Woman Who Fled With Son in 1981 Will Face Trial

An ex-wife who fled with her son in 1981 and hid from the boy’s father for 14 years chose Friday to face trial for child abduction rather than plead guilty and spend nine months in jail.

An expected plea agreement involving 45-year-old Ann Kennedy fell apart when the judge indicated the punishment would be harsher than the 60 to 90 days recommended by probation officials, according to the prosecutor in the case.

Orange County Superior Court Judge Eileen C. Moore scheduled trial for Feb. 13.

Kennedy, free on bail and living in San Bernardino County, faces up to three years in state prison if convicted of abducting her son David, then 3, from her ex-husband, who had legal custody.

Authorities found Ann Kennedy and 18-year-old David last spring. The teenager lives with his mother and is getting to know his father, William Kennedy, who searched vainly but gave up years ago.

William Kennedy, a former Tustin resident who now lives in suburban San Diego, said he was glad the judge rejected the suggestion for leniency. But he sounded resigned.

“I wish it was over with. I have a relationship with my son that keeps continuing on hold mode,” he said. “Until this thing is over, I don’t know if we’ll ever have a real relationship.”

Moore had asked probation officials for a presentencing report. The report recommended Ann Kennedy serve 60 to 90 days in jail and then receive probation, noting she caused emotional harm to father and son but provided a good home and otherwise obeyed the law.

Deputy Dist. Atty. Kelly Maceachern said Ann Kennedy deserved prison time for stealing 14 years of a father-son relationship. Defense lawyer Michael R. McDonnell could not be reached for comment after the court hearing.