Missing British Boy Alex Batty Found in France After Six Years
According to a February 2019 police statement, Alex Batty, who hadn't been seen since he was eleven, was taken on vacation to Spain in 2017 by his mother, who reportedly didn't have legal custody of him, and his grandfather.
Batty was found in France, near Toulouse, in the Département Haute-Garonne, as reported by CNN's French affiliate BFMTV. His family identified him, and according to the Toulouse prosecutor, he would be returning to the UK soon.
In a conversation with The Sun, his grandmother Susan Caruana, who is his legal guardian, revealed she had spoken with Alex. "I'm so happy. I've spoken to him, and he's doing well," she said. "He's currently working with the French authorities." It's shocking, she added, because he didn't want his mother or grandfather to face imprisonment.
Greater Manchester Police reportedly reached out to French authorities due to alleged sightings of Alex Batty, who went missing in 2017. Oldham police are in contact with their French counterparts to confirm the authenticity of these reports.
A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson stated, "This is a complex and long-term investigation requiring further investigations and appropriate protective measures."
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International cooperation between British and French authorities is crucial in ensuring Alex Batty's swift and safe return to the UK. Concerns about his well-being and safety remain a priority, and resolving this case prompts reflection on the importance of cross-border collaboration.
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The conclusion of the investigation into Alex Batty's disappearance by Greater Manchester Police came after it was determined that there was no realistic chance of criminal prosecution. The family's unwillingness to support prosecution also played a role in this decision.
- Investigation Conclusion: Greater Manchester Police ended the investigation into Alex Batty's disappearance due to a lack of a viable criminal prosecution opportunity and the family's opposition to the prosecution.
- Family's Position: The family, including Alex, opposed criminal charges against his mother and grandfather, and this influenced the decision to halt the investigation.
- Police Statement: Manchester Detective Superintendent Matt Walker emphasized that the investigation focused on Alex's safety and well-being and included consultations with various partners, such as a dedicated complex case CPS lawyer and the National Crime Agency.
- Alex's Current Situation: Alex is now living with his grandmother, Susan Caruana, in Oldham, Greater Manchester, and has been described as safe and well-adjusted, reintegrated into his life with loved ones.
