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Family identifies James Opperman as suspect after Leah Hatton disappears from Grant County Library in Williamstown

James Opperman
James Opperman

What began as a regular day at a local library has now turned into every parent’s worst nightmare.

A teenage girl named Leah Hatton has gone missing in Williamstown, Kentucky, and her family believes they know who’s behind it.

They’re urging the public to help bring their daughter home.

Family Identifies Person of Interest in Disappearance

Leah’s family has publicly identified James Opperman as the main suspect in her disappearance.

They believe he kidnapped Leah—possibly with the help of his wife, Christine Opperman.

While official details are still unfolding, this development has put a spotlight on the couple as key persons of interest.

According to family members, they are pleading for anyone who may have seen James or knows his location to contact authorities immediately.

The Last Time Leah Was Heard From

According to the Kentucky State Police (KSP), Leah last spoke to her mother on Wednesday, letting her know that she was planning to leave.

That call was the last time anyone in her family heard from her.

Authorities say she was last spotted at the Grant County Library, a popular spot in Williamstown, and it’s believed that she disappeared sometime after that.

What Leah Looks Like and What She Was Wearing

Leah is described as being 5 feet 1 inch tall, weighing around 115 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes.

When she was last seen, she was wearing a black long-sleeve shirt, maroon shorts, and black-and-white Converse shoes.

She is also known to use another name—Malia Sinclair—which could be relevant to those who may have seen her in passing.

Urgent Appeal for Public Assistance

The family has made a direct public statement asking for help:

“This man, James Opperman, is a person of interest in my daughter’s disappearance.

If you have any info regarding his whereabouts, please contact KSP at 859-428-1212.”

The Kentucky State Police are actively investigating and have asked anyone with information—no matter how small—to come forward.

They’re encouraging members of the public who may have been in the area or who know the Oppermans to reach out as soon as possible.

How You Can Help

If you’ve seen Leah Hatton (or Malia Sinclair), or have any knowledge about James or Christine Opperman’s whereabouts, please call Kentucky State Police at 859-428-1212.

Even the smallest tip could help bring Leah home and bring answers to a family desperate for any sign of their daughter.