West Los Angeles: On Saturday, July 14, 2001, at approximately 10:00 a.m., Judith Cohen, a dependency investigator with the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), filed a Child Abduction report with the Los Angeles Police Department.

On May 31, 2001, at 1:00 p.m., Jannette Quero, 22 year old female Hispanic and the mother of one year old Hilary Mendez, was at a dependency court hearing regarding domestic violence "Failure to Protect" case. Quero was informed by her lawyer that the DCFS was recommending that the physical custody of the child be removed from her home and the child be placed in a shelter care. Quero left the courthouse and did not return when the court reconvened. The judge ordered a protective custody warrant for Quero's arrest.

Cohen visited Quero's residence, 1975 South Chariton Street in Los Angeles, and was informed by her neighbor that Quero had fled the location with her child possibly to Mexico, her native country.

Quero is described as a female Hispanic, 5'2", 135 lbs., fair complexion.

Anyone with information should contact West Los Angeles Community Police Station at 310-575-8404.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section 213-485-3586.