On June 14, 12-year-old Charlie Bothuell V went missing. The Detroit boy was reported missing by his step-mother, who called Charlie’s father, Charlie Bothuell IV, while he was at work. Police had searched Charlie’s home last week, including bringing cadaver dogs. Many officials presumed the young man was dead. Charlie’s father appeared on national networks, sharing his story about his missing son, begging for anyone who had seen him to contact authorities. The case spread quickly, until Wednesday when a stunning discovery was made. James Craig, Detroit Police Chief, announced Charlie was found. In the most unusual place.
Charlie was discovered in his parents’ basement and now many are wondering who is to blame?
Police stated they searched the home thoroughly last week, indicating a possibility Charlie was moved. Police discovered the boy behind a large container in the basement, indicating a makeshift barricade Charlie could possibly had not done alone. Officials stated when Charlie was found, he was quiet but excited to see officers and stated he was hungry. Food and bedding materials were found nearby.
The police look to Charlie’s father and step-mother, as the boy will now undergo a medical evaluation. Craig stated the elder Charlie did submit to a polygraph test regarding his son on Wednesday, but Charlie’s step-mother, who has not spoken publicly, declined to take the test.
Charlie’s father broke down into tears during the announcement of his son’s location, and stated he thought his son was dead. He also stated the police looked in his home, including the FBI and for anyone to “imply that I knew my son was in the basement is absurd.”
Perhaps the medical evaluation Charlie will undergo, will release information if the young boy intentionally left the home, came back and hid in the basement; or if someone else is to blame for the disappearance and reappearance of the Detroit boy in his own home.
