Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Sherri Papini's Shocking Confession: Kidnapping Hoax Unveiled

5/31/2025

24 5

Summary

Story summary

Sherri Papini, who mysteriously disappeared in Redding, California, on November 2, 2016, initially claimed she was kidnapped but later admitted to fabricating the story. In a revealing new documentary, she now alleges abuse by ex-boyfriend James Reyes, contradicting her earlier denials. Her shifting narratives and a failed polygraph test cast doubt on her credibility.

1 of 1

Story summary

Sherri Papini, who mysteriously disappeared in Redding, California, on November 2, 2016, initially claimed she was kidnapped but later admitted to fabricating the story. In a revealing new documentary, she now alleges abuse by ex-boyfriend James Reyes, contradicting her earlier denials. Her shifting narratives and a failed polygraph test cast doubt on her credibility.