A mother falsely accused a California couple of attempting to kidnap her children, but the incident was deemed to never have taken place, and she has now been charged.
Kathleen Sorensen, 31, is a mother of two and an online influencer and on December 7, 2020, she filed a police report with the Petaluma Police Department stating that a couple attempted to abduct her children in a parking lot.
The incident took place after the influencer had gone shopping with her kids at a Bay Area Michaels craft store, where she purchased a few items before putting them in her car and leaving the area.
As reported by Good Morning America, Sorensen posted a video on her Instagram page shortly after the supposed incident took place, detailing the events.
"Monday of this week, my children were the targets of attempted kidnap," she said. "I want to share that story with you in an effort to raise awareness as to what signs to look for and to just encourage parents to be more aware of their surroundings."
The couple that the 31-year-old accused was Sadie and Eddie Martinez, who identified themselves a few days after the influencer's claims had gone viral.
As per the Petaluma Argus-Courier, Sadie Martinez, who is Latina, believed that the incident was racially motivated.
Despite Sorensen's claims, officials stated that the accounts of the accused coupled and the CCTV footage was enough evidence to dispute the complaint.
She eventually revealed that there was no kidnapping attempt, but her attorney, Charles Drescow, told Good Morning America that her comments weren't malicious lies.
"My client testified under oath at trial and maintains that there was no kidnapping on December 7," Dresow said. "She misperceived and misunderstood a series of random events which were occurring around her and made an honest report to the police on December 7."
The Sonoma County District Attorney announced on Thursday that the 31-year-old had been found guilty of one count of false report of a crime.
District Attorney Rodriguez stated: “This verdict will enable us to hold Ms. Sorensen accountable for her crime, while at the same time helping to exonerate the couple that was falsely accused of having attempted to kidnap two young children. The case is also important in that it illustrates the importance of using social media responsibly.”
After the trial, Sadie Martinez told Elle: "After (Sorensen) avoided accountability for years, and then hearing she was found guilty and walked out in handcuffs… Yes, justice was served. I feel like it’s a step in the right direction for my family. I’m grateful for the support."
Sorensen was found not guilty on two further charges, with her attorney telling CNN: "[She is] grateful that she was acquitted of two of the allegations against her."
Following the verdict, Sorensen was remanded in custody and a bail of $100,000 was set. She posted bail and will return to court on June 14 for her sentencing.
The maximum penalty for the misdemeanor is six months in jail.
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