05/01/2026
Public Assistance Needed
Press Release 5-1-2026
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Kevin W. Cripps, is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 13-year-old Hope L. Ballard of rural Salem, Illinois.
Hope left her residence during the early morning hours of April 30, 2026 and is believed to have departed voluntarily. She is currently considered an Endangered Missing Person. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office has requested, and the State of Illinois has issued, an Endangered Missing Person Advisory for Hope Ballard.
Hope is described as approximately 5 feet tall, weighing 200 pounds, with hazel eyes and brown hair. She was last seen wearing a white shirt and pajama pants.
Investigators believe her possible destination may include the states of Virginia or Oklahoma.
Anyone with information regarding Hope’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Marion County Sheriff’s Office at 618-548-2141, notify their local law enforcement agency, or submit a tip through the Marion County Sheriff’s Office mobile application app.
Law enforcement will continue working diligently until Hope is located.
Sheriff Kevin W. Cripps
