Rep. Weaver (R-Briarfield) said Hoover woman Carly Russell faked her disappearance last year, leading to a massive manhunt that cost taxpayers significant money and hundreds of hours of law enforcement officers' valuable time. In response, he said this bill was necessary.
“Like many others, I was furious when it turned out that this whole incident was an elaborate hoax, costing thousands of taxpayer dollars and… “Hundreds of hours of human resources within the local, state and federal law enforcement communities were expended,” Weaver said.
RELATED: Authorities seek tougher penalties after Carly Russell hoax
“Perhaps the biggest victims of Ms. Russell's hoax are the dozens of volunteers who selflessly dedicated their time to searching for her in record-breaking heat.” My anger grew even more when she was only charged with a local misdemeanor violation because no felonies were on the books.”
Weaver said those convicted could face prison terms ranging from one year and one day to 10 years.
“I think it's so important because it's so important to the public. The public was completely outraged by what happened,” she said. “It's of interest to law enforcement as well as the general public.”
“We truly believe this is something that can be moved quickly in this Congress.”
RELATED: Police: Carly Russell searches for bus tickets 'taken away' before disappearance
Hoover Police Chief Nick Dargis led the search for Russell and worked with Weaver on the new law.
He revealed the time and effort Hoover police spent searching for Russell.
“Our department worked over 424 hours of overtime, and 30% of our employees were at one point dedicated to this event,” Delgis said. “Everyone involved in the investigation worked on this case, which caused the entire bureau to delay other investigations.”
The bill would also require compensation to be paid if an emergency response is required due to false reporting.
A similar bill is expected to be introduced in the House next week.
Austin Shipley is a staff writer at Yellowhammer News.
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