SANTA MARTA, Colombia — Professional tattoo artist and former VH1 Black Ink Crew star Melody Mitchell has issued a public plea for assistance, stating that she is trapped in a distressing custody battle in Santa Marta, Colombia, and alleging that her son is being kept from her.
In a statement calling for immediate intervention, Mitchell described a sequence of legal barriers and threats that have left her unable to return home with her child.
“I am a United States citizen, and I am in the middle of a child custody battle down here in Santa Marta, Colombia, for over a year and a half,” Mitchell said. “My son is being held hostage in Colombia for over two and a half years.”
Allegations of Due Process Violations and Threats
Mitchell asserts that local legal processes in her case have been compromised and that she has been denied access to a fair trial. The situation escalated recently when she reported receiving direct threats while attempting to navigate her return to the United States.
According to Mitchell, she was confronted at the local airport and warned against attempting to exit the country:
- Airport Confrontation: Mitchell reported being threatened directly at the Santa Marta airport regarding her ability to leave Colombia.
- Procedural Irregularities: She claims to have documentation demonstrating that key legal processes and standard judicial procedures were bypassed during the ongoing proceedings.
- Compliance with the Law: Mitchell emphasized that she has consistently followed legal requirements throughout the dispute and is seeking standard consular and diplomatic oversight.
Call to Action for Authorities
Mitchell is calling on local government leadership and American diplomatic officials to step in and review the circumstances surrounding her custody case and safety:
- Mayor of Santa Marta: An explicit request was made to Mayor Carlos Pinedo Cuello to examine the local handling of her legal case and ensure her safety within the municipality.
- U.S. Embassy in Colombia: Mitchell is seeking direct intervention from the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá to uphold her rights as an American citizen and assist in resolving the international custody deadlock.
“I am now calling on the mayor of Santa Marta, Mr. Carlos Pinedo Cuello, as well as the U.S. Embassy here in Colombia and all authorities that can help,” Mitchell stated. “I have been following the law and I am just trying to be reunited with my son. Please share this. I am just trying to have my voice heard.”
Background
Melody Mitchell first gained widespread national attention as a featured tattoo artist on VH1’s hit reality series Black Ink Crew, showcasing her fine art background and custom tattooing style. Known on social media and in the industry as Melody Tattoos, she has built a prominent career as both an artist and television personality.
Further updates on consular involvement or statements from local authorities in Santa Marta have not yet been released.
