Dane Stephen Richman, 4, of Saratoga Springs, Utah, has been charged by a federal grand jury with international parental kidnapping. According to court documents, Richman fled to Mexico with his two small children without the knowledge of their mother or court approval.
Current Custody Status
Richman is currently held in federal custody in San Diego, California. He is expected to appear in federal court before being extradited to Utah for an initial appearance regarding the indictment.
Details of the Disappearance
The incident began on May 23, 2026, when Richman failed to return his children to their mother at a designated exchange location. This failure occurred following a scheduled visit mandated by a Utah County State Court Order, which had established temporary joint custody with specific bi-weekly exchange dates.
Following the missed exchange, officers conducted a wellness check at Richman's Saratoga Springs residence and found the home empty. Court documents stated that Richman had abandoned his home, quit his job, and emptied his bank accounts. During this time, Richman reportedly contacted the children's mother in Washington and falsely claimed they were camping in California, though he had actually taken the children across the border into Southern California.
Investigation and Capture Process
After a state warrant was issued for Richman's arrest, the FBI joined the search efforts. Working alongside Mexican authorities, investigators located Richman and the two children in San Felipe, Mexico. Mexican authorities arrested Richman and took custody of the children before transferring both the man and the children into the custody of U.S. authorities.
Reunification and Legal Outcome
The children have since been reunited with their mother, and a Utah State Court has granted her temporary sole custody. U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak expressed gratitude for the safe return of the children, attributing the outcome to the swift coordination between local, federal, and Mexican law enforcement partners.
Law Enforcement Agencies Involved
The investigation involved the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, the San Felipe Police Department in Mexico, and the Saratoga Springs Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Carlos Esqueda is prosecuting the case.
Department of Justice Initiatives
The prosecution is part of Project Safe Childhood and Operation Take Back America, both of which are nationwide initiatives managed by the Department of Justice.
