In a news conference today by Hoover officials, Police Chief Nick Derzis read a statement from the attorney of Carlee Russell, announcing on her behalf, “there was no kidnapping” that led to her 49-hour disappearance.
Derzis also said the department is in discussions with the Jefferson County District Attorney Office about “possible criminal charges.”
The letter from Russell’s attorney said she apologizes for her actions, as well.
“My client has given me permission to make the following statement on her behalf. There was no kidnapping on Thursday, July 13th 2023,” the letter stated. “My client did not see a baby on the side of the road. 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. This was single act done by herself.
“My client was not with anyone with any hotel with anyone from the time she was missing. My client apologizes for actions to this community, the volunteers who were searching for her for, to the Hoover Police Department and other agencies, as well to her friends and family.”
RELATED: Carlee Russell searched ‘Taken,’ bus ticket before disappearance
Last Wednesday’s press conference with Hoover officials revealed internet searches made by Russell before her disappearance related to Amber Alerts, the movie “Taken,” and a one-way bus ticket from Birmingham to Nashville.
“I think the facts last Wednesday pretty much showed we knew it was a hoax,” Derzis said today.
“We’re currently in discussions with Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office in Bessemer about possible criminal charges related to this case, and we will announce those charges when and if they are filed.”
Russell could face serious legal charges for misleading law enforcement — especially as it relates to the scale of agencies involved in the 49-hour search.
“We don’t have a dollar figure yet,” Derzis said. “But we’re certainly working toward getting one.”
Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270
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