While many believe that a peaceful divorce is better than a toxic marriage, children often suffer most when bitterness takes over. This was true for Shannon Wilfong and Michael Chekevdia, whose relationship was already strained before they decided to marry upon learning they were expecting a child. Their hopes that marriage would mend things quickly faded after the birth of their son, Ricky, as arguments intensified—ultimately leading to divorce.
But the separation turned ugly. A custody battle over Ricky ensued, and although Shannon was granted primary custody, Michael was given visitation rights. When Shannon began denying those visits, Michael took her back to court. But on the day she was supposed to appear, Shannon and Ricky vanished without a trace.
Authorities launched a full-scale search and issued a warrant for Shannon’s arrest, suspecting she’d abducted Ricky. Adding fuel to the fire, Shannon’s mother, Diane Dobbs, accused Michael of abuse, plastering signs across her property to publicly vilify him.
Despite suspicions, early searches of Diane’s home turned up nothing. But two years later, acting on Michael’s belief that Diane was hiding something, police returned—and this time, they noticed a heavy dresser pressed against a wall. Behind it was a hidden door leading to a cramped, windowless room where Shannon and Ricky were found.
Shannon had been hiding in her mother’s home the entire time.
Both women were arrested—Shannon for kidnapping and Diane for aiding her. Shannon later claimed Ricky was happy living there, but neighbors said they never saw the boy outside. Police reported Ricky was visibly relieved once freed.
In court, Shannon accepted a plea deal: two years’ probation and a $1,500 fine. Meanwhile, Michael was cleared of all accusations and finally awarded custody of his son.
