On Friday, Melody Buzzard’s mother was arrested, more than three weeks after she reportedly fled with her missing 9-year-old daughter.
Ashley Buzzard, 40, was taken into custody in Santa Barbara under false pretenses, but authorities indicate she is not linked to her daughter’s case.
“Detectives became aware of a recent event where Ashley allegedly kept someone from leaving a location against their wishes, which is considered false imprisonment,” stated the Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office, referencing “recent incidents.”
Details about this unusual event remain scarce, as officials are concerned it could hinder the ongoing search for Melody.
While the girl was only reported missing last month, family members claim she hasn’t been seen for over a year, describing her mother as “very mentally unstable.”
The duo recently undertook a 1,500-mile journey that included a stop in Nebraska, but their destination remains unclear.
During this time, police described Buzzard as “uncooperative,” failing to provide any information about Melody’s whereabouts or well-being.
Security footage taken on October 7 shows the last known sighting of Melody, as she and her mother entered a rental car agency in Santa Barbara wearing wigs.
The following day, their vehicle, bearing New York license plates, was spotted, but when returned to California on October 10, it had its original plates restored.
However, Melody was not present during the vehicle return.
Buzzard is currently detained at the Northern Branch Jail with bail set at $100,000.
Authorities have not shared her photo due to publication standards not being met.
If anyone has information about Melody’s disappearance, they are encouraged to reach out to detectives at 805-681-4150. Anonymously, tips can be submitted online or by calling 805-681-4171.
