By Lynzee Mychael
Carlethia “Carlee” Russell’s captivating story grabbed the nation’s attention as she disappeared following her report of a wandering toddler on a busy freeway late in the evening on July 13th. Her case underscored the ongoing conversation about missing Black women and children and the urgent need to bring attention to their disappearances. However, an astonishing turn of events revealed that nothing was as it initially appeared; the real crime was not a kidnapping but a carefully orchestrated hoax that tugged at our heartstrings.
In a surprising turn of events, Russell was found guilty of two charges related to the kidnapping hoax in a municipal court in Hoover, Alabama. These charges include “false reporting to law enforcement authorities” and “falsely reporting an incident.” The state is advocating for a sentence of one year in jail and nearly $18,000 in restitution.
Russell entered a plea of not guilty to these charges, but Judge Brad Bishop followed the prosecutors’ recommendation. In municipal court, there is no jury trial; however, the constitution permits individuals facing jail time to have their cases heard and decided by a jury of their peers.
Russell, represented by attorneys Emory Anthony and Richard Jaffe, is pursuing an appeal in the circuit court. Anthony explained that they are contesting the verdict because state prosecutors are seeking jail time for Russell, which they believe is unwarranted for a Class A misdemeanor, especially considering that this is Russell’s first offense.
Authorities uncovered that Russell left her job at Woodhouse Day Spa, a position from which she has since been terminated, after taking a robe, toilet paper, and a small amount of cash. Her subsequent actions added more layers to the mystery.
She placed an order for food at Taziki’s at The Colonnade and then proceeded to Target on U.S. 280, where she purchased granola bars, Cheez-its, and a drink. She lingered in the store’s parking lot until 9:21 P.M. before driving to I-459. At 9:34 P.M., she called 911, reached out to her brother’s girlfriend around 9:36 P.M., and then mysteriously vanished. Notably, no one else reported witnessing a wandering toddler in the vicinity. During the 911 call, Russell’s location appeared to change as she traveled roughly 600 yards. Police discovered her wig, cell phone, and purse near her vehicle, while her Apple Watch was inside her purse. The food from Taziki’s was found in her car, but the items purchased from Target and those taken from the spa were conspicuously absent from the scene.
The extensive efforts of numerous law enforcement agencies, both local and federal, were dedicated not only to reuniting Carlee Russell with her family but also to identifying a kidnapper who, as we now know, never existed. Many private citizens volunteered their time and energy to search for a potential kidnapping victim who, in reality, was never in any danger.
While some may view this situation as a source of amusement, a significant number of people see it as a disrespectful manipulation of a serious issue, one that undermines the efforts to help missing young Black women and children. The question remains: Is the embarrassment she’s already endured sufficient punishment, or should she face legal consequences for her actions?
