Endangered Missing Advisory Issued After 5-Year-Old Taken by Non-Custodial Father in Utah

UPDATE: Authorities in Utah canceled an Endangered Missing Advisory early Saturday after a 5-year-old boy who had been taken by his non-custodial father during a scheduled visitation was found safe. Police said the child, who was last seen Thursday evening and whose father had previously threatened to “take their son away” to prevent a scheduled adenoid surgery, was located at about 2:15 a.m. and reunited with his mother, who holds sole legal custody. Officials did not release details about where or how the boy was found, but the investigation into the father’s actions remains ongoing.

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Authorities in Utah have issued an Endangered Missing Advisory for a 5-year-old boy after police say he was taken by his non-custodial father and has not been returned following a scheduled visitation.

According to information released Friday, 5-year-old James Despain was picked up Thursday evening for a visitation period and was not returned to his mother, who holds sole physical and legal custody. The child was last seen with his biological father, 45-year-old Benjamin (Ben) Despain, who does not have custody rights.

Officials say Benjamin left the area driving a 2006 red Toyota Tacoma with Utah license plate XXXXXX, towing a white Forest River camping trailer with plate XXXXXX. The pickup occurred at the child’s mother’s residence at 5:30 p.m., and when she arrived later at a Murray location where James was to be dropped off, both father and son were missing.

In the days leading up to the disappearance, Benjamin had emailed James’ mother expressing intent to “take their son away” to prevent a scheduled medical procedure. James was set to undergo an adenoid removal surgery on Thursday, according to the mother.

Family members say the pair may be traveling with the trailer, possibly camping in Idaho or heading east to visit historic Latter-day Saint sites.

James is described as 5 years old, approximately 3 feet 11 inches tall, and weighing 47 pounds.

His mother, who has been publicly pleading for assistance, urged anyone who sees the truck, trailer, or the missing child to immediately contact law enforcement. She noted she may not be able to respond quickly to messages and asked that only police, the FBI, or her attorney contact her directly.

Authorities continue to search across the region and are asking the public for any sightings or tips as the investigation moves forward.

Anyone with information is urged to call local police immediately.