Suspect in missing mom case to keep custody of children

During an emergency hearing on Wednesday, a judge ruled that Dale Smith Jr., the prime suspect in the disappearance of Michelle Parker, will keep custody of their two children.

Tuesday, the Department of Children and Families took the children into protective custody.

However, on Wednesday, the judge said there wasn't enough evidence to remove the children from Smith's care, but if more evidence comes forward, the court will revisit the issue.

Since Parker's disappearance, the children have been staying with Smith, her ex-fiance.

Parker also has an 11-year-old son who is not Smith's child.

The 33-year-old mother of three disappeared on Nov. 17 after she appeared on a taped episode of "The People's Court" with Smith in a dispute over her lost engagement ring. During the episode Parker also accused Smith of being so physical she once tried to get a restraining order against him.

A few hours after the episode aired, Parker dropped off her twins at Smith's condo. Parker's SUV was found the day after she vanished.

Police said Smith is the only suspect at this point and they also said Smith refused to take a polygraph.

Stay tuned to WFTV and WFTV.com for more information as it becomes available.