Mother of Missing 9-Year-Old Melodee Buzzard Released Amid Questions Over Daughter’s Safety

Mother of Missing 9-Year-Old Melodee Buzzard Released Amid Questions Over Daughter’s Safety

The case of 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard, who has been missing for several weeks, has taken a dramatic turn. Authorities have released her mother, Ashlee Buzzard, after she allegedly imprisoned a court officer while revealing information about her daughter’s location.

An investigation began on October 14 when a school administrator informed the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office that Melodee had not attended school for an unusually long period. When questioned, Ashlee reportedly failed to provide a satisfactory explanation regarding her daughter’s whereabouts. Deputies have labeled Ashlee as uncooperative, stating that she has not confirmed Melodee’s location or provided any updates on her welfare.

The Incident That Escalated Tensions

Tyler Brewer, claiming to be a court officer, disclosed that during an unexpected encounter, Ashlee shared information she seemed to regret. In a dramatic turn, she allegedly brandished a box cutter and locked the doors of her home, preventing him from leaving. Brewer described Ashlee as looking distressed after divulging details about Melodee’s alleged location and who she was with.

Brewer stated to NewsNation that Ashlee’s disclosures included vital information regarding her daughter’s current circumstances. However, he expressed skepticism about the reliability of her statements.

Legal Ramifications and Family Concerns

On November 7, Ashlee Buzzard was formally charged with false imprisonment. Following her initial detention, a judge permitted her release, contingent on the condition that she wears an ankle monitor and is prohibited from contacting Brewer.

Lily Denes, Melodee’s paternal grandmother, voiced her frustrations with Ashlee’s release. During the court proceedings, she noted that Melodee’s name was not even mentioned, which left her feeling outraged. Denes emphasized her concerns about the lack of attention to Melodee’s welfare, stating, “They let her go, and they didn’t even [say] anything about the baby missing.”

Questions About Ashlee’s Mental Health

Further complicating the matter, Denes claimed that Ashlee has a history of mental health issues. She recalled, “She has a record of being in the loony hospital in Camarillo twice… I knew she was an odd lady; I knew it from the first time I met her. I knew something was wrong with her.” Her comments shed light on Ashlee’s background and potential challenges in caring for Melodee.

The Journey That Sparks Concern

Authorities revealed that Ashlee and Melodee left California on October 7, making their way to Nebraska in a rented Chevrolet Malibu. During their journey, the vehicle was observed with a California license plate before a switch to a New York plate was noted. Detectives believe the New York plate was a deliberate attempt to evade law enforcement.

Upon returning the car to the rental agency in California, the original license plate was reportedly reattached. Investigators suspect that the Malibu traveled through various states, including Arizona, Utah, and Nevada, around October 9.

Disappearance and Eyewitness Accounts

On October 9, Ashlee was seen in surveillance footage from a rental car facility in Lompoc, California, with Melodee, both wearing wigs. This video supported previously released still images showing both individuals in disguise. Authorities suspect Ashlee intentionally altered their appearances to avoid recognition during their travels, which raises further concerns about Melodee’s safety.

Melodee is described as being between 4 feet to 4 feet 6 inches tall, weighing between 60 and 100 pounds, with brown curly hair and brown eyes. Her appearance at this time remains a crucial factor in the search.

Community Appeal for Information

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with information regarding Melodee’s disappearance to contact them at (805) 681-4150. Community involvement is vital in this case, as every detail could potentially aid in locating the missing child.

As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on ensuring Melodee’s safety and well-being. Fox News Digital has reached out to Ashlee’s legal counsel for comments regarding the ongoing case.

Fox News Digital’s Greg Norman contributed to this report.