Her daughter disappeared in a mall restroom — two years later, while walking along a California beach, a stranger’s voice made her freeze

After the authorities investigated the case further, he was arrested and faced charges for unlawful custody.

Finding Their Way Back

Emily couldn’t believe her daughter, who disappeared from a mall restroom two years prior, was with her again. However, the much-anticipated reunion didn’t resemble the one this desperate mother had always imagined.

Lily was too young to remember she was taken away from her mother, and Emily needed to be careful not to scare her. She needed to regain her trust and her love.

During the first weeks of finding each other again, Emily’s visits of Lily were supervised by a social services worker who helped both of them navigate the emotional reunion.