Redding, California, March 22, 2025 — Sherri Papini, the California woman who fabricated her own kidnapping in 2016, is currently embroiled in a legal dispute with her ex-husband, Keith Papini, over visitation rights concerning their two children. This development follows her release from prison after serving time for the kidnapping hoax that once captivated national attention.
Background of the Kidnapping Hoax:
In November 2016, Sherri Papini was reported missing while jogging near her Redding home. She resurfaced three weeks later, claiming abduction by two Hispanic women. However, investigations revealed she had been staying with an ex-boyfriend and had inflicted injuries on herself to support her false narrative. In 2022, she pleaded guilty to charges of mail fraud and making false statements, resulting in an 18-month prison sentence and an order to pay over $300,000 in restitution.
Current Custody Dispute:
Following her release in August 2023, Sherri Papini has sought visitation rights with her children, who have been under the sole custody of their father, Keith Papini, since her arrest. Keith filed for divorce and obtained full custody after the kidnapping hoax was unveiled. The ongoing court proceedings in Shasta County Superior Court have been marked by tensions, with Sherri alleging that Keith’s participation in a recent Hulu docuseries about her case is detrimental to their children’s well-being.
The Hulu Docuseries Controversy:
The release of “The Perfect Wife: The Mysterious Disappearance of Sherri Papini” has added complexity to the custody battle. Sherri contends that the series, which features interviews with Keith, could harm their children by reopening past traumas. She has requested the court to prevent Keith from allowing the children to view the docuseries, emphasizing the family’s prolonged media scrutiny.
Legal Proceedings:
The court session, presided over by Judge Kathryn J. Barton, is expected to address various issues, including child custody visitation and attorney fees. Both parties have legal representation actively involved in the case. The outcome of this dispute remains pending, with the children’s best interests as the court’s primary concern.
Public and Media Attention:
The Papini case continues to draw significant public interest, reflecting broader societal discussions on criminal justice, parental rights, and media influence. The unfolding legal battle serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impacts of publicized personal actions on familial relationships.
