Police: Parents illegally take children from CPS custody

FRESNO, Calif. -- Madera police said a couple illegally took two of their three children who had been placed in the custody of Child Protective Services, and now they're asking for the public's help in locating the suspects and their kids.

Donald and Mandee Murphy had their three children removed from their custody and placed with CPS on Sept. 21, and were charged with child endangerment, along with possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, according to authorities.

On Saturday, police say the parents used a ruse to take two of their children -- 6-year-old Dominic and 13-year-old Cali -- from CPS custody, and none of them have been seen or heard from since.

Detectives said they are investigating a few leads, but no other information has been released.

Anyone who sees the suspects or children is urged to contact the Madera Police Department at (559) 675-4220.

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