More On The Missing Child Case Of Andrew Freund

Police in Crystal Lake, Illinois, will hold a press conference this afternoon to update the public on the search for Andrew “A.J.” Freund, a 5-year-old boy who disappeared last week. Police have publicly stated that the boy’s mother, JoAnn Cunningham, is not cooperating with authorities.

Cunningham has been investigated by Child Protective Services 17 times in the past five years for suspected child abuse and neglect. On Tuesday, the Chicago Tribune reported that police searched Cunningham’s home and found shockingly filthy conditions, but no sign of the missing boy.

The house apparently had no power, the windows were broken, and there were signs of drug abuse inside the home. Police were seen removing items from the home on Tuesday, including a shovel, plastic bags, and a child’s mattress.

A.J.’s father, Andrew Freund Sr., called 911 to report him missing last week, saying he disappeared sometime after his parents put him to bed on Wednesday, April 17th. Freund said he searched for his son before reporting him missing.

“We’ve canvassed the neighborhood. I went to the local park. Um, local gas station down here where we sometimes take him to buy treats,” Freund Sr. told 911 dispatchers. “I spoke with the assistant principal over at the school and where the park is and they haven’t seen him or any other child. I have no idea where he would be.”

Cunningham has hired a defense attorney to represent her. At their press conference, police are expected to update the public on what they know so far and ask anyone with more information to contact them.