No charges have been filed against Russell. She intends to move "as she addresses her issues," a statement from attorney Emory Anthony read.
www.al.com
7/24/23
Her attorney, Emory Anthony, sent this statement to Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis Monday morning:
“My client has given me permission to make the following statement on her behalf:
There was no kidnapping on July 13, 2023. 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, but this was a single act done by herself,’' Anthony wrote.
“My client was not with anyone or at any hotel during the time she was missing,’' Anthony said.
"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 in the statement.
“We ask for your prayers for Carlee as she addresses her issues and intends to move understanding that she made a mistake,’' Anthony said. “Carlee again asks for your forgiveness and prayers.”
Anthony told AL.com that Russell told him she was not at the Red Roof Inn, which has been widely reported on social media.
No charges have been filed against Russell.
Derzis said they have a meeting scheduled with Anthony on Tuesday to further discuss the case.
Derzis said police are in discussions with the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office in the Bessemer Cutoff about possible criminal charges.