shot-button
Maharashtra Elections 2024 Maharashtra Elections 2024
Home > News > World News > Article > Abducted boy found in Grandmas secret cell

Abducted boy found in Grandma's secret cell

Updated on: 07 September,2009 07:38 AM IST  | 
Agencies |

Ricky's mother charged with felony child abduction and grandmom with aiding and abetting

Abducted boy found in Grandma's secret cell

Ricky's mother charged with felony child abduction and grandmom with aiding and abetting






In good spirits

Richard 'Ricky' Chekevdia, who turns 7 on September 14, was in good spirits and physically fit after he was found on Friday by investigators with a court order to search the two-storey rural home about 200 kilometres southeast of St. Louis.

The boy's mother, Shannon Wilfong, 30, is charged with felony child abduction. The grandmother, Diane Dobbs, 50, is charged with aiding and abetting.

Tough Times: Richard 'Ricky' Chekevdia was kidnapped nearly two years ago.


Ricky's dad is thrilled that the search has ended. "Two years? You have no idea," said Mike Chekevdia (48), a lieutenant colonel in the Illinois National Guard. "I've lost sleep. I've lost weight. I've gained weight. I wouldn't wish this on anybody," he added.

Chekevdia won temporary custody of his son shortly before the boy and his mother Chekevdia's former girlfriend disappeared in November 2007. A month later, Wilfong was charged in absentia with abducting the boy.

After freedom

"We let him out of the (patrol) car and he ran around like he'd never seen outdoors. It was actually very sad," state police Master Sgt. Stan Diggs said. "He was very happy to be outside.
u00a0
He said he never goes outside."

Last year, Dobbs told the Southern Illinoisan newspaper her daughter had been forced into hiding to keep the boy from his father. She called the custody dispute a "nightmare for all of us."

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!


Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK