Russell County Sheriff
On April 18th, 2026, at approximately 4:09 P.M. Russell County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to the 100 block of Kansas AVE in Lucas Kansas for a report of two missing juveniles. Shortly after the initial call, a 911 call was received from one of the missing juveniles around the 198th and Fairview Road area. Russell County Deputies, Russell County EMS, and Lucas Fire Department responded to the area and located the missing juveniles. The juveniles were evaluated by EMS and reunited with family.
Russell County Deputies interviewed the juveniles and were provided information that they were kidnapped from the Lucas Kansas area by a person dressed in a black hoodie, black pants, and driving a white panel van, with no windows, and no writing on the sides. Additional information was provided by the juveniles that when the van stopped, they were able to open the door and escape.
The Russell County Sheriff’s Office takes each report seriously and will use every resource available to conduct thorough investigations with the goal of gathering facts, keeping the victims, and public safety as the top priority.
Deputies have been working diligently, collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses. After an extensive investigation and search for the vehicle, the investigation revealed circumstances that were not consistent. Upon further interviews, the juveniles age 9 and 11 admitted the report was fabricated.
The Sheriff’s Office would like to emphasize that false reporting of any crime has consequences, and the Sheriff’s Office takes false reporting seriously. The facts of this case will be collected and submitted to the Russell County Attorney for further review for recommended charges.
The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the public for their assistance in this case. The Sheriff’s Office would also like to thank the many Law Enforcement Agencies and their efforts in tracking down leads.
The Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the public that if you see something, say something. Never be afraid to report illegal activity. But, under no circumstances, should anyone ever report a false crime.