Ashlee Buzzard — the mother of missing 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard — has been released from jail after being arrested in a case that authorities say is unrelated to her daughter’s disappearance.
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Ashlee was taken into custody on a false imprisonment charge, alleging that she prevented a man from leaving her home. Officials did not provide additional details about the investigation.
According to reports from KTLA and ABC News, the man claimed that Ashlee became upset after sharing information she regretted and allegedly brandished a box cutter to stop him from leaving. He later told KSBY that he had reconnected with her while trying to help search for Melodee on Nov. 6.
Charging documents cited by KTLA indicate that the alleged incident involved elements of “planning, sophistication, or professionalism.”
Ashlee has pleaded not guilty and was released on her own recognizance. She must wear a GPS monitor while awaiting court proceedings, and her next appearance is scheduled for Nov. 19, per KSBY.
Melodee was reported missing roughly a month ago by a school official in Lompoc, Calif. Investigators soon learned that Ashlee had taken the girl on a multi-state road trip that reached Nebraska. When deputies later visited Ashlee’s home to inquire about the child, Melodee was not present.
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Authorities say Ashlee has not cooperated with investigators and has been unable to account for her daughter’s location. She has not been charged in connection to Melodee’s disappearance and is not considered a person of interest at this time.
The investigation has tracked sightings of the pair, including one on Oct. 7 at a car rental location in California and another on Oct. 9 near the Colorado–Utah border. Security footage suggests Melodee’s appearance may have been altered with a wig.
Melodee is described as approximately 4 feet 6 inches tall, weighing about 60 pounds, with brown curly hair and brown eyes.
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The FBI is assisting in the ongoing search. Anyone with information is urged to reach investigators through the following:
• Detectives Line: (805) 681-4150
• Anonymous Tip Line: (805) 681-4171
• Online Tips: <www.sbsheriff.org/home/anonymous-tip/>
