I find this quote from the article above very strange, especially the last part-
"Officer Levy insists this is a missing persons investigation, not a homicide investigation, and John Deblase is not considered a suspect."
I think it's strange, too. Would that be so dad doesnt' get spooked? Maybe they are hoping to get him to come in and talk. Maybe there is still hope that he has the kids with him.
People throw each other under the bus all the time. Step mom is in custody. She may say things to put the blame on dad, and maybe the police are trying to keep things neutral.