Alicia Brown’s arrest is drawing renewed attention after her mugshot was released and the father of her missing daughter, Ailea Brown, spoke publicly about the case.

Brown was reportedly taken into custody on outstanding kidnapping-related warrants connected to the 2019 disappearance of her daughter. Following the arrest, Durrell Williams, Ailea’s father, appeared on the Nina & Joe Afternoon Show on WHUR FM and shared how he learned Alicia had been detained.

Williams said he received a call informing him that Brown was in custody. However, he also clarified that Ailea was not among the two children reportedly found in the vehicle at the time of Alicia’s arrest.

“They haven’t located Ailea yet. They’re still searching,” Williams said during the interview. Still, he made it clear that he believes his daughter is alive.

“She’s alive. She’s definitely alive, I can confirm that,” he said. “I’ve always known that. I’ve always known pretty much what was going on.”

Williams also became emotional while speaking about the situation, saying the arrest was painful because Alicia is still Ailea’s mother. He said he hates that things reached this point, but stressed that his daughter being taken away was not right.

“This is not okay,” Williams said. “This is actually against the law.”

He also shared a direct message for Ailea, who is now 17 years old. Williams said he hopes she understands the truth in time and knows that he still misses her.

“I can’t wait to see you,” he said, adding that he hopes they can eventually reconnect and “start on a good foot.”

The case has gained more attention online in recent weeks following public conversations involving Alicia Brown and previously circulated footage connected to her name. However, Williams said he is sorry that his daughter’s name is being discussed under such painful circumstances instead of for her talents and accomplishments.

Authorities are reportedly still searching for Ailea Brown.