Utah Brothers Believed Abducted by Father

Authorities in Utah are searching for two brothers, aged 1 and 10 months, who are believed to have been taken to Mexico by their father. This man, 46-year-old Dane Stephen Richman, is reportedly struggling with severe depression and has a complicated history that raises concerns about the safety of his children.

The Saratoga Springs Police Department has launched an investigation into Richman’s actions. He recently quit his job, faced financial challenges, and was embroiled in a custody dispute with the boys’ mother, which authorities speculate may have led him to plan the abduction over several weeks.

An Amber Alert was issued over the weekend after the boys were identified as being in immediate danger. They had been scheduled for visitation with their father when he allegedly picked them up from their mother in Washington state on May 16.

The police report states, “The suspect has suffered from severe depression, sold property, faced financial stress, and abandoned his home, raising concerns for the safety and welfare of his children.” Richman has since been charged with two counts of interference with custody, a third-degree felony.

When police visited Richman’s residence, it appeared unoccupied, adding to their concerns about the situation. Investigators noted that his financial struggles seemed to point toward a premeditated plan to take the children. Moreover, surveillance footage captured Richman in Southern California, not far from the southern border, where authorities believe he may have crossed into Mexico.

A warrant for his arrest was issued on Sunday, and police are working to disseminate the Amber Alert across Mexico. Anyone with information regarding Richman’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Utah County Sheriff’s Office or call 911.