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New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/have-you-seen-this-child-keyosha-cohn/

Have you seen this child? KEYOSHA COHN

Keyosha Cohn

Have you seen this child? KEYOSHA COHN.

#Keyosha Cohn

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/savannah-baker/

Savannah Baker

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/amber-cambron-missing-teen-from-douglasville-ga/

Amber Cambron, Missing Teen from Douglasville, GA

Amber Cambron, 16 Missing Teen

By: Shellee Hale, MPN Editor [email protected]

Douglasville, GA (MPN) — Amber Cambron is a 16 year old missing from Douglasville, GA. She was last seen on February 17, 2015. Amber is a White female with brown hair and brown eyes and 5’8″ tall and 140 lbs. Amber is believed to be in the local area and when she went missing her hair was died light brown.

If you have any information please contact Douglas County Sheriff;s Office (Georgia) at 7709-42-2121

#Amber Cambron #Douglasville #GA #MPN

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/ncmec-teams-with-disney-club-penguin-to-make-kids-good-digital-citizens/

NCMEC Teams with Disney Club Penguin to Make Kids Good Digital Citizens

National Center For Missing and Exploited Children

New online educator training program helps educators, law enforcement officers and others teach digital citizenship and online safety to children ages 5-17

Alexandria, Va. (MPN), Feb. 10, 2015 –Today, on Safer Internet Day, in collaboration with Disney Club Penguin, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s® NetSmartz® Workshop launched an online educator training program. The new program, “Teaching Digital Citizenship,” aims to arm educators, law enforcement officers and others with the tools they need to teach Internet safety to children ages 5-17. The free training program is available online and focuses on good digital citizenship, both what it is and how to teach it.

“The distinction between online and offline means less to the next generation. They are digital natives, who grew up online,” said John Ryan, NCMEC president and CEO. “When teaching kids to be ethical and safe, we cannot ignore the choices they are making on the Internet or through social media. This training can help anyone involved with educating children understand the risks kids face online and how to empower them to be responsible digital citizens.” The training tackles issues like digital literacy, online privacy, online sexual solicitation, sexting and cyberbullying. It was created by NCMEC based on the organization’s experience with online crimes against children and insight into the newest strategies in Internet safety education. It is self-paced and consists of a series of videos and quizzes that take about an hour to complete. The training educates the participant about the most prevalent Internet safety issues and resources they can use to teach children to avoid those issues. When finished, the program offers a certificate that teachers can use to apply for continuing education credits. The free training is available at www.NetSmartz.org/training.

Disney Club Penguin has worked with NCMEC on Internet safety efforts for the past five years. Together they have reached communities around the nation to bring free safety education and resources to educators, law-enforcement officers, parents and children. As part of Club Penguin’s global ‘It Starts with You’ online safety campaign in 2014, they distributed over 16,000 materials to schools, libraries, nonprofit organizations and youth groups.

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/mother-of-five-wanda-lemons-missing-since-november-5th-2014/

Mother of Five Wanda Lemons Missing Since November 5th, 2014

By: Shellee Hale, MPN Reporter

[email protected]

Chillicothe, OH (MPN) — The mother of Ms. Lemons filed a report on this date stating she had not spoken to her daughter Wanda for over 2 months. Although common for Ms. Lemons to go without being heard from for periods of time, her mother states it is unlike her to not call or visit during the holidays.

The investigating officer contacted a friend of Ms. Lemons from information given by her mother. The friend advised he had last seen Ms. Lemons on 11-3-14. Days later, The friend heard she had gone to Texas with a truck driver named Demarcus or Darius Thomas, B/M unk. age. The officer is following up on other information and leads as they become available. Due to information we received and other facts in this matter, Ms. Lemons fit the criteria for immediate entry into the LEADS/NCIC system. If she is contacted by Law Enforcement, they will be notified she is a missing person.

Wanda Lemons is a w/f, 5’07” 135 pounds brown hair and blue eyes. Anyone with information on her whereabouts can call Ofc. C. King with the Chillicothe, Oh police department at 740-773-1191.

Anonymous tips can be made through Southern Ohio Crime Stoppers by calling(740)773-TIPS or (800)222-TIPS, by texting keyword LOWDOWN to CRIMES (274637)

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/missing-man-from-carson-boarding-house/

Missing Man from Carson Boarding House

By: Shellee Hale, MPN Contributor

Carson CA (MPN) –Mickey Williams is 5’7, African American, age 42 has been missing since January 28, 2015. Williams was staying at a boarding care called Olivia Isabel Manor: An Adult Residential Facility at 21515 S. Figueroa Street, Carson, California. Williams left the boarding home with no identification and never returned. Williams is in need of medication and may be a danger to himself.

If anyone has seen Mickey Williams they are asked to contact the Carson Sheriff’s office at (310)830-1123

#Ca #Carson #Mickey Williams #Missing Man

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/missing-ohio-woman-gets-extra-push-to-the-spotlight/

Missing Ohio Woman Gets Extra Push to the Spotlight

Amanda Ward-Romine Missing since 7/5/2013

BY: Shellee Hale, MPN News Desk- via Press Release from Cue Center

Willmington, NC (MPN) — Amanda Ward-Romine vanished more than a year ago and now her case is one of many unsolved missing person cases a national organization is featuring as a part of their program called “I’m Not to Old to be a Missing Child”. The Springfield woman has been missing since on or before July 5, 2013. Reports state that it is believed that the last person to see her was her husband. Her immediate family states that it is unlike Amanda to not stay in touch with her family for such a length of time and remain very concerned about her whereabouts. To date no information has located Amanda Ward-Romine.

Missing Since: 07/05/13 Missing From: Springfield Ohio Age at Disappearance: 30 Date of Birth: 02/24/83 White Female Height: 5’2 Weight: 130 Hair: Blonde Eyes: Blue Scars – Tattoos: Tattoo of a fish on the right side of neck; the word “Danny” on her right foot and the word “Romine” on her left foot.

Lamar Sign Company of Dayton, Ohio has donated the four locations in collaboration with the center’s campaign effort. Billboards were launched late yesterday afternoon with facts and contact information concerning the missing woman. “Our billboard project is a simply awareness campaign to aid the families and investigators in each case lending a reminder that tips and information are still being sought from the public”. “The purpose for any investigation requires the need of information that may yield a location or help those involved to “get to the next search” with hope of a resolution for families left behind that suffer the unknown fate of a missing loved one”, explained CUE founder, Monica Caison. Bill Board Information

If anyone should have information concerning the whereabouts of Amanda Ward-Romine or have a confidential tip please contact the police agency listed below. Investigative Agency: Springfield Police 937-324-7680 Any information submitted to CUE Center For Missing Persons is confidential and will be sent to investigators or the investigating department on the missing individual’s case. You can visit the missing persons profile to submit an online tip or http://www.ncmissingpersons.org/amanda-ward-romine/ contact CUE at (24 hour line) 910-232-1687 or (office) 910-343-1131

#Amanda Ward-Romine #Cue Center #missing woman #Ohio #Springfield

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/recovering-patsy-calloway-by-tina-m-cummins-mpn-photojournalist/

Recovering Patsy Calloway, By Tina M Cummins, MPN photojournalist

On the heels of the Debra Calloway trial, family is desperate to bring home their loved one, Patricia Ann Kessinger Calloway, who’d been missing since March 3rd, 1993. Debra Calloway, Patsy’s ex-sister-in-law, was recently found guilty by a jury to facilitating her murder, tampering with physical evidence, and witness intimidation. During that trial, evidence was shown to the jury that included a confession letter by Debra’s now deceased husband. In the letter he states that he killed Patsy. A hand-drawn map by the murderer, led family and police to the farm of Andy Anderson, a local business man.

Now comes Darrell Kessinger, Patsy’s brother, who’d been searching for his sister for almost 22 years. Initially Darrell states that he’d asked Andy Anderson to search the property, but was told he was not allowed to bring in a search team. After the trial, several developments have taken place including a bone that was found on the property and a tree marker with a cross, cut into the tree. According to Kessinger, he believes this is the spot where his sister’s remains are most likely located because of the map drawn by Vernon Gene Calloway, the confessed murderer. Kessinger states that police went out there and poked around for a few days, but did not find his sister or dig in the spot where the bone was recovered. It is also not certain if the bone was human or animal and family believes it was collected for testing.

Kessinger believes that law enforcement has overlooked clear evidence which includes the cross in the tree and two RC Cola bottles that dated back to 1993. Andy Anderson released a statement that he is willing to allow searches to be conducted as long as it is accompanied by and in the cooperation of law enforcement because of liability factors, including injury while on his property, or damages that may occur. Kessinger is asking, “What’s holding them up?” They know my sister is out there, the murderer drew them a map for heaven’s sake!” He states, “This crime was never unsolved, just unproven. Now that they have the map and proof, I don’t understand why they can’t go get my sister. We already have a site for her burial. I’ve made two promises to my sister. The first was to seek justice and the second is to bring her home. I will not rest until my sister is buried properly where we as a family can grieve her loss.”

Recently, Kessinger was told that the Kentucky State Police will go back in to recover Patsy’s remains if her remains are there, but they will have to bring in a cadaver dog in first to see if they can find anything. He wants to know when this will occur and believes they are dragging their feet. “I realize it’s been 21 years since she went missing, but it doesn’t have to be 22! It may be difficult to find her there, but we’ve got volunteers from the Jodi Powers Search and Rescue Team and others credible agencies who’ve worked many times over with law enforcement, that have agreed to assist with their dogs. At this point, there should be no obstacles, so I just don’t understand why they’re not doing more to recover her.” Kessinger also states that the family was told by leading investigator Sargent Whittaker, that the search will resume when they have leads, because currently they don’t have any. Kessinger says, “What more do they need? They have a confession letter and the killer drew a map! I will not rest until we have my sister.” The sentencing of Debra Calloway for her part in the murder will take place this Fall. Her attorney plans to appeal.

Image provided by Darrell Kessinger

For prior stories regarding the Patsy Calloway murder and recovery, please see the following links: http://missingpersonsnews.com/an-arson-a-wig-and-murder-no-justice-for-patsy-calloway/

http://missingpersonsnews.com/accused-murderer-leisurely-mows-his-lawn/

http://missingpersonsnews.com/finally-some-justice-for-patsykessinger-calloway/

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/finally-some-justice-for-patsy-kessinger-calloway/

Finally, Some Justice for Patsy Kessinger Calloway

By Tina M Cummins, MPN Staff Photojournalist, MPN

On March 3rd, 1993, Patsy Calloway left the nursing home where she worked with her then ex-brother-in-law, Vernon Gene Calloway. She had no idea that it would be the last time anyone saw her. In a bizarre twist of what began as an arson, Patsy’s fate would be sealed as victim of a cold and calculated couple, a victim of premeditated murder. Vernon Gene Calloway killed Patsy to silence her from revealing what she knew to police about an arson, committed by her ex-husband and his brother. His wife Debra Calloway facilitated the murder and helped to cover it up.

On August 1st, 1991, Larry Calloway and Vernon Gene Calloway burned down a home that Larry co-owned with his ex-wife Patsy to collect insurance money. At the time, Patsy was out of state visiting relatives. She learned of the arson that was to take place from her ex-husband Larry. According to Larry Calloway, he’d paid his brother $1,000 from the insurance monies collected, for burning the property. However, Patsy didn’t want him to burn down her home. She was very upset about it according to her brother Darrell Kessinger. The arson took place and Larry Calloway later plead guilty to those charges in 1995, after the disappearance of his live-in ex-wife. Larry claims that he’d turned himself into Kentucky State Police for the arson, because he suspected that his brother, Vernon Gene had killed her over her threats to turn them into police. Vernon Gene Calloway was acquitted of the arson charges in 1996.

On March 3rd, 1993, Vernon Gene Calloway showed up at Patsy’s work, holding a newspaper that had a marriage announcement regarding Patsy’s live-in ex-husband Larry. According to Larry Calloway, he was living with Patsy, but seeing another woman. It is believed that Vernon Gene used this article to lure Patsy away from her place of employment. With Patsy now in his control, he proceeded to murder her. Debra Calloway, Vernon Gene’s wife, facilitated the murder by dressing in a trench coat, and a wig to make her look like Patsy. She was seen walking down U.S. 231 in Beaver Dam, KY, shortly after Patsy went missing. This was to make it look like Patsy was upset about the marriage license and give the appearance of Patsy being distraught and walking away from her life. The same items Debra Calloway wore that day were seen at Debra’s home as testified to by a family member of Debra’s and Vernon’s. In court, Debra disputed that the purpose for wearing those was to appear to be Patsy, rather that her husband made her dress up in the wig and trench coat when he forced her to have sex with other men. Debra denied ever wearing those items on the day Patsy Calloway disappeared. She maintained in court that she believes Patsy Calloway just walked away from her life. She also said that she believed her husband Vernon Gene killed Patsy. As a journalist, my question is, “which one is it?” Either you believe your husband killed her or you believe she walked away from her life, or you’re lying.” Witnesses and family members of the defendant testified that Debra Calloway was there when the arson deal went down and also that she was seen cleaning out the back of her husband’s truck after Patsy’s murder. Vernon Gene’s brother Jimmy Calloway testified that he’d seen trash bags in the back of Gene’s truck. When he opened the trash bags, he testified that he saw Patsy Kessinger Calloway’s body. Her throat had been slashed. The witness also stated that Vernon Gene and Debra had not seen him looking in the bags. When asked why Jimmy Calloway waited so long to tell of his seeing her remains, he stated that he had to get it off of his chest. He also stated that he was in fear of Vernon Gene, his brother.

A confession letter was found in a box that was buried in Vernon Gene Calloway’s yard. It read, “I killed Patsy. No one had nothing to do with it but me. Not Debbie not nobody.” Several hand-drawn maps were also found relating to the case, identifying a farm of Calloway’s former employer. Family members made witness statements that contradicted the confession letter and the statements of the defendant, Debra Calloway, claiming that nobody else was involved. Prosecuting attorney Tim Coleman pointed out that Debra Calloway told several different versions of her accounts during testimony; of the day’s events that unfolded. Sgt. Bryan Whittaker testified that prior investigative work revealed that the carpet had been removed from Vernon Gene Calloway’s truck, and the truck was thoroughly cleaned, coinciding with Jimmy Calloway’s testimony. Jimmy Calloway testified that Debra had been seen cleaning out the back of the truck and removing carpet along with Vernon Gene on the day Patsy disappeared.

Suspect and admitted murderer Vernon Gene Calloway passed away on July 11, 2013 while awaiting trial for kidnapping; 1st degree premeditated murder; tampering with physical evidence and intimidating a witness in a legal process. All four are felonies. He passed away however, in hospice at his private home, after he was released on house arrest because of health issues. See related article.

Debra Calloway Mugshot courtesy of Ohio County PD

Today, Debra Calloway was found guilty of the crimes of facilitating murder for which she received a 5 year sentence; tampering with physical evidence in which she also received a 5 year sentence; and intimidation of a participant in the legal process for which she was sentenced to 1 year and a $500 fine, 11 years in total. Prior to sentencing, the judge gave Mrs. Calloway the opportunity to apologize or make a statement to the family of the victim to which she abstained from speaking. Prosecutor Coleman demanded a harsh sentencing due to her lack of remorse. Credit is given to Sargent Bryan Whittaker of the Kentucky State Police and Prosecuting Attorney Tim Coleman for their work on this long overdue case.

I spoke with Darrell Kessinger, the victim’s brother who’d relentlessly pursued justice for his sister for 21 years. Darrell states he and Patsy’s family are happy about the convictions. He said, “I’m happy, relieved, and exhausted. I just need to take a break for a bit. It’s been 21 years that I’ve been trying to get justice for my sister and I need to let it all settle in.” I asked Darrell about the recovery of his sister’s remains. He said, “well, a lot was brought out in court about her being buried up on Andy Anderson’s farm. I don’t know if they can get a warrant or not. We’ll see what happens, but that’s the last promise I made to my sister… to bring her home.”

Links to related articles here: http://missingpersonsnews.com/an-arson-a-wig-and-murder-no-justice-for-patsy-calloway/

http://missingpersonsnews.com/accused-murderer-leisurely-mows-his-lawn/

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/operation-cross-country-recovering-victims-of-child-sex-trafficking/

Operation Cross Country Recovering Victims of Child Sex Trafficking

By Shellee Hale, MPN Reporter

Washington DC (MPN) –

In many ways, Nicole was a typical teenager. In high school she tried cigarettes and alcohol, but she says, “I was pretty much a good kid. I didn’t really stay out late, I always came home, I never stole anything. I did what a lot of teenagers do.”

By age 17, however, things were deteriorating at home. Her parents were divorced, her father was absent, and she and her mother had an on-again, off-again relationship. That’s when Nicole met a man who took her shopping and showered her with attention. “He was gorgeous and he had charm,” she said. “I didn’t really think he was going to turn out to be…” Her voice trailed off as she tried to find words to describe Juan Vianez, the pimp who forced her into prostitution and later brutally beat her.

Being There for Victims

When the FBI investigates crimes, federal law requires that we offer assistance and services to victims. Through our Office for Victim Assistance, the Bureau has approximately 130 victim specialists working in every FBI field office in the country, and many of them regularly deal with children who have been sexually exploited.

While investigators on our Child Exploitation Task Forces make cases against pimps and others who commit violent crimes against children, victim specialists assess the needs of the young victims and help them get assistance and services. Often these specialists represent a lifeline to minors who have nowhere else to turn.

“A lot of these girls feel like they are stuck,” said Dani Geissinger-Rodarte, a victim specialist in our Seattle Division who has been working with sexually exploited children for more than a decade. “But I know that if they keep in touch with me, that somewhere down the road they are going to be ready for services, and we can connect them.”

“We can’t just make our case against the traffickers and not address the significant issues that face the victims,” said Special Agent Steve Vienneau, who works in our Violent Crimes Against Children Unit at FBI Headquarters. “If we fail to help these young people, they end up just as vulnerable or even more vulnerable to being trafficked again.”

Now 27, Nicole is one of countless young women victimized by child sex traffickers. But with the assistance of the FBI and our partners, she and other victims are turning their lives around—and helping to put hundreds of pimps behind bars.

Operation Cross Country, an annual law enforcement action that took place last week in 106 U.S. cities, highlights ongoing efforts by the Bureau—together with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners—to address the sexual exploitation of juveniles as part of our Innocence Lost National Initiative.

Since its creation in 2003, the Innocence Lost program has resulted in the identification and recovery of approximately 3,600 minors who have been sexually exploited. This year marks the eighth Operation Cross Country, the largest such enforcement action to date: 168 trafficking victims were recovered and 281 pimps were arrested.

“These are not children living in some faraway place, far from everyday life,” FBI Director James Comey said at a press conference today at FBI Headquarters. “These are our children. On our streets. Our truck stops. Our motels. These are America’s children.”

To address violent crimes against children, the FBI has established nearly 70 Child Exploitation Task Forces around the country, said Special Agent Steve Vienneau. Noting that the task forces rely on partnerships with all levels of law enforcement, Vienneau added, “the FBI could never succeed in this mission alone.” The task forces also include FBI victim specialists from our Office for Victim Assistance—men and women who play a key role in helping victims while their cases are being investigated and up to and beyond criminal prosecutions.

“We don’t enter any of our victims’ lives at a good time,” said Victim Specialist Dani Geissinger-Rodarte, who works in our Seattle Division and who was instrumental in helping Nicole get away from her pimp and later testify against him (Vianez is serving a 20-year jail term).

“A lot of victims of child prostitution have difficult backgrounds,” Geissinger-Rodarte explained, so victim specialists must assess the girls’ needs before they can begin to help them. “You start with the basics: Do you feel safe at home? Do you have clothing? What’s your interaction with your parents? You assess everything,” she said, “and then you make referrals to community service providers to fill that void or address those issues.”

Director Comey, speaking at the press conference, said, “The lesson of Operation Cross Country is that our children are not for sale. We will respond and crush these pimps who would crush these children.”

Sometimes, it’s not easy to convince young victims they need to get away from those who are exploiting them. Nicole, like many trafficked juveniles, was totally dependent on her pimp. “I didn’t have money, I didn’t have a house, I didn’t have a bank account, I didn’t have my own car,” she said. “I didn’t have anything. So if I left Juan, I left everything.”

In 2007, after a vicious beating that left her in the hospital with serious injuries, Nicole met Geissinger-Rodarte—and over time came to trust her. Eventually, Geissinger-Rodarte connected Nicole with community services and helped her to see there was a future beyond prostitution. “Our job is to meet the victim where they are,” said Geissinger-Rodarte. “When they are ready for help, they need to know we are there.”

Today, Nicole is an honors college student on her way to a psychology degree. She has a job, a driver’s license, a good credit rating, and she just bought a new car. “I am very, very proud of myself,” she said.

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/168-juveniles-recovered-in-nationwide-operation-targeting-commercial-child-sex-trafficking/

168 Juveniles Recovered in Nationwide Operation Targeting Commercial Child Sex Trafficking

BY: Shellee Hale, MPN Reporter

Washington DC (MPN) –

During the past week, the FBI; its local, state, and federal law enforcement partners; and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) conducted Operation Cross Country VIII, a week-long enforcement action to address commercial child sex trafficking throughout the United States. This operation included enforcement actions in 106 cities across 54 FBI field divisions nationwide and resulted in 168 recoveries of children who were being victimized through prostitution. Additionally, 281 pimps were arrested on state and federal charges.

“Targeting and harming America’s children through commercial sex trafficking is a heinous crime, with serious consequences,” said FBI Director James B. Comey. “Every child deserves to be safe and sound. Through targeted measures like Operation Cross Country, we can end the cycle of victimization.”

“Child sex traffickers create a living nightmare for their adolescent victims,” said Leslie R. Caldwell, Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice. “They use fear and force and treat children as commodities of sex to be sold again and again. This operation puts traffickers behind bars and rescues kids from their nightmare so they can start reclaiming their childhood.”

Operation Cross Country is part of the Innocence Lost National Initiative that was established in 2003 by the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, in partnership with the Department of Justice and NCMEC, to address the growing problem of child prostitution.

“Operation Cross Country reveals that children are being targeted and sold for sex in America every day,” said John Ryan, President and CEO of NCMEC. “We’re proud to partner with the FBI and provide support to both law enforcement and victim specialists in the field as they help survivors take that first step toward freedom.”

To date, the FBI and its task force partners have recovered nearly 3,600 children from the streets. The investigations and subsequent 1,450 convictions have resulted in lengthy sentences, including 14 life terms and the seizure of more than $3.1 million in assets.

Task force operations usually begin as local enforcement actions that target truck stops, casinos, street “tracks,” and websites that advertise dating or escort services, based on intelligence gathered by officers working in their respective jurisdictions. Initial arrests are often violations of local and state laws relating to prostitution or solicitation. Information gleaned from those arrested frequently uncovers organized efforts to prostitute women and children across many states. FBI agents further develop this evidence in partnership with U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section so that prosecutors can help bring federal charges in those cities where child prostitution occurs.

The Innocence Lost National Initiative partners with NCMEC to provide training for state and federal law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and social service providers from across the country.

The FBI thanks its local, state, and federal law enforcement partners representing 392 separate agencies for their ongoing enforcement efforts and participation in Operation Cross Country VIII.

The following list denotes FBI divisions, not necessarily actual cities, where juveniles were recovered and pimps were arrested.

FBI Division Juveniles Recovered Pimps Arrested Albany 0 0 Albuquerque 0 0 Anchorage 0 3 Atlanta 11 15 Baltimore 2 5 Birmingham 1 3 Boston 0 0 Buffalo 2 0 Charlotte 0 3 Chicago 13 4 Cincinnati 0 1 Cleveland 16 12 Columbia 1 2 Dallas 2 2 Denver 18 11 Detroit 5 6 El Paso 0 1 Houston 4 4 Indianapolis 4 3 Jackson 2 19 Jacksonville 0 1 Kansas City 2 7 Knoxville 0 1 Las Vegas 7 2 Little Rock 2 5 Los Angeles 10 12 Louisville 0 4 Memphis 2 5 Miami 3 4 Milwaukee 6 12 Minneapolis 1 9 Mobile 0 0 Newark 1 8 New Haven 1 1 New Orleans 3 17 New York 3 3 Norfolk 0 1 Oklahoma City 2 14 Omaha 1 2 Philadelphia 0 2 Phoenix 5 21 Pittsburgh 0 3 Portland 1 2 Richmond 0 2 Sacramento 9 7 Salt Lake City 0 0 San Antonio 6 3 San Diego 2 6 San Francisco 6 13 Seattle 4 13 Springfield 2 1 St. Louis 0 1 Tampa 8 3 Washington 0 2 Total 168 281

#FBI Sex trafficking

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/fbi-child-exploitation-task-force-and-local-partners-recover-minor-victim-in-sex-trafficking-sting/

FBI Child Exploitation Task Force and Local Partners Recover Minor Victim in Sex Trafficking Sting

BY: Shellee Hale, MPN Reporter

Portland (MPN) — The FBI, local law enforcement partners, and victim service agencies from throughout the region joined forces to launch multi-day undercover operations targeting child sex trafficking operations in the Portland metro and Eugene areas. These operations, which ran June 18 to June 22, resulted in the recovery of one minor child and the identification of 20 adult prostitutes. Many of the adults had been trafficked since they were 13 or 14 years old. The Oregon FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force (CETF) conducted these stings in conjunction with a national weeklong event, Operation Cross Country VIII, which included enforcement actions in 54 FBI field offices and 106 cities across the United States.

Law enforcement and social service providers worked with each victim to provide counseling, mental health services, medical assistance, housing, and advocacy resources to them. Due to the sensitive nature of these cases, there will be no further details released about the minor child sex trafficking victim.

As part of Operation Cross Country VIII, local police arrested three traffickers on state charges. Those arrested include:

Joseph McKenzie, age 41 , charged with promoting prostitution (arrested by Portland Police Bureau)

Courtney L. Milan , age 23, charged with promoting prostitution (arrested by Beaverton Police Department)

Alexandra R. Roberts, age 22, charged with promoting prostitution (arrested by Eugene Police Department)

In addition to the minor victim, local police cited 20 adult women on prostitution charges. Victim specialists offered all of these women the opportunity to access help through law enforcement victim service programs and the social service partners.

“Sex traffickers are selling kids—our kids—every day in motels, on the street and in our neighborhoods for sex. Over time, the children age into adulthood—but the impact of this victimization continues for each of them, their families, and the community as a whole,” said Greg Bretzing, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Oregon. “The FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force brings together our agents, local law enforcement, and passionate community advocates. They are doing great work—not just during Operation Cross Country stings, but every day, pulling children out of horrendously violent and abusive situations. They cannot do their jobs, though, without the help of concerned parents, teachers, and community members.”

If you suspect that a child is being sexually exploited, please call your nearest FBI office or local law enforcement agency immediately.

In the course of—but unrelated to—the undercover stings, officers and agents came into contact with a four-year-old child living with a non-custodial parent. That child was placed in state custody, and local police arrested the parent on outstanding warrants.

Background Information

This is the eighth Operation Cross Country event that the FBI has coordinated since 2008.

In seven previous Operation Cross Country events, local, state and federal law enforcement agencies joined together to recover 434 child victims and arrest 581 pimps nationwide.

In Oregon, the FBI participated in Operations III to VII, leading to the recovery of a total of 20 local minor victims during those specific operations.

Operation Cross Country is part of the Innocence Lost National Initiative, established in 2003 by the FBI, the Department of Justice and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Since 2003, the FBI and its task force partners have recovered a total of more than 3,500 children throughout the U.S.

Since 2003, the task force investigations have led to total of 1,450 convictions and resulted in many lengthy sentences, including 14 life terms.

More information on recent Oregon cases and convictions can be found here.

Partnerships

Locally, the FBI would like to thank the full-time members of the Child Exploitation Task Force as well as the other agencies and departments who took part in the law enforcement portion of the Operation Cross Country VIII sting:

FBI Child Exploitation Task Force Members:

Portland Police Bureau

Beaverton Police Department

Tigard Police Department

Vancouver Police Department

Other participating agencies:

Eugene Police Department

Hillsboro Police Department

Troutdale Police Department

Washington County Sheriff’s Office

Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office

Metro Gang Task Force (MGTF)

Interagency Gang Enforcement Team (IGET)

Prostitution Enforcement Team

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

Washington County District Attorney’s Office

Lane County District Attorney’s Office

United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon

Task force operations such as this one usually begin with the development of information that a pimp is trafficking a minor. That information can come from parents, concerned citizens, local law enforcement or other sources. In many cases, the trafficker is posting photos or other details about the minor on websites that cater to men wanting to schedule meets. (We will not release the specific locations or methods utilized in this local operation due to ongoing investigative interests.)

These cases are jointly investigated by FBI agents and local law enforcement. As the case progresses, the investigators and prosecutors work together to determine whether state or federal charges are most appropriate.

The charges filed in this operation are merely accusations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Social service and non-profit agencies who provided assistance during Operation Cross Country VIII locally include:

LifeWorks NW

Sexual Assault Resource Center (SARC)

Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS)

Beaverton Police Department Victim Services

Multnomah County Department of Human Service/Child Protective Services

Multnomah County Department of Community Justice

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office Victim Services

Washington County Department of Human Services/Child Protective Services

Washington County Juvenile Department

Lane County Department of Youth Services

Lane County District Attorney’s Office of Victim Services

Lane County Department of Human Services/Child Protective Services

United States Attorney’s Office Victim Assistance Program

The FBI would like to thank all law enforcement and social service provider agencies for taking part in Operation Cross Country VIII and for their ongoing work with the Child Exploitation Task Force.

For more information on the law enforcement and social service provider partnerships providing assistance to these victims, please visit:

Protecting Our Children: Child Exploitation Task Force Making an Impact

Multnomah County Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children

Sexual Assault Resource Center (SARC) of Oregon

Janus Youth Program

Lifeworks NW

Additional information about Operation Cross Country VIII:

Operation Cross Country VIII national press release

Related FBI Portland story

Hear a Pacific Northwest survivor’s story in her own words

An FBI victim specialist speaks about the challenges sex trafficking victims face

#child sex trafficking #FBI

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/suspect-identified-in-lyons-sisters-disappearance/

Suspect Identified in Lyons Sisters Disappearance

By: Shellee Hale, MPN Reporter

[email protected]

Montgomery County (MPN) –Joint Press Release: FBI and Montgomery County Police Department

The Montgomery County Police Department-Cold Case Squad and FBI Agents in the Baltimore Division have named a person of interest in the disappearance of sisters Sheila and Katherine Lyon from a popular suburban Washington D.C. shopping center in 1975. Investigators say Lloyd Lee Welch, dob: 12/30/1956, aka: Michael Welch, was noticed paying attention to the sisters the afternoon they disappeared.

Sheila and Katherine were last seen just after 2:00 p.m., walking between Wheaton Plaza (now Westfield Wheaton) and their home, only half a mile away. Their mother told them to be home by 4:00 that afternoon, but they never returned. They disappeared without a trace, and have not been heard from since.

Welch, a convicted sex offender, has been in prison in Delaware since 1997. He traveled extensively throughout the U.S. from the 70’s through the mid 90’s. Welch worked as a ride operator for a carnival company, often set up at malls. He was arrested in several states, charged with sexual offenses against young girls. There may be victims who have not come forward.

Original Missing Person/Suspicious Circumstances Bulletin

“We have all been haunted by the disappearance of the Lyon sisters. Even though so much time has passed, we have not forgotten that those young girls deserve justice, and their family deserves closure. We’re hoping one of you has information that will help us provide both,” said Montgomery County Police Chief Thomas Manger.

Montgomery County Police mugshot of Lloyd Welch, 1977. Welch was arrested for a residential burglary near Wheaton Plaza.

“We understand we’re asking people to think back several decades to remember details they may not think matter. However, the information you provide could be vital in our search for evidence, and put to rest difficult questions for the Lyon family and for any other victims who may exist,” said Steve Vogt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Maryland.

Anyone who may have encountered Michael Welch is asked to call investigators at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or they can submit a tip online at: http://tips.fbi.gov.

Please review the informational package and photographs below. Anyone with information is asked to call investigators at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or they can submit a tip online at: http://tips.fbi.gov.

Click here for Informational Package – Important Facts in Lyon Sisters Investigation

Undated photo of Lloyd Welch (person of interest) and girlfriend, Helen Craver.

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/14-year-old-brandi-bright-reported-missing-in-covington-kentucky-findbrandibright/

14 year old Brandi Bright Reported Missing in Covington Kentucky #FindBrandiBright

Brandi Bright, 14 Missing Covington KY

BY: Teressa Bee, MPN Contributor

Covington, Kentucky — (MPN) Covington authorities and the Center for Search & Investigations are seeking public assistance in locating Brandi Bright, a 14 year old female, who was last seen on December 21, 2013 at her residence in Covington, Kentucky.

” Bright is described as 5’6″ in height and 123 pounds, with long curly brown hair and hazel eyes. She is a beloved daughter and sister with friends and family that are pleading with the public to help bring her home. ”

If anyone has any information leading to Brandi’s location, please contact with any information:

Detective Mangus with the Covington Police Department at (859) 356-3191, Private Investigator Dan Washington at (502) 722-8181

CFSI Founder/CEO Chuck Foreman at (512) 644-9856

For more information about Center for Search & Investigations please visit: www.cfsimissing.com CFSI Kentucky for Missing Children www.facebook.com/CFSIKentuckyforMissingChildren

#Brandi Bright #Covington #missing teen

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/monica-helberg-16-missing-from-moses-lake-wa-urgent-helpusfindmonica/

Monica Helberg, 16 Missing from Moses Lake WA URGENT #HelpusfindMonica

BY: MPN Breaking News Desk

GRANT COUNTY, Wash. (MPN) -Deputies in Grant County say 16-year-old Monica Helberg of Royal City in Grant County has been missing since January 8th and is believed to be with 22-year-old Miles “Logan” Moncada.

Authorities say they have no evidence Helberg has been abducted by Moncada. Family members are concerned that she may have be coerced into leaving by Moncada.

Moncada was last seen Saturday night at a motel in Albuquerque New Mexico. When police arrived, the motel room was empty but they did find black hair dye and disposable razors leading officers to believe either one or both have changed their appearance. Helberg, 16 was not seen at the motel. Authorities say Moncada has family in Crystal City (Zavala County) Texas, and he may be heading that way, but has also lived in Lancaster CA. Helberg’s family believes she is in danger and are visibly shaken and concerned for her safety.

The missing teen is described as: white with brown hair and brown eyes. She weighs approximately 140 pounds and is about 5’7.

Moncada is described as white with brown hair and brown eyes. He weighs approximately 165 pounds and is about 6’1.

Moncada is said to be driving a 2014 yellow Ford Focus with a Washington state license plate # ANR8440.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/monicafind If you see either of these people, contact police immediately by calling 911. The all-volunteer organization CFSI, Center for Search & Investigations For Missing Children is working with the family to locate and safely recovery their daughter Monica Helberg. The lead Washington State PI is Shellee Hale and she can be reached at 425-246-9136 or 425-450-9000. Any and all tips are taken and investigated.

#Monica Helberg

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/searching-for-endangered-bothell-teen-mia-palmer-16-findmiapalmer/

Searching for Endangered Bothell Teen Mia Palmer, 16 #findmiapalmer

Mia Palmer

By: Shellee Hale, MPN Reporter [email protected]

Bothell WA (MPN) A current search is ongoing for missing 16 year old Mia Palmer from Bothell, WA. Mia Palmer was last seen on December 31, 2013. She is described as being 5’1″ tall and weighing 115 lbs with hazel eyes and brown, dyed black hair.

If you have any information or knowledge of Mia Palmer’s whereabouts you are asked to contact the Snohomish Sheriff Department at 425-388-3393 or Private Investigator Shellee Hale at 425-246-9136

Mia Palmer’s family is desperate to find their daughter and bring her home safely. The public’s cooperation in helping to locate her will be greatly appreciated. Mia Palmer was last seen wearing a black skirt with skulls on it, black boots and is likely wearing a green army coat with a large peace symbol on the back. she was carrying a silver messenger bag and a military style briefcase. She was supposed to meet a friend at Floral Hills but never showed up! Her phone was left at home so no one can call her.

Wendy Palmer misses her daughter so much and is waiting home for her to come home safely.

Missing person FB group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1434104436819845/

Mia Palmer, 16 Missing from Bothell WA

#bothell #help find mia palmer #Mia Palmer #missing teen

New Post has been published on http://missingpersonsnews.com/police-assistance-needed-in-locating-missing-woman-crystal-friedman/

Police Assistance Needed in Locating Missing Woman, Crystal Friedman

Crystal Friedman – MISSING URGENT

By: Shellee Hale, MPN Reporter

Slidell (MPN) — St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in locating a missing Slidell-area woman. Crystal Friedman was reported missing on Monday, Dec. 9. Her family reported last having contact with her on Sunday night, Dec. 8th. She was driving her 2011 silver Hynudai Sanota four-door sedan bearing Louisiana license plate VIH-727. She was last seen on surveillance video at a gas station in Slidell. They also have video of her car heading toward the Pontchartrain bridge at 11:49 towards New Orleans, but can’t be sure it was her driving.

Anyone with information about Crystal Friedman’s whereabouts is asked to call 911 or Detective Steve Chiasson at 726-7824

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