Local lawyer quoted for story on Child abduction out of Michigan

Detroit newspaper reporting on a Michigan child abduction speaks with Diana Skaggs for comment an analysis. 

Dad, abducted son reunite
Boy, 6, allegedly taken by mom, settles in at home
Charles E. Ramirez / The Detroit News

EASTPOINTE -- Jeffrey Edwards feels like he's lived through a nightmare. And the worst part is, he says, is he doesn't know if it's over.

Four months ago, Edwards' 6-year-old son was taken from him by his ex-wife, Muingo Muthui, who did not have custody of the boy, according to police. Authorities captured the 29-year-old woman on Nov. 1 in North Carolina and reunited Edwards with his son, Pierce.

"It would be nice to be able to wake up and have the nightmare be over," said the 35-year-old single father from Eastpointe. "I don't think it'll ever happen. I'm worried if (Muthui) gets a second crack at this, he may never be found."  * * *

Diana Skaggs, a principal in the law firm of Diana L. Skaggs and Associates, said Edwards is fortunate he got his son back. Based in Louisville, Ky., Skaggs specializes in family law and the parental abduction of children.

She said the effects can be lasting.

"Kids react differently to it, but this is certainly something that impacts them," she said.

"Abductions uproot all of the stability and security that's so important to their development."