Carlethia “Carlee” Nichole Russellwas not kidnapped earlier this month, she admitted through an attorney on Monday. Hoover, Alabama police read the statement on Monday during apress conferencein which they said criminal charges were possible.
HOOVER (AL) POLICE DEPARTMENT
Anthony went on to ask for prayers while Russell “addresses her issues and attempts to move forward, understanding that she made a mistake in this matter,” adding, “Carlee, again, asks for your forgiveness and prayers.”
Hoover Police Dept/Twitter
When officials arrived on the scene, they found Russell’s car still running with her belongings inside, while she was nowhere to be found. Aftermore than a statewide searchthat lasted over 48 hours, Russell reappeared at her parent’s house in Hoover on Saturday night. The police said they were“unable to verify” her claimsabout a missing toddler and other key details from the 911 call.
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After reading the statement, Chief Nicholas Derzis told reporters at Monday’s press conference that, “We knew it was a hoax.” He explained that investigators are still searching for answers about where Russell was during her disappearance and that criminal charges are still possible.
“I’m glad we got this, he added. “We certainly laid the facts out to you guys. The sad thing is, there were so many people that were involved and took this thing very very seriously, we wanted the focus to be bringing her home, we’re excited about that.”
source: people.com