Father of 3-year-old girl kidnapped in Alabama counting the days until her return

ORANGE BEACH, Ala. (WKRG) — Being 3-year-old Kionii Haugen’s dad, “That’s my world, she is everything that keeps me going,” is everything Bryce Haugen could have ever dreamed of. “It feels wholesome, it feels complete.”

The toddler is at the center of a custody battle that began in Orange Beach and has led to an international kidnapping charge against a mother, all while the Mexican government refuses to release the little girl to U.S. authorities.

“My patience is running very thin,” Haugen said in an exclusive interview with WKRG.

Almost two weeks ago, Haugen said Haley Harris, the girl’s mother, showed up unannounced while everyone was still asleep, grabbed the child, and started packing her things. Orange Beach Police were called to the house.

“They considered it a civil matter, said Haugen. “We will let you say bye, and they have every right to drive off.”

A federal criminal complaint spells out what authorities said happened next. Harris would take Kionii to San Diego, California, where she had pre-arranged transportation to Mexico. Authorities said it was an intentional act to keep Bryce away from his daughter.

“I’m not fine with any of this. I want my daughter back,” Haugen said.

With few answers, Haugen’s frustration is building. Federal authorities believe Kionii could be returned to the U.S. sometime next week. For a Dad missing his daughter, it won’t be soon enough.

“It’s horrible, like you’re losing faith. Why isn’t my daughter here?” said Haugen.

Mexican authorities tell Haugen Kionii is in good health and safe.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt and Congressman Barry Moore have been contacted on the family’s behalf and said the state department is now involved.