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Opelousas Today
By the People, for the People
Opelousas Police Search for Missing Teen
Authorities issue arrest warrant for mother in child custody case
Apr. 15, 2026 at 6:24pm
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The search for a missing Louisiana teen exposes the harsh realities of custody disputes and the critical role the public plays in locating vulnerable children.Opelousas TodayThe Opelousas Police Department is searching for a missing 13-year-old girl, Mariah Tieuel, who was last seen on April 7th with her mother, Heather Leeann Todd. An arrest warrant has been issued for Todd on charges of Interference with the Custody of a Child, as she allegedly left with the child after authorities were set to take the juvenile into custody.
Why it matters
This case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in locating missing juveniles, especially when a parent is involved in the disappearance. Child custody disputes can often lead to dangerous situations, and the police are urging the public to come forward with any information that could help safely locate the missing teen.
The details
According to the Opelousas Police Department, Mariah Tieuel was last seen on April 7th in the Opelousas area. Authorities say she is believed to be with her mother, Heather Leeann Todd. An arrest warrant has been issued for Todd on charges of Interference with the Custody of a Child, a felony offense. Police say that during the incident, they were advised the juvenile was to be taken into custody by child welfare services, but Todd allegedly left the location with the child and has not been located since. Authorities are searching for a 2006 Toyota RAV 4, white in color, with the license plate 553HXB, which may be the vehicle Todd is using.
- Mariah Tieuel was last seen on April 7, 2026 in the Opelousas area.
- An arrest warrant for Heather Leeann Todd was issued in connection with the incident.
The players
Mariah Tieuel
A 13-year-old girl who has been reported missing by the Opelousas Police Department.
Heather Leeann Todd
The mother of Mariah Tieuel, who is wanted by police on charges of Interference with the Custody of a Child.
Opelousas Police Department
The law enforcement agency leading the search for the missing teen and the investigation into the custody case.
What’s next
The Opelousas Police Department is urging anyone with information on the whereabouts of Mariah Tieuel or Heather Leeann Todd to contact them or St. Landry Crime Stoppers. Authorities are continuing their efforts to safely locate the missing juvenile.
The takeaway
This case underscores the importance of cooperation between law enforcement, child welfare services, and the public in resolving missing persons cases, especially those involving custody disputes. The police are appealing to the community for any information that could help bring the missing teen home safely.
