Will You Help Bring This Family Back Together? Heartfelt Plea for Missing Dad and Kids

In a heart-wrenching plea, the family of Tom Phillips, a New Zealand man who has been on the run with his three children for four years, has urged him to return home. Phillips took his children—Ember, 9, Maverick, 10, and Jayda, 12—following a custody dispute. His mother and sister have spoken out publicly for the first time, expressing their love and concern for both Tom and the children as police continue to search for them.

Last updated: 25 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Tom Phillips has been a fugitive for four years with his three children after a custody battle.
• His family, including mother Julia and sister Rozzi, recently made emotional pleas for him to return.
• Police have offered a £37,000 reward for information leading to their safe return.
• The children were last spotted in February 2023, with concerns for their wellbeing, particularly for Ember, who has asthma.
• Tom Phillips faces multiple charges, including armed robbery and child endangerment.

The Background of the Case

The saga began four years ago when Tom Phillips lost custody of his children to their mother, Catherine. Following the court's decision, Tom took the children from their home in New Zealand, initiating a desperate search by authorities and Catherine’s emotional pleas to the public. The case has drawn significant attention, not only for the circumstances surrounding the disappearance but also for the ongoing concerns for the children’s safety and wellbeing.

A Mother's Heartfelt Plea

Catherine Phillips has consistently voiced her fears regarding her children's situation. In various statements, she expressed worry about their safety and health, especially for her youngest child, Ember, who requires medical care for asthma. Catherine's emotional video messages have resonated with many, highlighting her belief that the children are in danger and deserve better than the life they are currently living.

Family’s Public Appeal

Recently, Tom's family members, Julia and Rozzi, made public appeals, breaking their silence after years. In a poignant letter addressed to Tom, Julia wrote, “I feel really sad that you thought you had to do this. Not considering how much we love you and can support you.” Rozzi expressed her hope daily that the family would reunite, emphasising the love and support they are ready to provide.

The Search for Tom and the Children

Authorities believe that Tom Phillips and his children have been living off-grid in the rural Waikato region of New Zealand. The police have been actively searching for the family, offering a substantial reward for any information that could lead to their safe return. As of now, Tom is reportedly receiving assistance from individuals who aid him in evading capture.

Recent Sightings and Concerns

The last confirmed sighting of Tom and the children was in February 2023 near State Highway 4, south of Te Kūiti. In a disturbing turn of events, Tom Phillips has also been implicated in additional criminal activities, including an alleged armed robbery of a bank in Te Kūiti in September 2023. This has intensified the urgency of the police investigation and raised further concerns for the children’s safety.

Public Response and Media Coverage

The case has garnered widespread media coverage, capturing public attention due to its emotional nature and the plight of the children. Grainy footage surfaced last year showing the children walking with Tom in camouflage gear, raising questions about their living conditions and wellbeing. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the children are being kept hidden, and their situation remains precarious.

Community Involvement and Police Efforts

Police have sought assistance from the community, urging anyone with information to come forward. Detective Inspector Andrew Saunders stated that immunity against prosecution would be considered for anyone who has committed an offence in assisting Tom Phillips, provided they offer information that leads to the children's safe return. This initiative aims to encourage individuals who may know Tom's whereabouts to step forward without fear of legal repercussions.

The Legal Ramifications for Tom Phillips

Tom Phillips faces serious legal consequences, including charges related to child endangerment and robbery. He failed to appear in court in January 2022 for a charge involving the misuse of police resources. As the authorities continue to investigate, the legal pressures on Tom mount, complicating an already dire situation for him and his children.

Emotional Toll on the Family

The emotional toll on both Tom's immediate family and the children's mother is profound. Catherine has repeatedly underscored the innocence of her children, stating, “They do not deserve the life that is being provided to them right now.” This sentiment resonates deeply with many, as the public’s empathy grows for the family caught in this unfortunate predicament.

What Happens Next?

As the search continues, the hope remains that Tom Phillips will recognise the love and support awaiting him and his children. The family’s public appeals signal a desire for reunification, and the police efforts highlight the urgency of ensuring the children's safety. The situation remains fluid, with updates expected as the investigation progresses. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information that could aid in their safe return.

FAQs

What led Tom Phillips to become a fugitive with his children?

Tom Phillips became a fugitive after losing a custody battle with his former partner, Catherine. Following this loss, he took his three children from their home, prompting a police investigation and search.

What are the current concerns for the children’s wellbeing?

Concerns for the children's wellbeing include their safety and health, especially for Ember, who requires asthma medication. Their living conditions in the wilderness are also worrying for both the police and their family.

What legal issues is Tom Phillips facing?

Tom Phillips faces multiple legal charges, including child endangerment and an alleged armed robbery of a bank in Te Kūiti. He also failed to appear in a previous court case related to police resource misuse.

What is the police offering for information on Tom and the children?

The police have offered a £37,000 reward for anyone who provides information leading to the location and safe return of Tom Phillips and his children.

How has the public responded to this case?

The public response has been largely sympathetic, with many expressing concern for the children’s safety. The emotional appeals from the family have also resonated widely, resulting in increased media attention and community involvement in the search efforts.

In light of the ongoing search for Tom Phillips and his children, the hope remains that a resolution can be reached. As the community rallies for their safe return, the situation underscores the importance of family support and the need for professional intervention in such complex cases. #TomPhillips #ChildSafety #FamilySupport