On July 15, 2023, Carlethia "Carlee" Russell reappeared in Hoover, Alabama, after going missing for two days. She told police she had been kidnapped. On July 19, the police reported "unable to verify" Carlee’s story. By July 24 Carlee recanted the whole affair and Hoover Police Chief Nicholas C. Derzis read a statement from her in a press conference.
That same evening, Carlee’s now ex-boyfriend Thomar Latrell Simmons took to Instagram to speak out about the incident. He had previously posted his support, but in light of this new evidence now condemns her actions.
“Carlee’s actions created hurt, confusion, and dishonesty,” Thomar’s Instagram post began. “I was made aware of the false narrative after coming to the defense of my ex Carly Russell. Myself and my family's nature was to react in love and genuine concern. We are disgusted from the outcome of this entire situation.”
This situation is far from over. Thomar says the investigation is still ongoing. It is nice to have a bit of closure with Carlee’s confession.
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Both Thomar and Carlee asked to be kept in the public’s prayers. Carlee apologized for her actions through her lawyer. “We ask for your prayers for Carlee as she addresses her issues and attempts to move forward, understanding that she made a mistake in this matter,” it stated in part. “Carlee, again, asks for your forgiveness and prayers.”
