Skip to content

UPDATE: Vancouver police say mother who allegedly abducted son may have changed his appearance

Boy, 9, may have been taken south of the border
10960935_web1_180312-BPD-M-emerson-2
Emerson Cusworth may have been abducted by his mother. (Vancouver Police handout)

Vancouver police are still on the hunt for a young boy who they believe has been abducted by his mother.

Shawana Chaudhary is believed to have taken her nine-year-old son, Emerson Cusworth, against a court-imposed custody order.

Emerson’s father was supposed to have picked up his son on Friday, but called police when the child wasn’t at the school.

Sgt. Jason Robillard said officers are expanding their search perimeter and talking with other Metro Vancouver police detachments as well as agencies in Washington State.

Police are concerned Chaudbury may have been planning for an extended absence prior to her son’s disappearance.

Emerson weights about 55 lbs. and appears South Asian, with short black hair and dark eyes. Police say Chaudhary may have died his hair and otherwise altered his appearance.

Chaudhary is 5’8”, weighs about 106 lbs. and appears South Asian with long dark hair and dark eyes. She may be using her old name of Virjinia Leeman, or Leman.

The pair may also be travelling with Chaudhary’s six-year-old daughter and one or two dogs.

Police say there are no signs that either child is in imminent danger.

Anyone with information about their whereabouts, recent activities, or travel plans should call 9-1-1 or investigators at 604-717-0601. To remain anonymous, contact CrimeStopppers at 1-800-222-8477.