DOTHAN, Ala. (AP) -- Dothan police say the mother of a missing teenager is now believed to be assisting in the girl's alleged abduction by the youth's stepfather.
Authorities say they've yet to locate 15-year-old Ailene Lander. And they're asking for the public's help in finding her and her mother, Julie Bethke.
Police say Lander was abducted Monday in Dothan by her stepfather and Bethke's husband, 36-year-old Charles Partin. He's known to friends as Dean Partin.
Officials say the girl was in custody of state welfare officials at the time, and neither adult had the legal right to take her.
Police say Partin and Bethke are believed to be with Lander and the girl's five other siblings. They consider all the children to be endangered.
FBI agents are assisting in the case.