The FBI is investigating the whereabouts of Jaime Dugan, a former contestant on "Survivor: China," and her 16-year-old son, Harper Huffman. Dugan allegedly disappeared with Huffman after failing to return him to his father, Erik Huffman, following a weekend visit on August 30.
A court order from Spartanburg County Family Court on September 21 found Dugan in contempt of court for withholding Huffman and missing subsequent court dates. The judge declared the teen "missing and endangered" and issued a statewide arrest warrant for Dugan.
Erik Huffman expressed concern for his son's safety, stating, "Harper’s safety and wellbeing is my top priority right now, and getting him back safely is extremely important." He noted that he and Harper had developed a strong relationship since the teen came into his care.
Dugan and Erik Huffman met while competing on "Survivor: China" in 2007 and married in 2009. They settled in South Carolina and had Harper in 2010. Huffman became a physician assistant, while Dugan established an online presence as an influencer under the name "Charleston Blonde."
Their divorce proceedings in 2024 were contentious. Huffman was awarded full custody of Harper after an eight-day trial, with Dugan granted visitation rights every other weekend. Huffman stated he wanted his son to maintain a relationship with his mother but is now focused on his safe return, adding, "I truly am concerned about her mental stability, and his safety."
Dugan reportedly refused to disclose her and Harper's locations during a remote court hearing on September 15 and failed to appear in person with Harper for a subsequent hearing on September 18. The judge then ordered her arrest and that she surrender Harper's passport, suspending her visitation rights and granting Huffman sole custody.
The court order also addressed allegations Dugan made during the custody battle, including accusations of physical abuse against Huffman and sexual abuse against Huffman's mother. The judge deemed these allegations unfounded and not a justification for defying custody orders, stating that Dugan had legal avenues to address any fears for Harper's safety instead of hiding him.
Huffman has denied the abuse allegations. Dugan also faced a now-dropped cyberstalking charge in North Carolina and recently filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, reporting over $509,000 in debt.
Her divorce attorney, Jonathan Lewis, stated that Dugan is presumed innocent until proven guilty and expressed hope for Harper's safe and swift return.