HOOVER, ALABAMA: Carlee Russell's mother, Talitha, refused to say anything after her daughter reportedly confessed that she made up her kidnapping story. Russell had earlier said that she was abducted on July 13 but she somehow managed to flee her abductors and returned home on July 15.

However, on Monday, July 24, a statement via her attorney Emory Anthony was shared by Hoover police chief Nick Derzis, which mentioned as per the Daily Mail, “My client apologizes for her actions to the community, the volunteers who were searching for her, to the Hoover Police Department and other agencies, as well as to her friends and family," adding, “We ask for your prayers for Carlee as she addresses her issues and intends to move to understand that she made a mistake. Carlee again asks for your forgiveness and prayers."

Who is Talitha Russell?

Talitha had earlier expressed faith in her daughter and the story of her abduction. She is reportedly a realtor and entrepreneur. She had received her degree from Auburn University at Montgomery in Montgomery.

In a now-deleted Facebook post, Talitha had written, “We do want to ask for privacy at this time to allow us to just love on our daughter and each other with our close family and friends. Also, please consider the fact we have not slept for 3 nights and we are mentally and physically exhausted.”

“Just as we made a commitment to not entertain negative thoughts during the time our daughter was missing, we surely will not entertain negative thoughts/statements, unvalidated opinions, or sheer ignorance at such a joyous time. We pray that those that doubt God's power, miracles, and the power of faith will be encouraged to draw closer to Him and learn the power of positive affirmations and unwavering faith,” Talitha added.

Talitha slammed people by saying, “I just didn't know people could be so evil,” after many began to accuse Russell of making up her story.

‘This is so unfortunate’

Now that the truth has come out, Talitha has reportedly decided to stay mum. The New York Times cited her saying, “Now is not a good time,” when she was called. In response to the Russell's revelation, many people took to social media to slam the 25-year-old. One user said, “She going to Hell.”

Another user wrote, “I just hope she realizes the damage she has caused for POC who are legitimately missing. She received what most POC don't, massive media attention. She has done a lot of damage. This is so unfortunate.” A third one remarked, “Lock her up!” “Ridiculous. She should be liable for the cost of the effort that went toward her search,” a fourth user added.

Derzis expressed his views on the whole situation. The police chief stated, “The sad thing is there were so many people involved and took this thing very, very seriously and, again, we wanted the focus to be to bring her home and she got home. We're very excited about that. It is what it is. We know that it was a hoax.”