to a home located in the 12600 block of Wilfred. The victim was found inside of the dwelling with Ferrell, police say.

Police believe the young girl ran away from her home to be with Ferrell, who was taken into custody without incident on site.

Ferrell’s bond was set for $500,000. He’s due back in court for a preliminary examination on July 23.