Gannon Stauch's stepmother releases statement about Colorado boy's disappearance

EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KDVR) -- The stepmother of missing El Paso County boy Gannon Stauch released a statement Tuesday night about his disappearance.

Letecia Stauch said she last saw 11-year-old Gannon between 3:15 and 4 p.m. on Jan. 27 heading to a friend's home in their suburban El Paso County neighborhood.

Letecia has received significant criticism online, with many accusing her of being involved in Gannon's disappearance.

She issued the following statement: (READ FULL STATEMENT HERE)

"First and foremost, I would like to thank all agencies, volunteers, and community members who are working diligently and praying endlessly to bring Gannon home safe. Thank you to my husband who has stayed strong through this and protected our family to the best of his ability and our immediate & extended family members throughout the east coast. To Gannon, please come home soon because your daddy is waiting to watch the new Sonic movie that comes out this week and the cool shirt I got you to wear to the theatre is in your closet.

"Social Media has been devastating from the harsh comments, speculations, threats, cyber bullying, etc. It has been a challenge when people are trying to run you off the road, waiting outside your hotel, threatening to kill you, etc. I encourage the Sheriff's Office to take down those pages that promote negative behavior and violence. Let's Do what Gannon would do. Be Kind to one another!

"We all have engaged in something crazy online at some point but Gannon would want everyone to get along and to focus on finding him. ... "

READ the rest of the statement from Tecia Stauch - KDVR

Anyone with information about Stauch's whereabouts should contact the sheriff's office's Investigations Tip Line at (719) 520-6666 or call 911, if appropriate.