Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: MONDAY, March 11, 1991                   TAG: 9103110330
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: A-5   EDITION: EVENING 
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: FAIRFAX                                LENGTH: Medium

DEFENSE ATTORNEY ASSAILS DEAL OFFER IN KIDNAP CASE

Hughes, 25, a former Montgomery County resident, was convicted Friday of abduction with intent to defile in the disappearance of Melissa, who was 5 years old when she was reported missing.

"Caleb Hughes denies he abducted with any intent Melissa Brannen," Peter D. Greenspun said Saturday. "He denies he killed her, disposed of her or harmed her in any way." He said he will advise his client to appeal the conviction.

Fairfax County Commonwealth's Attorney Robert F. Horan Jr. said if Hughes agreed to reveal where the girl is, he would consider not prosecuting him on additional charges if she is dead, or would seek less than the maximum sentence.

Tammy Brannen, who has made several pleas to Melissa's abductor to return her daughter, said Saturday that if such an offer were made to Hughes she would consider it because it would remove the girl from any more harm or allow the family to give her a proper burial.

"I can't say that definitely, because I have not discussed this with Mr. Horan," Brannen said. "Like I said (Friday), this isn't a victory because I still don't know where my daughter is. If that is an alternative for finding her, that would be something I would seriously consider."

A jury recommended Hughes be sentenced to 50 years in prison, which a judge can lower but cannot increase.

Melissa disappeared from a Christmas party Dec. 3, 1989, at her Lorton apartment complex. The girl has not been found, but many close to the case say they believe she is dead.