Carlee Russell, the woman who sparked a nationwide search effort when she appeared to be kidnapped, is now admitting that she made up the whole story about her disappearance. Russell confessed to police in Hoover, Alabama, saying she apologizes to everybody who was concerned about her. In a statement to Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis, attorney Emory Anthony said “there was no kidnapping on July 13” and there was no baby on the side of the road as the woman claimed when she called 911.
“My client did not leave the Hoover area when she was identified as a missing person. My client did not have any help in this incident, but this was a single act done by herself,’’ Anthony wrote according to AL.com. “My client was not with anyone or at any hotel during the time she was missing,’’
It’s not clear why Russell faked her own kidnapping or where she stayed during the two days she was gone.
”I wish I could tell you,’’ Derzis said according to AL. “I think only Carlee knows, and maybe her attorney knows now.”
As Blavity previously reported, Russell called 911 on July 13 and said she saw a toddler walking alone on the highway. However, Russell was already gone before police arrived at the scene. After disappearing for two days, the 25-year-old returned home on her own, saying she escaped from a kidnapper.
Anthony said Russell is now asking for prayers as as she “addresses her issues and intends to move understanding that she made a mistake.’’
“My client apologizes for her actions to the community, the volunteers who were searching for her, to the Hoover Police Department and other agencies, as well as to her friends and family,’’ the attorney said.
Russell is not facing charges at this time. However, Derzis said police are still discussing the possible consequences.
”We will announce those charges when, and if, they are filed,’’ he said.
Derzis is glad to have the statement from Russell, but still hopes to sit down for an interview with her.
”It at least puts some of the social media super sleuths hopefully to rest for a little bit,’’ he said. “We know by her own admission it didn’t happen and we’re thankful for that.”
