IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF LIBERTY COUNTY STATE OF GEORGIA In the interest of DRAKE HUNTER POOLE, A male child born in 2018 Case No.: 2025-A-12 AFFIDAVIT IN SUPPORT OF MOTION FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION Personally appeared Katie R. Bates, attorney for Petitioners Darius B. Russell and Britnay M. Russell in the above-styled action, who, being duly sworn, says: 1. This affidavit is given on the basis of the affiant having knowledge pertaining to the above-styled action. 2. Respondent Amber Lail is the natural mother of the above-named child. The Mother was not married at the time the child was born. 3. The Mother never disclosed who the biological father of the child may be to the Long County Department of Family and Children Services and the true biological father may never be known. 4. Petitioners were granted permanent guardianship of the above minor child on or about July 19, 2021, in Long County Juvenile Court under Case No. 091-19DF-2. 5. At the time the Petitioners were awarded permanent guardianship of the child by the Long County Juvenile Court Judge, the Department of Family and Children Services were unable to ascertain information on the biological father's name or whereabouts. 6. Petitioners do not have any additional information regarding the biological father's whereabouts or current activities such that they can physically locate him. This the 10th day of July, 2025. Katie R. Bates, Affiant Sworn to and subscribed before me this the 10th day of July, 2025. Vanessa L. Horne Notary Public, State of Georgia My commission expires 51664 9/11/25 RL