Dutch police say teenager who fought for right to sail solo around world is missing

Dutch teen who sought solo sailing trip disappears

THE HAGUE, Netherlands — Dutch police say teenage sailor Laura Dekker, who made headlines when she went to court to fight for the right to sail solo around the world, has been missing since Friday.

Utrecht police spokesman Bernhard Jens says the 14-year-old’s boat is still moored at its usual berth and she appears to have left her father’s home on her own. Police have alerted neighboring countries to monitor airports.

Jens told The Associated Press on Sunday, “We do not believe this is a crime.”

However, he says authorities are concerned for Dekker’s health.

Utrecht District Court refused to let Dekker set sail and placed her under the supervision of child care authorities.