LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) - After more than 40 years, a missing person and custodial-kidnapping investigation has been solved, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office announced on Dec. 8, 2025.

Police said the case began in 1983 when Michelle Marie Newton disappeared after her mother, Debra Leigh Curry Newton, claimed to be relocating to Georgia to begin a new job and prepare a new home for the family.

Over a year later, after a final phone call between Debra Newton and her husband, Joseph Newton, both Michelle and Debra Newton vanished, according to police. Debra Newton was then indicted for custodial interference, and an FBI unlawful flight to avoid prosecution warrant was issued. Debra Newton was also listed on the FBI’s Top 8 Most Wanted Parental-Kidnapping Fugitives.

The sheriff’s offic

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