Drake Bell.Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty
The Daytona Beach Police Departmentannouncedon Facebook Thursday morning that “officers are looking” for Bell.
“He should be traveling in a 2022 grey BMW and his last known location is potentially the area of Mainland High School on 4/12/2023 just before 9 p.m.,” the post read. “He is considered missing and endangered.”
Just hours later, Daytona Beach Police Department Public Information Officer Carrie McCallister confirmed to PEOPLE that the former child star had been located.
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Drake Bell.Michael Tran/Getty
“At this time, we can confirm law enforcement officials are in contact and Mr. Bell is safe,” the statement read.
Bell shares son with ex-wifeJanet Von Schmeling. In January, a source told PEOPLE that the couple — who quietly wed in 2018 —separated late last year. But the exes are “committed to maintaining a peaceful co-parenting relationship and giving their son the best life possible,” the source explained.
Bell has frequently garnered headlines for his controversial behavior. His ex-girlfriend Melissa Lingafeltaccused him of verbal and physical abusein 2020, but he has denied the allegations. He was also charged with a misdemeanor in 2016 and served one day in jailfor a 2015 suspicion of DUI.
In June 2021, Bell wasarrestedfor attempted child endangerment and disseminating matter harmful to juveniles. His victim — who was 15 at the time — alsoaccused him of sexual misconductbut his attorney disputed the allegations.
Bell pleaded guilty to the endangerment charges. He wassentencedthat July to two years of probation and 200 hours of community service. Additionally, he was told not to contact the victim.
source: people.com
