Lake Orion, Mich. – Marisa Calliea, 30, was arrested Monday in Evanston, Wyoming, after a multi‑state pursuit that began when she failed to return her 6‑year‑old son, Liam, to his father, Justin Malburg, as ordered by a court. The incident highlights the seriousness of custody disputes and the cooperation of law‑enforcement agencies across state lines.
Chronology of events
On Thursday, a Northville Flock camera captured a hit on Calliea’s GMC Terrain, confirming she was on the road after missing the scheduled drop‑off with Liam. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office issued a missing‑child alert and noted that Calliea already had a bench warrant for assault and fleeing.
Police in Wyoming received an anonymous tip that a woman and a child had entered a Walmart in Evanston. Officers approached the vehicle, but Calliea gave false names—Maria Peters for herself and Will Peters for her son—and fled, prompting a brief chase. The pursuit ended when officers safely stopped the SUV and took Calliea into custody. Liam was recovered unharmed and placed under the care of Wyoming Department of Family Services until his father’s flight arrived.
Family statements and community response
Justin Malburg posted on Facebook, thanking God, the anonymous tipster, and the Wyoming officers for bringing his son home safely. “He’s safe and sound,” he wrote, adding that the Department of Family Services is looking after Liam until they can travel back together.
According to the Cowboy StateDaily, a family member who owns the GMC Terrain said the custody dispute between Calliea and Malburg had been ongoing for months, with the father previously accusing Calliea of assault. That relative allegedly provided money for the trip and suggested she “take a vacation,” a claim that underscores the complex personal dynamics often present in family‑law cases.
Legal ramifications
Calliea is being held at the Uinta County Detention Center on six charges, including child abduction, providing false information to police, and fleeing law‑enforcement. A cash bond of $30,000 has been set. The Uinta County Sheriff’s Office lists her as pre‑sentenced, indicating that a court hearing will determine further penalties.
Authorities in Michigan have reiterated the importance of adhering to court‑ordered custody arrangements. Violations can lead to criminal charges, endanger children, and strain law‑enforcement resources across jurisdictions.
Public safety and parental‑rights perspective
This case serves as a reminder to parents and guardians that the legal system exists to protect children’s welfare and to ensure that parental‑rights are exercised responsibly. While families may experience intense disputes, the appropriate avenue is through the courts, not unilateral actions that jeopardize a child’s safety.
Community members in Metro Detroit have expressed relief that Liam was found safe and gratitude toward the officers who acted swiftly. The incident also illustrates the value of community vigilance—an anonymous tip was instrumental in locating the mother and child.
What’s next?
Calliea will face a court hearing in Wyoming to address the charges. Meanwhile, Malburg is expected to return to Michigan with his son once travel arrangements are finalized. Law‑enforcement agencies continue to monitor the case and encourage anyone with additional information to contact the appropriate authorities.
Original reporting: Warren | FOX 2 Detroit — read the source article.
