Authorities Escort Anthony Palma Inside OK County Jail

The man arrested in connection with the 1997 disappearance of 8-year-old Kirsten Hatfield is now in the county jail.

Anthony Palma was arrested Monday in the cold case. News 9 has the first images of Anthony Palma, as he's now behind bars at the Oklahoma County Jail.

10/13/15 Related Story: MWC Police Hope Arrest Will Lead To More Answers In Disappearance Case

Palma was walked into the Oklahoma County Jail late Tuesday night.

Before he was arrested, investigators closely watched Palma at his home for weeks and finally made their move on Monday.

The new detective re-interviewed ten men who were in contact with Kirsten before her disappearance. He also collected DNA samples from them, including Palma's, which police say is a match to blood found on Kirsten's underwear and window sill.

Kirstin's family now has faith that the nearly two decade long nightmare will soon come to an end.

“Our family is hopeful but we are very tired and just want to take this opportunity to let all of our friends and family know that we are okay,” said Kirsten’s Stepfather Chris Hazen.

The Midwest City Police chief says the investigation is still in the early stages and there are possibly more suspects involved.