7-year-old boy kidnapped by mother, Gwinnett County police say

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Michelle Marks and Royal Marks (Gwinnett County Police Department)

SNELLVILLE, Ga. - Police in Gwinnett County are searching for a 7-year-old who investigators say was taken by his mother during a visit in Snellville. 

According to the Gwinnett County Police Department, Michelle Marks came to Georgia to visit her 7-year-old son, Royal Marks. During the visit, family members reportedly heard Michelle make threats to harm herself if she were to completely lose custody of Royal. These alleged threats occurred after conversations about an upcoming custody hearing.

According to police, Michelle allegedly took Royal in the middle of the night. Investigators said that Michelle had previously lost custody of Royal in Oklahoma last year due to child neglect, and child welfare authorities placed the boy in his father’s custody in Georgia.

Kidnapping warrants have been issued for Michelle, who also has multiple outstanding warrants in Oklahoma. Authorities said she has used several aliases, including Michelle Jones, Michelle Legacy, and Michelle Young. She is described as being 5 feet 3 inches tall, weighing about 140 pounds.

Royal is approximately 4 feet 11 inches tall, weighs 90 pounds, and was last seen wearing a red long-sleeve thermal shirt with white lettering and jogging pants.

Investigators are working with federal authorities to locate Michelle and Royal. Police believe Michelle may attempt to leave the state. While she does not own a vehicle, officials said she may be using ride-share services.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Gwinnett County Police detectives at 770-513-5300. Tipsters can remain anonymous by contacting Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or visiting www.stopcrimeATL.com. A cash reward is available for information leading to an arrest and indictment in the case.