CCTV footage released by police shows 31-year-old Cheryl Wilkins walking with her two young sons along a street in Canvey Island before boarding a train later that morning. The images, captured on June 28, 2017, have become central to a public appeal aimed at locating the family and ensuring the children’s wellbeing.

The boys, four-year-old Dylan Wilkins-Barnes and two-year-old Leo Wilkins, were last officially seen at around 9 a.m. on Furtherwick Road in Canvey, Essex. Investigators believe they later traveled by train from Benfleet to Barking, with additional sightings placing them in London and Hertfordshire.

Police have emphasized that while Cheryl and the children’s father are their biological parents, they are not the children’s legal guardians. The situation has therefore been treated as a serious welfare matter, prompting coordinated efforts across multiple counties.

Superintendent Nick Morris of Essex Police publicly urged Cheryl to come forward. He stated that officers are primarily concerned with confirming that both children are safe and receiving appropriate care.

Authorities have stressed there is no indication that the boys have been harmed. However, they remain concerned that the children have been away from their established home environment and daily routines for several days.

The CCTV images show Cheryl dressed in a long brown coat, light-blue jeans, and white trainers. She appears calm in the footage, walking alongside Dylan and Leo as they move through residential streets and railway stations.

Dylan was last seen wearing a grey coat and grey jogging bottoms. Leo was described as wearing a blue coat and black jogging bottoms, with shoulder-length brown hair.

Separate CCTV footage shows the children’s father, Damien Barnes, 31, at St Albans railway station. Police believe he may also be with the family as they move between locations.

Both parents are known to have links to St Albans and South Ockendon. Investigators have suggested they may be staying in temporary accommodations such as hotels, bed-and-breakfast establishments, caravans, or camping sites in Hertfordshire.

The case has drawn significant public attention, in part because of the ages of the children involved. At four and two years old, Dylan and Leo are considered particularly vulnerable due to their young age and dependence on adults for daily care.

Officers have carefully framed their appeal around the children’s welfare. They have consistently asked the public to focus on helping authorities confirm that the boys are safe, rather than speculating about the family’s private circumstances.

Superintendent Morris stated, “Our priority is Leo and Dylan’s welfare first and foremost. They have been away from home and their friends and must be unsure of what is happening.”

He added that police are prepared to listen and offer support if Cheryl makes contact. The tone of the appeal has been measured, emphasizing reassurance rather than confrontation.

Cheryl has reportedly not been in contact with her wider family since June 28. This absence of communication has heightened concern among relatives and authorities alike.

Police have asked anyone who may have seen the family to contact Essex Police on 101, quoting reference 226 of June 28. Officers have also worked closely with transport authorities to trace movements captured on rail networks.

Railway CCTV has become a critical component of the investigation. Images from Barking station in East London show Cheryl with the children moving through the concourse area.

The timing of the sightings has helped investigators establish a partial timeline of the family’s movements. However, gaps remain regarding their subsequent location after leaving the railway system.

Cases involving disputes over guardianship can be complex. Legal guardianship differs from biological parenthood, and court orders may designate alternative caregivers responsible for children’s day-to-day welfare.

Police have not released detailed information about the underlying guardianship arrangement. They have instead focused on locating the children and verifying their wellbeing as quickly as possible.

In situations involving young children, authorities often work alongside social services to assess potential risks. The goal is to ensure children have stable housing, access to food, healthcare, and emotional support.

The public release of CCTV footage serves several purposes. It confirms that the family was together on the day they were last seen and invites witnesses to come forward with additional information.

Community response has been mixed, with many expressing concern for the boys. Others have cautioned against making assumptions about Cheryl’s intentions without full knowledge of the legal background.

Police have reiterated that there is no confirmed evidence of harm. Nonetheless, the lack of contact and the children’s removal from their established guardians has made it necessary to pursue the matter urgently.

Hertfordshire has become a particular focus due to the parents’ known connections in the area. Officers believe the family may be attempting to remain mobile while relying on short-term lodging options.

Temporary accommodations can make it difficult to trace individuals. Hotels, guesthouses, and caravan parks often host transient visitors who stay for limited periods.

Investigators have circulated descriptions of all four individuals. Cheryl is described as 5 feet 2 inches tall, slim, with short brown hair, while Damien is 5 feet 9 inches tall, slim, with black hair.

Such details are intended to assist members of the public who may recognize the family. Police have encouraged anyone with even minor information to report it.

At the heart of the case are two very young children who may not fully understand why they are traveling or why familiar routines have changed. Stability is especially important during early childhood development.

Child welfare specialists note that sudden changes in environment can create confusion for toddlers and preschool-aged children. Familiar surroundings, caregivers, and daily schedules provide a sense of security.

Authorities have avoided releasing sensitive personal information that could compromise the children’s privacy. Instead, they have balanced transparency with discretion.

Public appeals often rely on cooperation from transportation hubs, accommodation providers, and community members. Even small details, such as a remembered conversation or sighting, can help narrow the search.

As days pass, the urgency of confirming the boys’ safety increases. While police have not suggested imminent danger, prolonged absence from known guardians heightens official concern.

The case also highlights the legal distinction between custody and guardianship. In some circumstances, courts assign guardianship to individuals other than biological parents if deemed in the child’s best interests.

Such arrangements can become emotionally charged. However, police have refrained from discussing court proceedings or family disputes in detail.

The focus remains practical: locating Cheryl and the boys, verifying their condition, and resolving the situation through appropriate legal channels. Officers have emphasized that they are seeking dialogue, not escalation.

Community members in Canvey Island and surrounding areas have shared the CCTV images widely. Social media has amplified the appeal beyond Essex into neighboring counties.

Despite this, investigators caution against spreading rumors. Official updates are expected to come directly from Essex Police to ensure accuracy.

The railway journey from Benfleet to Barking was one of the last confirmed movements. Beyond that point, the family’s path becomes less certain.

Transport authorities continue to review additional footage. Coordinated efforts between counties are standard in cases where travel across regions is suspected.

The presence of the children’s father in St Albans has added another geographic dimension to the investigation. Officers believe the family may have regrouped after initial sightings.

Law enforcement agencies often work quietly behind the scenes in such cases. Checks of accommodation records, financial transactions, and witness statements are typical investigative steps.

While public attention can be intense, police have maintained a measured tone. Their statements consistently return to one central message: the safety of Dylan and Leo.

For relatives and friends, the days since June 28 have likely been filled with uncertainty. The absence of contact can be deeply distressing, particularly when young children are involved.

Authorities continue to ask Cheryl to contact them directly. They have indicated that making contact would allow them to assess the situation and potentially offer support.

In many cases, voluntary communication can resolve uncertainty more quickly than prolonged searches. Police have signaled openness to dialogue.

The use of CCTV in modern investigations underscores how public spaces are monitored. Railway stations and main streets often provide visual evidence that can assist in tracking movements.

Yet even with technology, locating individuals who are determined to remain private can be challenging. Investigations frequently depend on cooperation and community awareness.

As the appeal continues, police remain hopeful that information will surface. Each confirmed sighting narrows the window of uncertainty.

For now, the images of Cheryl walking with her two sons remain central to the story. They capture a moment in time before the situation escalated into a multi-county welfare inquiry.

Authorities have asked anyone with information to contact Essex Police on 101, quoting reference 226 of June 28. They stress that even seemingly small observations may be valuable.

The case serves as a reminder of how quickly family circumstances can become public matters when legal guardianship is involved. It also reflects the delicate balance between parental rights and court-appointed responsibilities.

Above all, investigators continue to emphasize that their primary objective is simple and clear. They want confirmation that Dylan and Leo are safe, cared for, and protected while the legal issues surrounding their guardianship are addressed through proper channels.

Texas Toddler Found Wandering Alone in Woods Leads to Arrests of Mother and Grandmother.4536

Authorities in Texas launched an extensive child welfare investigation after a two-year-old girl was discovered wandering alone through a wooded area during the early morning hours, prompting urgent concerns about supervision, living conditions, and the safety of other children connected to the household.

The case emerged in Bexar County after a local resident reviewed overnight footage from a motion-activated game camera positioned on private property near a wooded area.

The footage, recorded at approximately 3 a.m. on Friday, December 5, showed a very young child moving slowly through brush and uneven terrain with no adult visible nearby.

The toddler appeared barefoot and was wearing only a lightweight dress, offering little protection from the environment.

At that hour, temperatures in the area were reported to be in the low 40s, conditions that can pose serious health risks to a child of such a young age.

The property owner, disturbed by the unexpected and concerning sight, waited until daylight before contacting the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office to report what he had seen.

Deputies treated the call with urgency, recognizing the potential danger faced by a toddler alone outdoors.

By around 6 a.m., officers were actively attempting to identify the child and locate her caregivers.

Investigators later noted that exposure to cold temperatures, rough ground, and the possibility of wildlife encounters made the situation particularly concerning.

Law enforcement began reviewing the footage frame by frame to estimate how long the child may have been outside.

Deputies also canvassed nearby areas to ensure the child was no longer at risk.

Shortly after the investigation began, authorities received a missing child report from the girl’s mother, Haley Peoples.

The report was made at approximately 7:20 a.m., more than four hours after the child was first seen on camera.

According to deputies, the timing of the call immediately raised questions.

Investigators allege that Peoples had already located her daughter outside earlier that morning.

Authorities further allege that despite finding the child wandering alone, Peoples did not contact law enforcement or seek assistance.

When deputies arrived at the family’s residence, they reported conditions that intensified concerns about the child’s welfare.

Officers described the home as heavily cluttered, with garbage and dirty laundry piled throughout multiple rooms.

Spoiled food was reportedly present in areas accessible to children.

Investigators also noted rodent droppings in parts of the residence.

A strong odor of urine was reported throughout the home, according to law enforcement statements.

The overall condition of the residence was described as unsanitary.

The toddler was located at the home when deputies arrived.

Officers observed that the child appeared unclean and soiled.

Given the circumstances of her earlier exposure outdoors, deputies offered medical assistance to ensure the child had not suffered harm.

Authorities also requested that the child be cleaned and provided with fresh clothing.

Deputies allege that Peoples refused both medical attention and a change of clothes for her daughter.

Investigators viewed this refusal as a serious concern in light of the events earlier that morning.

Based on the totality of the circumstances, deputies placed Peoples under arrest at the scene.

She was charged with abandoning or endangering a child in imminent danger.

Law enforcement officials stated that the charge reflects the level of risk the child was exposed to rather than focusing on a single action.

The toddler was placed under protective supervision to ensure her immediate safety.

Child welfare professionals were contacted to assist with the situation.

As deputies continued processing the scene, the investigation took another turn.

The child’s grandmother, Rebecca Kelly, arrived at the residence shortly after the mother’s arrest.

Officers informed Kelly that they needed to speak with her as part of the ongoing investigation.

According to authorities, Kelly initially acknowledged the request.

Investigators allege that she then left the property without permission.

Deputies began attempting to locate her while continuing their work at the residence.

A short time later, law enforcement received information that Kelly had gone to a nearby elementary school.

Investigators allege that she entered the school just before 9 a.m.

Police say Kelly attempted to remove the toddler’s siblings from their classrooms.

School staff intervened immediately and contacted authorities.

According to law enforcement statements, Kelly told school personnel that Child Protective Services was on the way.

She also allegedly instructed the children not to discuss the events of the morning.

Investigators reported that Kelly described the situation as a private family matter.

Law enforcement officials viewed these actions as an attempt to interfere with an active child abuse and neglect investigation.

Deputies responded to the school and stopped Kelly before she was able to leave with the children.

She was detained at the scene and later taken into custody for questioning.

Authorities stated that Kelly now faces charges related to interference with child custody and an official investigation.

Law enforcement emphasized that attempting to remove children during an active inquiry can place them at additional risk.

Throughout the morning, deputies coordinated closely with child welfare professionals.

Officials stated that ensuring the safety of all children involved was the highest priority.

The toddler and her siblings were placed under protective supervision pending further assessment.

Investigators began reconstructing the timeline leading up to the toddler’s appearance in the woods.

Surveillance footage remains a central piece of evidence in the case.

Authorities are working to determine how the child exited the home without supervision.

Investigators are also attempting to establish how long the child was outdoors before being captured on camera.

Officials noted that toddlers can move quickly and quietly, especially in unsecured environments.

Law enforcement is reviewing whether doors, gates, or other barriers were functioning properly at the residence.

Authorities are also examining whether similar incidents may have occurred in the past.

The condition of the home is being evaluated as part of a broader assessment of the children’s living environment.

Child welfare agencies are conducting their own reviews to determine appropriate next steps.

Officials stated that such cases require careful coordination between law enforcement and social services.

Deputies highlighted the importance of community involvement in ensuring child safety.

Authorities stated that without the property owner’s decision to report the footage, the child’s situation might have gone unnoticed for much longer.

Law enforcement encouraged residents to report any situation involving children that appears unsafe or unusual.

Officials emphasized that reports can be made even when details are incomplete or uncertain.

Investigators noted that early reporting often prevents more serious outcomes.

As the investigation continued, authorities worked to gather statements from all relevant parties.

Deputies conducted interviews with family members and others connected to the household.

Prosecutors will review the evidence collected to determine how the case will proceed.

Officials stated that both adults are expected to appear in court as legal proceedings move forward.

Law enforcement cautioned the public against speculation while the investigation remains active.

Authorities emphasized that each case is evaluated based on facts and evidence.

The sheriff’s office reiterated that the primary goal is the protection of children.

Officials stated that ensuring stable, safe environments is essential for child development.

Investigators continue to assess whether additional charges may be warranted.

Authorities are also reviewing whether any support services were previously offered to the family.

The involvement of multiple agencies reflects the seriousness of the situation.

As of the latest update, the children remain under protective supervision.

Officials stated that decisions regarding long-term placement will be made following thorough evaluations.

Law enforcement emphasized that outcomes will prioritize the children’s safety and well-being.

The case has drawn attention within the community due to the age of the child involved.

Authorities acknowledged the public’s concern but urged patience as the investigation continues.

Officials reiterated that information will be released when appropriate and verified.

For now, deputies and child welfare professionals remain focused on ensuring the children are safe, cared for, and supported.

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details are expected to emerge as authorities complete their review of the events surrounding the toddler’s discovery alone in the woods.