Police: Kidnapped Dothan teen spotted in East Texas | Crime

DOTHAN, AL (WSFA) - A 15-year-old girl abducted from a medical facility in Dothan has been reportedly seen in East Texas.  

Alabama's Dothan Police Department issued a release on Friday morning stating the girl and her accused abductors were spotted in East Texas.

Authorities have been searching for 15-year-old Ailene Lander since she was taken from DHR custody by a man identified as her step-father on Monday.  Investigators have reason to believe she may be in medical danger.

Lander was abducted from Southeast Alabama Medical Center during a scheduled medical appointment. Police believe her step-father, 36-year-old Charles "Dean" Partin, abducted the girl and is driving Lander along with her mother, Julie Bethke, and Lander's five siblings to Mexico.

The FBI became involved in the case on Tuesday. Information developed in this case shows the suspect and victim are very likely located in East Texas or Western Louisiana as of this afternoon's update. Border Patrol Agents are monitoring all U.S. Border Crossing locations for the family at this time.

Both Partin and Bethke have active warrants out for their arrest for their participation in the abduction. Authorities say Lander is considered to be in immediate danger. While police will not disclose Landers' privileged medical information, information relating to the investigation suggests Lander may be in medical danger. Sources that claim to be close to the family tell WSFA 12 News that Lander is pregnant.

Lander is described as a white female, 15 years of age last seen wearing a white see-through shirt and pink gym shorts. Authorities believe her hair color may have been altered to appear blonde.

Partin is described as a white male, 36 years of age last seen wearing a baseball cap, dark colored shirt and dark jeans.

The family was believed to have been traveling in a 1994 Mercury Villager van Alabama tag #34B26K3 or #38D18W2. However, the family may likely have discarded this vehicle and may be driving a blue, green, or blue/green Toyota minivan. Partin is listed as a truck driver with carpentry skills. He has previously been convicted of motor vehicle theft.

Information developed in this case shows the suspect is very likely seeking and may be entering charitable organizations for support.

If you see them or know anything about their whereabouts call 1-800-CALL-FBI, then choose option one. Again, a reward is now being offered in this case.

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