Authorities in Alabama have revealed that Carlee Russell’s story about being kidnapped on the side of a highway after stopping to check on a toddler was a hoax.
Ms Russell’s disappearance vexed law enforcement after the 25-year-old’s vehicle was found in the stretch of a highway following a 911 call she made reporting a stranded toddler.
She inexplicably reappeared at her parents’ home in Hoover 49 hours later, claiming she had been kidnapped by “a man with orange hair” and was forced to undress and pose for photographs.
After much speculation about the veracity of her claims, Hoover Police Department Chief Nicholas Derzis confirmed during a press conference on Monday that Ms Russell had admitted to lying about her supposed abduction in a statement she provided through her attorney.
“There was no kidnapping on Thursday, July 13. My client did not see a baby on the side of the road,” the statement read, according to Chief Derzis, who read it at a news conference. “My client apologizes for her actions to this community, the volunteers who were searching for her, to the Hoover Police Department and other agencies as well, as to her friends and family.”
Ms Russell asked the public for forgiveness and prayers as she continues to “address her issues.”
The Hoover Police Department announced the development five days after casting doubt on Ms Russell’s story.
Chief Derzis said it is possible that Russell could face charges amid an investigation into where Ms Russell was during the 49 hours that she claimed to be missing.
“This was an elaborate deal. When you talk about calling 911,” he said.
