Family of Marokopa fugitive Tom Phillips break silence with emotional appeal

Tuesday 19 August 2025 · 5 outlets · 5 reports · updated Tue 19 Aug 2025, 12:49pm

The family of Tom Phillips has spoken out for the first time regarding his disappearance with three children in December 2021. Phillips' mother wrote a heartfelt letter to her son and grandchildren, expressing her daily hope for their return. The children, Jayda, Maverick and Ember, have been missing for more than three years.

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1. StuffTue 19 Aug 2025, 4:00am

   Mum of Marokopa fugitive Tom Phillips writes him letter: ‘Every day I hope you come home’ (opens in new tab)

2. NZ HeraldTue 19 Aug 2025, 8:33am

   Marokopa fugitive Tom Phillips’ family break silence, plead for his return with children (opens in new tab)

3. RNZTue 19 Aug 2025, 11:04am

   Tom Phillips' family break silence on 'hurt' at fugitive's disappearance with grandchildren (opens in new tab)

4. Otago Daily TimesTue 19 Aug 2025, 11:13am

   Family's hurt laid bare in letter to fugitive Tom Phillips (opens in new tab)

5. 1NewsTue 19 Aug 2025, 12:49pm

   Mother of Marokopa fugitive Tom Phillips writes letter to son, his kids (opens in new tab)