The search for 7-year-old Royal Marks has concluded, as the child has been found safe and his mother, Michelle Marks, is now in police custody. According to a statement obtained by Gwinnett County Police Department, detectives acted with urgency and were aided by both the Los Angeles Police Department and federal and state agencies in locating the pair in Los Angeles after Michelle Marks traveled from Atlanta to L.A. using a false identity.
Michelle Marks, who had previously lost custody of Royal due to child neglect allegations while living in Oklahoma, is now facing kidnapping charges. The original police response came on Tuesday to a call from the 3500 block of Valley Bluff Lane in Snellville, Georgia, where Royal's father reported the abduction. The father stated that Michelle had taken Royal during the middle of the night after making threats to harm herself in light of an upcoming custody hearing. Gwinnett investigators, after issuing kidnapping warrants for Michelle, diligently worked with federal authorities which led to the successful apprehension.
Michelle Marks, who has used several aliases like Michelle Jones, Michelle Legacy, and Michelle Young, complicated the investigation. The 5'3" woman also had several outstanding warrants in Oklahoma. Details about her arrest and how law enforcement found her and Royal have not been fully disclosed, but more information is expected as the investigation continues.
The GCPD and Crime Stoppers previously asked the public to share any information about the case. Crime Stoppers offers anonymity and a reward for tips leading to an arrest. Although the case is resolved, the Gwinnett County Police still encourage anyone with more information to come forward, as it could help with the legal process and shed light on Michelle Marks' actions during the ordeal.
