Iowa Girl Kidnapped by Mother, Police Clueless on Location

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• Avery Lydia Doherty, aged 5, was allegedly kidnapped by her mother, Esther Bender, in October 2023.
• Despite extensive efforts, police have been unable to locate Avery, admitting they have no idea of her whereabouts.
• The FBI has recently joined the search, and Avery has been added to the national database for missing children.

In a concerning development from Iowa, five-year-old Avery Lydia Doherty remains missing three months after her alleged abduction.

The Story County Sheriff's Office first received the report of her disappearance in October 2023. It's believed that Avery was taken by her non-custodial mother, Esther Bender. The lack of a vehicle description at the time of her disappearance precluded the issuance of an Amber Alert.

The case is complicated by a custody battle between Avery's parents. Her father, Brandon Doherty, was seeking visitation rights, as revealed in court documents. However, it's unclear who had custody of Avery during this period. The prolonged absence of any leads or news prompted the Federal Bureau of Investigation to join the search efforts recently.

Brandon Doherty expressed his distress and hope for Avery's safe return. He mentioned spending time in his daughter's room, praying, and hoping for her safety. Ames Police Public Information Officer Sergent Amber Christian conveyed the challenges faced by law enforcement, stating they have no leads on the whereabouts of Avery and her mother. The police's primary wish is for Esther Bender to confirm Avery's well-being. The ongoing investigation continues, with Avery now listed in the national database for missing children.

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