Family hopes for woman's safe return

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) - Portsmouth detectives are asking for the public's assistance in locating a missing woman.

Kathryn Bene Griffin , 43, was last seen by a family member at her place of employment, Perry's Cutz, located in the 3500 block of Victory Boulevard. Police said she left the business on her bicycle shortly before noon on Jan. 7.

Inside Perry's Cutz there is a secret to a good trim.

"Everything takes time," said William Perry.

Like any good barber, Perry has no shortage of questions.

"How long have you been fully gray?," he asked one customer.

But these days, there is one question he can't get an answer for.

"I never thought that my kids' mother would be missing...," Perry said. "I never thought in a million years."

The chair next to Perry's is empty and has been for two months.

"She left on the bicycle that morning and we haven't seen her since," Perry said. "I do want her to be found. Her kids want their mother back."

No one knows what happened to Griffin, and for Perry, it's hard not to think the worst.

"Everyday, I run A to Z in my mind," Perry explained. "If it takes a lifetime, I'm going to keep hoping and praying that she comes back."

Police said Griffin left the business on a brown bicycle. She was wearing blue jeans, a plaid jacket and a black smock.

Police don't know where Griffin was going, but told WAVY.com it is unusual for her to not contact family.

Griffin is 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 150 pounds. She has short, dark hair, has both ears pierced and has a large scar on her stomach.

"If you know anything about her, please contact us," Perry urged.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.