Lompoc, Calif. – Sheriff’s detectives have arrested 40-year-old Ashlee Buzzard on charges unrelated to the ongoing search for her missing 9-year-old daughter, Melodee Buzzard.

Detectives learned of a recent incident where Ashlee prevented a victim from leaving a location, against their will which constitutes false imprisonment. This crime is not connected to the ongoing search for Melodee, however, detectives are unable to fully outline the crime as it would impede their ongoing investigation.

On Friday, November 7, 2025,  detectives arrested Ashlee on a warrant for a felony charge of false imprisonment. She will be booked at the Northern Branch Jail with bail set at $100,000. Her booking photo does not meet the criteria for public release and will not be distributed.

Although this arrest occurred during the course of the missing person investigation, it is not directly related to Melodee’s disappearance. Sheriff’s detectives remain fully focused on locating Melodee and confirming her safety.

Members of the public who have seen Melodee or who may have information about her whereabouts are urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office through any of the following methods:

• Detectives Line: (805) 681-4150

• Anonymous Tip Line: (805) 681-4171

• Online Tips: www.sbsheriff.org/home/anonymous-tip/