BARRE, Vt. (AP) – A 14-year-old boy accused of kidnapping a man who was later murdered has disappeared and police are asking for the public’s help in finding him.

Shawn Fordham was reported missing on Tuesday by his mother after the two fought.

Fordham is violating the conditions of his release imposed in September after he was arraigned on charges he helped kidnap James Saunders, 33, who was later beaten to death to avenge a drug deal.

Barre Police officer Kevin Galway said Fordham and his mother argued Monday night, which caused him to leave the house. He returned the next morning but disappeared again after he learned his mother had reported him missing to police.

Fordham, Nathaniel Masi, 15, and Melinda Pike, 17, are charged as adults with kidnapping Saunders after receiving $500 from Leodor Rousseau, 34, who was upset about a bad drug deal with Saunders.

Masi is free on conditions. Pike and Rousseau are in jail awaiting trial.

Rousseau, Joshua Darling, 21 and Aaron Bassett, 28, have pleaded not guilty to murder, kidnapping, attempted assault and robbery. Jonathan Whalley of Northfield, who led police to Saunders’ body, has been charged with being an accessory after the fact.

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Information from: The Times Argus, http://www.timesargus.com/