suspected of kidnapping thomas. >> he's a former teacher. this is and was not a romance. this was manipulation solely to benefit tad cummings. >> reporter: thomas has been mincing since march 13th weeks after a student reported seeing them kissing. >> we have had no sightings of each individual. >> reporter: children over 12 years old can decide whether to leave their families unless the removal or confinement is by force, threat or fraud. the district attorney cooper is fighting to change the law. he hopes state lawmakers consider elizabeth's case when they hold their next meeting next year. >> the statute should say if it's without the consent of the parents or guard yens that should be a crime. >> reporter: the tennessee bureau of investigation translated the a.m. bember aler spanish. family and friends continue searching for elizabeth hoping