Two toddlers from Utah are missing and believed to be in extreme danger after their father did not show up for a scheduled custody exchange. An AMBER Alert was issued for 22-month-old Will Richman and 10-month-old Wesley Richman in Saratoga Springs, Utah, on Saturday, May 16.
A family member asked for the public’s assistance, stating, “Please, we need your help and prayers for these boys.” The children’s father, Dane Stephen Richman, described in the alert as “seriously depressed” and under financial strain, is identified as a suspect. He has been selling his belongings and has abandoned his home.
The children’s mother contacted the police when Dane Richman missed a deposition related to their custody dispute on Thursday. She reached out again on Saturday when the children were not returned after the custody exchange, leading to the issuance of the AMBER Alert.
The alert provides details about Dane Stephen Richman: 6 feet 2 inches tall, weighing 195 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes. The boys have blonde hair and blue eyes. Will Richman is 2 feet 6 inches tall and weighs about 31 lbs; Wesley Richman is 2 feet 2 inches tall and weighs about 23 lbs.
Authorities believe they may be in a Black Toyota Camry with Utah license plate A561HL. However, the vehicle might have a temporary tag, and the license plate may not be visible.
Kate Walters, a family member, posted on Facebook about the abduction, urging the public to help and pray for the children’s safety.
Understanding AMBER Alerts
AMBER Alerts are issued when a child is believed to be abducted and in imminent danger. Named the America’s Missing: Broadcast Emergency Response, this system notifies the public about such situations aiming to assist in child’s safe recovery.
When law enforcement confirms the abduction of a child under 17, meeting certain criteria, an alert communicates key information about the child, the suspect, and any associated vehicle. This information is broadcast via sources like Wireless Emergency Alerts, TV, radio, and highway signs.
The system has played a crucial role in recovering over 1,000 missing children in the United States. Authorities stress the importance of quick action, as these alerts typically go out within hours of an abduction to increase the likelihood of a safe return.