Update- January 5, 2010-For several months entertainer, Gary Fields, the GodFather of Comedy has offered to host for the Marshall family an event on behalf their missing daughter, Mary Denise Lands. Plans are now about to be finalized for a Valentine's Day holiday weekend program to be held at GodFather's Pizza/Ball Joint in Battle Creek. You may recall, the owner of this establishment, Dick Johnson hosted the 1st "Ride for Mary" motorcycle run, which was held in August 2007 to promote public awareness for Mary's disappearance. On March 12, 2009 she will have been missing for 6 years. Tickets for the Valentine's Day Tribute to Mary will be available for $10.00 per person, and the proceeds will go to the Mary Lands Trust Fund. The event will be held on Saturday, February 13, 2009 from 6:00-8:00 P.M. We will keep you posted as the details are finalized. We hope our friends and supporters will join us for a great evening of fun and comedy. Come out and visit Cliff & Anita. Tickets are now available and can be delivered, if requested.Contact- Cliff & Anita Marshall, 269.781.4508 or Jim Carlin, 269.753.1181, Email- JustinianLaw@sbcglobal.net
Battle Creek Enquirer Story & Photographs- January 5, 2010- Gary Fields' Regular Blues Jams have Returned
From 7 to 11 p.m. tonight and every Tuesday night, blues musicians are invited to jam with house musicians at the Ball Joint, 4720 Beckley Road, the legendary Battle Creek restaurateur, comedy host and music enthusiast Gary Fields announced today. There is no cover charge and all are invited to play, Fields said. Also available tonight will be Fields' staple chicken wings. The blues and wings were a staple at Fields' comedy club downtown, the only place which regularly hosted blues musicians, until the club closed in October. "It's been going real well," Fields said. "We're even thinking about starting up the Monday night bike nights down here."
BREAKING NEWS- The Michigan Court of Appeals in a 9-page decision affirmed all the charges and the convictions of Christopher Luke Pratt. The full decision may be read at http://coa.courts.mi.gov/documents/OPINIONS/FINAL/COA/20090611_C284299_48_284299.OPN.PDF The decision at the end read; In our view, the trial court did not abuse its discretion in considering the entire course of conduct beginning before and continuing through the unlawful imprisonment when scoring OV; The trial court considered the entire course of events during the 15 or 20 minute incident, during which defendant, who was over six feet tall and weighed approximately 300 pounds, demanded that the victim, who was five feet, two inches tall and weighed just over 100 pounds, give him the cordless telephone; slammed the telephone on the ground, telling her that she would never discover who he was talking to; informed her that he cheated on her and laughed; grabbed her in a bear hug, lifting her feet from the ground, and squeezed her so hard that he cut her finger on her ring; cursed at her and used derogatory names; pulled down a baker’s rack full of items that scattered near the victim; ripped the telephone cord out of the wall when the victim ran to the telephone and tried to use it; and pushed the microwave oven off of the kitchen counter near her feet. When the victim then attempted to run out of the house, defendant grabbed her keys, threw them outside, blocked the doorway and restrained her. He then left in his truck when she told her son to call the police. 7. The threatening, anxiety-producing conduct continued throughout the commission of all the crimes, including the unlawful imprisonment. Under the facts of this case, the fear and anxiety during the short time of the unlawful imprisonment could not be separated from the incident. In the present case, the trial court did not abuse its discretion in determining that defendant’s conduct was designed to substantially increase the fear and anxiety the victim suffered during the unlawful imprisonment. Affirmed. /s/ Karen M. Fort Hood /s/ Mark J. Cavanagh /s/ Kirsten Frank Kelly
June 2, 2009- People of the State of Michigan v. Christopher Luke Pratt was the first case called this morning at 10:00 A.M. in the Hall of Justice, Michigan Court of Appeals. The 3 judge panel included Judge Karen M Fort Hood, PJ, Judge Mark J Cavanagh and Judge Kirsten Frank Kelly, JJ. Presiding Judge Fort made an opening statement that all the judges were very familiar with each of the cases being called and she asked that the attorneys be brief and to the point. Present in the room were approximately 12 other attorneys for various cases, and several spectators. About 10 minutes before court commenced Jeff Pratt and his mother, Louise Pratt showed up. Jeff was dressed more for a night of drinking at his Moose Lodge than for what would be appropriate attire for such an esteemed judicial proceeding. A representative from the Calhoun County Prosecutor’s Office was present however the actual oral argument was conducted by a special prosecutor from Kent County, Timothy K. McMorrow. He is chief appellate attorney for the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office. No attorney was present on behalf of Chris Pratt and presumably written arguments had already been submitted to the court. Inmate Pratt also was not present for the hearing. The Pratt matter took exactly 2 minutes and the presiding judge then called the next case. After the hearing was closed Jeff Pratt appeared visibly upset, dismayed and perplexed and started a conversation with Mr. McMorrow. He did not realize he was speaking to the prosecutor and not his brother’s attorney. He asked, What happens now? Jeff did not appear to be in a very happy mood when he left the building. In my opinion, it will be approximately a month before Inmate Christopher Luke Pratt will be sitting in his Level IV cell at St. Louis Correctional Facility and learn that all his convictions were affirmed by the Michigan Court of Appeals. You may follow the appellate process online- http://coa.courts.mi.gov/resources/asp/viewdocket.asp?casenumber=284299&fparties=&inqtype=public&yr=0
At the entrance of the massive Michigan Hall of Justice there are four words etched in marble; Freedom, Truth, Equality and Justice. These concepts, the foundations of our constitution, invite reflection by all who enter. Let it be known that each member of the Pratt kin should also reflect. They should reflect on the fact that Christopher Luke Pratt, now Inmate Pratt #673261 was properly and appropriately convicted for violent felony crimes in Calhoun County against a former girl friend. He is a criminal perpetrator of domestic violence who enjoys battering women. He battered his first wife, he battered Mary Denise Lands, and he battered a more recent girl-friend. He is not going to batter anyone else for 15 years. http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261 The Pratt family should now be thinking about the crimes committed against Mary Denise Lands. Their family can help bring Mary home and contribute to some type of closure for all involved in this horrific tragedy. Sooner or later it is going to happen. Jeff Pratt and others would be wise to convince their family member to do the right thing. The Marshall family is not going to go away until they can bring their daughter home to her final resting place. You'll see us at vigils, events, court hearings and every single parole hearing for Inmate Pratt until 2022. We will vehemently oppose any parole for your family member. Instead of all your denials that Inmate Pratt had anything to do with Mary's disappearance and murder you should put more effort into having someone step up to the plate and admits their responsibility. The Marshall family have suffered enough and you can make this come to an end. Do the right thing and do it now. Jim Carlin Justinian Investigative Services 269.963.7068 Email- JustinianLaw@sbcglobal.net
June 1, 2009-It was just confirmed that Inmate Christopher Luke Pratt has had yet another change and a move in his prison status. He went from a Level II at Pine River Correctional Facility to Level IV at St. Louis Correctional Facility. Level IV is for inmates requiring close custody. Keep those letters coming to the Parole Board and MDOC. They do have an influence and we need to keep this inmate in prison until 2022 or until he is charged in the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands. May 27, 2009- Inmate Pratt was just transferred from Mound Correctional Facility in Detroit to Pine River Correctional Facility in Gratiot County, St. Louis, Michigan. The facility has expanded to include Level II prisoners and Inmate Pratt remains at Level II. He will be eligible for parole the first time in February 2012, however because of the nature of his felony domestic violence crimes against another former girl-friend he cannot be released by MDOC prior to that date. In January 2008 Calhoun County Circuit Judge Stephen Miller sentenced him to 5-15 years. http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261 Inmate Pratt has now been incarcerated for nearly 24 months. He did received credit for his county jail time while awaiting trial and has been in custody since June 24, 2007. Before you know it, he will be considered for parole. We expect that charges will be brought against the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands within a short time. In the interim, we must do everything we can to assure that Inmate Pratt is never paroled. Every citizen has the right to provide their input to the MDOC Parole Board concerning the possible parole of any inmate. You are not required to live in Michigan. All one has to do is complete a Crime Victim Notification Request Form and send it to Crime Victim Services in Lansing. After your name and address is placed in their confidential records you will be notified of inmate transfers and pending parole hearings. You have the right to respond with your position in opposing or favoring a parole of any inmate. The Parole Board takes every one of these letters from victims and concerned citizens into consideration so it is important that you express your opinion. The inmate does not view these letters nor are they aware of your identity so your safety and confidentiality is guaranteed. I know this system works because in the last several years I have submitted letters of opposition on other inmates and they remain in prison. MDOC Victim Services- Inmate Notification Request Form http://www.michigan.gov/documents/CrimeVictimNotificationRequest090402_57232_7.pdf To complete the form, include the inmate's name and MDOC number. Fill in the section with your information (victim), sign, and mail or fax to MDOC Crime Victim Services. If you are not the victim there is a box you can check as "a concerned citizen". It does not matter what your your relationship is to any inmate. Any person has the right to express their opinions on why an inmate should or should not be granted the privilege of parole. Our community is at risk if Inmate Christopher Luke Pratt is released. Not only is he an eminent threat to his previous victims but he is a threat to others. Because of the nature of his crimes he should remain in prison until the expiration of his sentence in 2022. You can help make that happen. We now have a large number of people on record who have sent in their notification forms to MDOC so they will be able to make their opinions known to the Parole Board. Our hope is that when Inmate Pratt’s parole hearing is scheduled that we will have 1,000 letters sent to the Parole Board opposing his release. You can help keep this vicious criminal in jail until 2022 or until there might be other action by law enforcement for allegations of other crimes. If you need help completing the form, please feel free to call and I would even be glad to personally deliver the notification form if requested. I have a considerable amount of them available and pass them out on a daily basis to those who are interested. Help the Marshall family keep this evil person in prison. Had he been sent there years ago for his pattern of violence Mary Denise Lands would be alive today. The forms may also be obtained by contacting MDOC Crime Victim Services. Their office has an outstanding professional staff that wants to help and answer all your questions.
Michigan Department of Corrections Crime Victim Services PO Box 30003 Lansing, Michigan 48909
March 29, 2009- Today we spoke with an official from Texas Equusearch, the respected and renowned mounted search and recovery organization located in Texas. They have just posted a link on Mary's disappearance. Be sure to view their own site and the great work they are doing for missing persons.
Thursday, March 12, 2009 marked the 5th anniversary of the disappearance of Mary Denise Lands, and the family will hold another vigil at the Brooks Memorial Circle Fountain at Noon in Marshall, Michigan. Each year on March 12th since Mary purportedly walked away from her apartment Cliff & Anita Marshall have held a vigil on this date. Mary's fiancé, Christopher Luke Pratt claims she went for a walk at 10:00 P.M. on a cold wintry night still wearing her light-weight medical scrubs from her job at Day One Family Healthcare in Battle Creek. He claimed she walked off wearing her favorite brown leather jacket and left her new Dodge Durango and cell telephone at the apartment. 44 hours later Chris Pratt called the family in California asking if Mary was there? The parents then notified the Marshall Police Department that their daughter was missing. Five months later in the summer of 2004 Chris Pratt was selling Mary's personal property including her brown leather jacket at a flea market in Homer. The jacket was recovered and turned over to the Marshall Police Department. A new reward was recently reinstated in Mary’s case and the law enforcement community is working aggressively to solve the case. Christopher Luke Pratt is now serving a 5-15 year sentence for a violent assault against a more recent girl-friend. His earliest possible parole eligibility date is February 2012. http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261Chris Pratt has been named a suspect in the open homicide investigation of Mary Lands, but has not yet been charged. He was incarcerated by MDOC at the Mound Correctional Facility in Detroit. March 12, 2009- 9:00 A.M.- Well this is not a good sign and obviously came on a sad day for the family, the 5th anniversary of Mary's disappearance. Chris Pratt was just moved from Level II at Mound Correctional Facility in Detroit to Cooper Street Correctional Facility in Jackson. He was reduced to the minimum standard of MDOC and reclassified as Level I. Next we will hear that because of prisons closing and staff reductions he will soon be released. Because his convictions were related to domestic violence he should not be eligible for parole until February 2012. You have to wonder if that criteria enacted by the Michigan legislature will be thrown out and he is looking at a release in the very near future? Norreen Parker, his most recent victim, better be concerned about these new developments.
March 12, 2009- 5:00 P.M.- Thank you to all the good people who today called MDOC, the police and the media about Christopher Luke Pratt being transferred to Cooper Street CF in Jackson and a reduction of his Level II to Level I. It just shows the power of our community. Inmate Pratt will be shuffling off to another prison and his Level II status will be put back in place. Maybe if we are lucky it will be the UP for the rest of the winter.Thank you again to WOOD-TV8 and the viewers for all the calls. It really gave some relief to Mary's parents to know we all will be safer. Kudos to our community to keep this alleged killer in a more secure location. In my opinion, I believe he killed Mary Lands and so does the law enforcement community. Chris Pratt needs to remain in prison for the rest of his life unless he makes a deal and tells the truth. It better be soon because some other perp is going to drop a dime on him first.
March 13, 2009- 7:45 A.M-Within 24 hours of MDOC learning that Christopher Luke Pratt is an inmate who is a suspect in an open homicide investigation his classification was changed back to a Level II. Cooper Street Correctional Facility in Jackson is a Level I facility so we presume he will be transferred to a Level II correctional facility. There is a saying that the wheels of justice turn slow, but grind exceedingly fine. Chris Pratt, you can try to use your sociopathic charm on prison officials, family and friends to believe that all this is going to go away and you will soon be free. In your deluded thinking you feel no remorse or empathy, but that is just another symptom of your mental defects. People know what you did to Mary Lands and one day you will allocute in a court of law and be held accountable for Mary’s disappearance and death. You have seen our billboards and efforts to find Mary. Your earliest possible parole date is February 24, 2012. Let me assure you that we presently have at least 220 individuals who will be writing the Parole Board to ask that you not be released until your scheduled discharge date in 2022. By the time of your review in 2011 we will have at least 1,000 letters sent to Lansing opposing any release. We are not going away, and we will bring Mary home.
Update, March 16, 2009-"Top of the morn'in to you all". As we have previously mentioned, there is a saying that the wheels of justice turn slow, but grind exceedingly fine.This morning, Christopher Luke Pratt, Inmate # 673261 is now back at his old digs in Level II, Mound Correctional Facility in Detroit after a brief transfer to Cooper Street Correctional Facility in Jackson that MDOC acknowledges was an error. His minimal status to Level I has also been changed back to Level II. Happy trails Christopher, & Happy St. Patrick's Day. Welcome back to the Mound! Jim Carlin
In a very personal and poignant 6-page letter to Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox, Clifford & Anita Marshall expressed their years of anguish and frustration concerning the conduct of certain officers in the Marshall Police Department, and a lack of progress in Mary's case. They respectfully requested that the Michigan Attorney General take over jurisdiction of Mary's investigation.
Among numerous issues, their letter described how they were improperly humiliated, subjected to crude comments about DNA, and learned that MPD officers laughed and ridiculed Mary’s case. One senior officer told a family member, "Mary is like an old pair of shoes, she will be back". No official search of Mary's Waldon Pond apartment was made until December 8, 2004, 9 months later. The Michigan State Police requested the search warrant on December 7, 2004. It was approved by a magistrate on the same date, and executed on December 8, 2004.
In October 2006 it was claimed by MPD that Mary's Dodge Durango was being held as evidence although it was stored outside in open public view for over 2 1/2 years at Bud's Towing on 15 Mile Road in Marshall, Michigan. http://justiceformary.blogspot.com/2006/10/if-this-is-secured-evidence-at.html The vehicle was not secured, left unlocked, and could never be considered a piece of evidence in any court of law. When the family asked for the vehicle to be returned it was secretly moved. To this date it is retained at an unknown location and purportedly classified by former Chief Mike Olsen as "evidence" in Mary's case. After questions from the family, Vic Potter, owner of the towing company relinquished his claims for storage and moving charges related to the vehicle. It could appear that Mary's vehicle was not being held for evidence, but to build up storage fees that were in the thousands of dollars. Chase Bank or the Marshall family would have to pay the charges. This could be construed as a larceny by conversion scheme and fraud. The present bill was for a significant amount of money and appeared to be more of an extortion attempt, and one that was condoned by MPD. A Garage Keeper or Mechanic’s lien could be placed on the vehicle and there is no doubt that the bank not willing to pay the high costs and losing more money would sign over the vehicle title to the towing company. It could then be sold by the business for a considerable profit. The family doesn’t believe that this would even be a valid option under the law, but who knows? We are dealing with the Marshall Police Department and they do what they want, not necessarily what is legal and proper. It was the intent of the family that if the vehicle could be released a new loan could be signed with Chase Bank by the Marshall's. The bank would be satisfied and Cliff & Anita would have returned to their possession one of the few remaining possessions of their daughter. During this time the family made several inquiries with the local Chase Bank and the bank contacted MPD. Chase was advised that the vehicle is being held as evidence.
When further questioned about the facts related to the total bill and the "evidence" status of the Durango, who, what, when, and where it was moved, Mr. Potter stated he no longer has any connection to the Durango and does not know where it is presently stored. Shaking his hands, he advised, "I have nothing more to do with that Dodge Durango and there is no money owed to me on Mary's vehicle". For nearly 4 years and 9 months Mary's vehicle has been in the possession of MPD for no apparent legal reason. At least we hope it is in their possession.
Update- December 2, 2008-Chase Bank today contacted MPD & Sgt. McDonald inquiring on the status of Mary’s vehicle? He advised the bank recovery official vehicle that the vehicle has always been held as evidence and it will not be released. It was reported the wheels were off it and the vehicle is under a covering. When asked about a time frame for the possible release, he replied, not any time soon. Chase Bank appreciated learning the information on the location of Mary's vehicle. They were totally unaware of what had taken place? The department handling the loan had no idea Mary was a missing persons, and the loan was written off in 2004. Although Sgt. McDonald claims that someone from Chase calls every six months they had no record in the file that the vehicle was even in the possession of the MPD. Chase asked MPD to keep them advised on the vehicle as they wish to take possession.
Christopher Luke Pratt reported that Mary Denise Lands walked away from their Waldon Pond Townhouse in Marshall on March 12, 2004 wearing medical scrubs and her brown leather jacket. The same leather jacket was recovered from a Homer flea market, 5 months later in the summer of 2004. It was personally being sold by Christopher Pratt with Mary’s other property. The flea-market booth was actually rented in the name of Ken Piski. Mr. Piske resides just east of the Pratt family residence in Albion. He is a close friend of Christopher Pratt and his brother, Jeff Pratt. After the jacket was recovered Christopher Pratt put up a sign at his booth for the remaining property- "Free". He then left the flea-market.
The jacket was immediately brought to the Marshall Police Department, but they took no action. Instead of officers being dispatched to the flea market to verify the situation MPD wanted Cliff Marshall to go there and retrieve any other property. Mr. Marshall told MPD that it was not his job to accomplish, it was a job for police investigators.
In June 2006 the family was investigated for an alleged home invasion, burglary and theft of Mary’s former residence after it was vacated by Mr. Pratt. He signed a criminal complaint after a 90-minute interview with Sgt. Rebecca Ivey, and within a day Cliff & Anita were advised to come into the police department for questioning. The Marshall's were suspects in felony crimes along with others. They complied and after meeting with Sgt. Ivey were asked to waive their Miranda Rights. They declined and requested to speak with an attorney, as did their private investigator on June 19, 2006. The Marshall's were then released. An interesting point during this time is that Chief Mike Olson told the Marshall's "with a wink and a nod" this is nothing, just forget about it. Although the management of Waldon Pond Townhouse was present and granted permission for the family to enter the vacant apartment, Sgt. Rebecca Ivey of the MPD still requested criminal warrants from the prosecutor for these serious felony crimes. The FOIA documentation on this incident includes a very candid hand-written 6-page statement from Debra Farrington, leasing manager of Waldon Pond. The FOIA response did not include a signed waiver of her rights although she was clearly a suspect in these crimes, and she was one of the four persons that Sgt. Ivey wished to charge with the felony offenses. The warrant requests were issued on June 22, 2006. On July 5, 2006 the warrant requests were denied by the Calhoun County Prosecutor's Office against all the persons involved. (FOIA documentation on this incident)- Christopher Luke Pratt, Complainant (06/19/2006) to MPD, 0906-2060- FOIA Request by Jim Carlin- Sgt. Rebecca Ivey requested warrants for home invasion, burglary, & theft allegedly committed by Cliff & Anita Marshall, Jim Carlin & Debra Farrington Note: Supervisor Sgt. Rebecca Ivey was demoted to patrol officer by former Chief Mike Olsen prior to his firing or resignation in January 2008. However, it is believed her demotion in 2007 had nothing to do with the Mary Lands case, especially since Chief Olsen and other police management would have had to approve and sign off on of Sgt. Ivey's warrant requests. A FOIA request was submitted to the City of Marshall on her demotion but it was denied by City Manager Chris Olson because a grievance action was pending.
Update- December 2, 2008-Another FOIA Request was submitted to the City of Marshall on Sgt. Rebecca Ivey's demotion to patrtol officer. Information has been rceived was that there is no further grievance and/or court litigation in this matter and the FOIA materials requested for this incident should now be available under FOIA. We expect a response within ten days under FOIA protocol.
Michigan Department of Corrections OTIS-Christopher Luke Pratt, Inmate# 673261 As most of you are aware, Christopher Luke Pratt was arrested on June 24, 2007 and remained in the Calhoun County Jail until his convictions by a jury in Circuit Court in December 2007. In January he was sentenced to 5-15 years in prison. http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261 for Domestic Violence, Unlawful Imprisonment, Interfering w/Electronic Communciations Causing Injury/Death, & Assault with Dangerous Weapon (Felonious Assault). These charges are unrelated to Mary's case and involved his most recent girl-friend. He is now incarcerated by MDOC, Bellamy Creek Correctional Facility in Ionia and will not even be eligible for parole until February 24, 2012.
Shortly after March 2007 when the the new city manager, Chris Olson accepted his position the family asked for a meeting, which was attended by Cliff & Anita, and others. It was immediately apparent that Chris Olson did not want to listen to the family’s plight. He stated to the Marshall’s, "you are all part of the problem, not part of the solution." Anita walked out of the meeting and to this date the city manager has never contacted them or even sent a letter expressing his desire to help the family in the tragedy of their daughter’s disappearance. City Manager Chris Olson has never attended a vigil or event for Mary.
Some time in early 2008 the family learned through a FOIA request that Acting Chief-Sgt. Scott McDonald had classified Mary's case as a homicide. No one in law enforcement ever came to the family to explain the new status or why it might have been changed? For the first time in over 4 years the Mary Lands investigation was being called a homicide.
These are just a few of the incidents that were documented and included in the Marshall’s letter to the Attorney General. Almost immediately the family received a reply from the Office of Attorney General, Criminal Division Chief, dated November 20, 2008. In part it stated, the information contained in your letter is compelling and heartbreaking. I am writing to inform you that we intend to examine this case.
On December 12, 2008 it will have been 4 years & 9 months since Mary Denise Lands disappeared. The family has endured five holiday seasons without their beautiful daughter, but this is the first holiday that we all have hope. There is genuine optimism that the Michigan Attorney General will finally be the professional legal entity that can obtain justice for the family, bring Mary home, and hold accountable the person/s responsible for her disappearance and murder.
Cliff & Anita Marshall and their family wish to thank all our friends and supporters and hope you enjoy a very Happy Thanksgiving holiday. If anyone has information about Mary's case we ask you to please contact Chief Assistant Dan Buscher at the Calhoun County Prosecutor's Office- 269.969-6980, D/Sgt. Mike Salmen, Battle Creek Post, Michigan State Police- 269.968-6115 or the Office of Michigan Attorney General- Toll Free- 877.765.8388
Note- On November 25, 2008 the Carole Sund/Carrington Foundation in California was contacted about Mary's disappearance. Their Foundation places reward monies for missing persons. In February of 1999, Carole and Juli Sund and Silvina Pelosso were missing while on a sightseeing trip to Yosemite National Park. While they were missing, Francis and Carole Carrington, Carole Sund's parents, established rewards both for their safe return and for information on the whereabouts of their rental car. They believe that posting the reward money and receiving media attention on their case helped in locating the rental car, which gave them their first break in the case. It was for this reason the Carrington's established Carole Sund/Carrington Memorial Reward Foundation. The Foundation's goal is to safely return missing persons to their homes and to secure the arrest and conviction of violent criminals. The Carrington hope is to turn their tragedy into triumph for other families.
A reward for information on Mary's case was listed for some time however was then withdrawn, as is their policy. The Foundation advised us they would consider reinstating a reward in Mary's case. They require a letter from the family, which has already been received. They also require verification from law enforcement that the case is open and a reward might assist police in their investigation. A letter was provided to First Lt. Dale Peet of the Michigan State Police on 12/02/2008 asking that his agency contact Sund/Carrington about reinstating the reward. We hope by the first of the year the Sund/Carrington Foundation will have a new reward available in the Mary Denise Lands case. http://www.carolesundfoundation.com/sections/missing?person=285
November 12, 2008 sadly marked, 4 years & 8 months since Mary Denise Lands purportedly walked away from her apartment at Waldon Pond Town Homes, #7, 1200 Arm Street in Marshall, Michigan at approximately 10:00 P.M. on the wintry evening of Friday, March 12, 2004. Weather conditions on that date and time were recorded to be; 19 degrees, 10-15 mile per-hour winds, intermittent snow flurries, with snow on the ground. Mary was attired in light-weight blue medical scrub pants with a "Sponge Bob" print scrub shirt, soft slip-on athletic shoes with no heel back, and wearing her favorite winter brown leather bomber jacket. This was the report of her fiancé, Chris Pratt. 44 hours after she allegedly went missing he called her mother and father in California to ask if they had seen Mary? The family then notified the Marshall Police Department.
The 5th winter season since Mary disappeared is just around the corner. Before long it will be the 5th Thanksgiving Day, the 5th Christmas Day and the 5th New Year that the Marshall family have endured not knowing the fate of their beloved daughter? Chris Pratt still refuses to speak or offer help in the search for Mary as he sits in prison cell at Bellamy Creek Correctional Facility in Ionia. As most people are aware, he was sentenced to a minimum of four years and eight months to a maximum of 15 years in prison. He was convicted by a Calhoun County jury in December 2007 for felony assault and other violent crimes against another girl-friend. He has now been incarcerated for 16 months. A possible parole could occur as early as February 2012. In about 3 years Christopher Luke Pratt could again be stalking the streets of Marshall placing victims, families, and society in fear.
The tenure of Acting Police Chief, Sgt. Scott McDonald of the Marshall Police Department seems to have lost focus, direction and interest in Mary’s case. He recently made a comment. "I don’t know what all this talk is about with Sgt. Tim Bryant?" He has been investigated and cleared of any allegations." This comment from the same acting police chief who claims to have initiated a drug search with K-9 units at the Marshall High School. That was a definitive lie. Maybe, if and when a new professional police chief from the outside is finally appointed there will be some positive change for the community and Mary's case? It has been 9 months since Chief Mike Olsen either resigned or was fired? Why is it that Marshall City Manager Chris Olson has not yet named a new police chief? It is this same city manager who met with Cliff & Anita Marshall after taking over his new job. He was not happy with our criticism of the police department in their mishandling of the case. He stated, "You are all part of the problem, not part of the solution." His poor demeanor and attitide toward Mary caused Anita Marshall to walk out of the meeting. To this day, he has never called the family or offered support in Mary's case. He has never appeared at a single event or even supported the family with a gesture of empathy.
Cliff Marshall related his frustration to me about an incident with Marshall Mayor Bruce Smith. In the past Cliff has attended and spoken at Marshall Council meetings. Many of us have done so about Mary’s case. After one recent meeting, Mayor Smith walked by Cliff and asked if he was supposed to speak? Cliff said no. Then Mayor Smith said, and who are you? He didn’t have a clue that Cliff was Mary’s father. Mayor Smith is another typical politician in Marshall and along with City Manager Chris Olson never appeared at any of Mary’s vigils or events. With an attitude like this from certain appointed and elected city officials it is no why the Mary Denise Lands case has not been solved. Out of sight, out of mind.
The Marshall community is now joyous and festive preparing for another happy holiday season. Events include fundraising for Dramatic Action Theatre Company, Marshall Scarecrow Days, Haunted Trail, Marshall Main Street, Nutcracker, the annual holiday parade, a Christmas candlelight walk, and It's a Wonderful Life - A Live Radio Show at the Franke. It may be a wonderful life for some, but not for all living and working in Marshall. Some things don't seem to matter, especially with the MPD investigation of Mary Denise Lands? If you listen to city officials there is no crime and there are no problems in Marshall. The city is just one great place to visit that will put a happy face and smile on everyone. The Marshall family, friends and supporters have been to the Brooks Circle Fountain at least 8 times since Mary disappeared. It didn't put any smile on our faces.
For the last several months some politicians seem more concerned about their election and re-election than in anything else. What about the question of justice for the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands? After the elections next month, will there be a new direction? We really don’t know? We can only hope.Last March law enforcement officials gathered at Mary’s 4th Anniversary Vigil holding a sign, Where is Mary? They stated, "We will never forget." Mary's Vigil- YouTube, 03/12/08You all made that commitment to the public and we hold you to your word. You cannot forget about Mary.
Letter to the Editor, Battle Creek Enquirer- November 8, 2008 Clifford & Anita Marshall and I wish to express our congratulations to Susan Mladenoff, prosecutor-elect of Calhoun County. It will be a difficult job but with her dedicated experience, professionalism and integrity we believe she will again be a great prosecutor for justice and our community. The Marshall Police Department has clearly displayed their lack of empathy, ability or desire to solve the Mary Lands case. The City of Marshall police and public officials have told outright lies to the family. Their only objective is to ignore Mary’s case, and hope it all just goes away. Well, we are not going to go away. We hope that Ms. Mladenoff will take a fresh look at all the evidence related to Mary’s case. We have trust in the professionalism of the Michigan State Police and other agencies that would be able to assist the Prosecutor’s Office in closing this case. We pray that Mary Denise Lands will be a priority and the person/s responsible for her disappearance and murder will be held accountable in a court of law. On November 12, 2008 Mary will have been missing for 4 years & 8 months. It’s about time we bring her home. Jim Carlin Justinian Investigative Services Battle Creek, Michigan
A single person in our community can bring this all to a close today. You are asked to make one telephone call for Cliff & Anita with the genuine tip that can bring their daughter home. If you are afraid to contact the Marshall Police Department you can call another agency or directly contact D/Sgt. Mike Scott of the Michigan State Police, White Pigeon Post- 269.483.7612, D/Sgt. Mike Salmen, Battle Creek Post- 269.968.6115, or the Calhoun County Prosecutor's Office- 269.969.6980. You can do this anonymously, but either way make the call. Please help, bring Mary home.
Update, December 4, 2008, Attn: Sgt. Tim (TJ) Bryant of the Marshall Police Department-Today is Day 139 since we asked you about your willingness to take a polyraph examination? What's the answer? What do you have to hide? I think we all know the answer to that question? (TJ, Don't you think it would be right to obey the law and not block a sidewalk with your own car in front of your house at 615 W. Mansion? Or is this more of your own brand of Marshall Law?)
Many of your friends and relatives have told me you are following Mary’s blog and web site. I have an offer for you. Today during several interviews about the Mary Lands case your name came up over and over again. For the life of me I can’t understand how one police-officer could be involved in so many dubious activities? Are all these people making this up to get back at you for some ulterior motive? I’d like to know the truth? Surely you do? You probably are getting tired of hearing my name just as I am tired of hearing yours. I’d like to offer you a proposition?
First, I would like to meet with you at your earliest possibility. Possibly Ketchum Park or maybe we could have a chat at the Fountain directly in front of the police department. I’d like to ask you about all these accusations made against you?I absolutely would want to meet face to face with the person who brings up things about me so that an explanation or denial can be made. I would like to hear your side of these allegations and what you have to say about Mary’s case?
Second, I am very familiar with the work of D/Sgt. Geoffrey Flohr. He presently has over 26 years current law enforcement experience with public and private licensure in Michigan as a polygraph examiner. He also is full member of the American Polygraph Association. You may also know of this investigator’s respected credentials at the Michigan State Police. He is called the "Closer" at MSP for his careful and deliberate manner in completing investigative interviews. D/Sgt. Flohr does polygraph examination on his own. It is permissible under MSP policy as long as the subject taking the polygraph has not yet been charged in any criminal matter. One would think, if you have nothing to hide, you would jump at the opportunity to answer certain questions and for the polygraph result in your examination to be a clear "no deception indicated." I know that D/Sgt. Flohr is not concerned about the result favoring the person talking the polygraph or for the state’s case. His only concern is to know he administered a fair and proper polygraph examination. When the test is reviewed by his peers they also should come up with the same conclusion.D/Sgt. Flohr charges approximately $500.00 for his examinations and he is accredited across the state in its use. I’d be willing to pay any and all the costs of the polygraph for you if you would agree to take a test? If TJ Bryant has nothing to hide then you would have no reason to refuse my offer. I challenge you to take a polygraph and show that you are not the law breaking rogue cop that some people say you are? This could go a long way in reassuring the minds of many citizens that you are truly innocent of the allegations against you. So how about it TJ? Lets start with a meeting on your day off at Ketchum Park or the Circle Fountain in Marshall. We can then go from there. What do you have to lose? You use polygraphs every day as a resource tool. Why not use this tool to prove you have not done any of the things that people have alleged? There has been a dirty cloud hanging over your head now for over ten years. Why not try to clear yourself? Prove to the people you really are an honest and dedicated police-officer, or can't you prove it?
July 30, 2008- We are not pleased in having to post this particular revelation on Mary’s blog and hoped it was not accurate, however the facts speak for themselves. We have tried to work with the Marshall Police Department and know that Mary’s case has been difficult from the start, but we believed in the last 12 months they were doing everything possible to solve the case. 4 years, 5 months, and 7 days later we again feel that this is not true. Why? Because we continually are told lies by those who are in charge. In February 2008 Sgt. Scott McDonald, acting police chief, was informed of drug activity at the Marshall High School. He was provided names and informed that drugs were stored in the school lockers of the students. He immediately stated he would take care of the matter and added that the principal of the high school welcomes law enforcement in with drug dogs because of the zero tolerance policy. Sgt. McDonald stated that a search would absolutely be undertaken and he would seek the services of the Calhoun County Sheriff and their K-9 deputies. Law enforcement did not initiate any search and in April 2008 I again brought up the matter and Acting Chief McDonald gave a "wink and a nod" that it was being done. We were concerned because the information on the drug activity continued to come in and the school year was drawing to an end. In June, he was then again asked about the search and replied that he had passed along the information. To the best of his knowledge the search was completed in May and nothing was found. I was willing to accept this answer but because of a pattern of misinformation in the past I requested Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) from the Calhoun County Sheriff on "all reports at Marshall High School from 01/15/2008 to end of school year regarding drug search on student lockers." On July 15, 2008 Sheriff Byam responded that he was unable to locate any records for such a search. Last week I submitted a follow-up request to his response asking, "can you advise if your office was informed and unable to complete the request of the Marshall Police Department or did you not receive a request from the Marshall Police Department to conduct a search asking for K-9 resources?" I have no doubt that per the initial response from Sheriff Byam he is going to reply he was never asked for K-9 resources to search the school. August 4, 2008-Sheriff Al Byam's office sent me a letter concerning follow-up to his FOIA response of July 15, 2008. He indicated he needed another (10) ten days to respond. This is acceptable under FOIA protocol.He then confirmed for the 2nd time there was no request for a search by MDP and no search was done.
August 18, 2008- As you know, we have been trying to ascertain the truth on a hallway walk-by search of the student school lockers for drugs at the Marshall High School. We were advised by MPD that this was completed prior to the end of the school year, but with no results. Because of inconsistent information, 2 FOIA requests were submitted to the Calhoun County Sheriff on the reports and results of any search during the latter part of the 2008 school year. 2 FOIA responses from the Sheriff confirmed there was no request by MPD and no search conducted. Additional FOIA requests were submitted to the City of Marshall, and today I received a response from their FOIA coordinator.
Response from City of Marshall, FOIA Coordinator;
Detective Sergeant McDonald has reviewed your August 8, 2008 FOIA request for "materials related to any reports, complaints, records, requests and any documentation that may be released under FOIA made by you and/or your department to the Calhoun County Sheriff Department regarding the use of their K-9 resources. The period of interest is between January 15, 2008 and the end of the school year." There are no documents applicable to FOIA that meet your request. Chris Zuidema
Administrative Assistant
City of Marshall (269)781-5183 xt 1129
Again we ask, When are these lies going to stop? When will we see justice in Mary’s case? What does this all indicate? It indicates we have been told more lies. My only conclusion on why this search was not completed was because the Marshall Police Department did not wish to pursue it. Yes, there probably are some dubious students at the high school who the police know are always in trouble and might have drugs in their possession and could have been apprehended. It just seems that the search was not undertaken because perhaps some students who might also have drugs would be from families of the more affluent members of society in Marshall. The MPD can’t be bothering those individuals with such a minor distraction as these parents being called that their children had been arrested. That is what is really sad. If the drug dogs would have went into the school in March and not even found anything then at least you could bet that the high school would have been drug free for the rest of the school year because students would be afraid of being caught. All materials of the FOIA request will be fully published in full as soon as the latest response from Sheriff Byam is received. What does this mean? It means if you have money and power in Marshall, Michigan your daughter will be found if missing and the person/s responsible will be held accountable in a court of law. If you are of modest means and in need of government services such as the police department you are on your own. Incompetent members of the police department just go about doing what they want to do to anyone at anytime. The bogus trespass notice to me by Officer Ivey is a prime example. You may view the FOIA materials from the July 23, 2008 complaint of Barbara Ruddock. MPD-Ruddock TrespassFOIA, 07/23/2008 One thing is very odd. I video-taped my cordial conversation with Ms. Ruddock that lasted nearly 20 minutes on the sidewalk in front of her home. For my own protection I also have GPS documentation to prove where I am and where I go. The GPS clearly indicates my vehicle parked in front of the Ruddock residence during the time I had my conversation with her. Why is it that 4 hours later she is calling the MPD crying and upset that I engaged in stalking and harassing conduct? Who put her up to these actions and does it have anything to do with Sgt. Tim Bryant and the dog bite incident I was inquiring about with Ms. Ruddock. She claimed she is a psychic and told me about what happened to Mary Lands. In the police officer's own report Ms. Ruddock stated that she has been advised by her psychiarist to not bring up the matter of Mary Lands for her mental wellness. She didn't have any problem talking to me about it. Based on the information this would seem to be a false police report that she made to the MPD. The other person who was issued a trespass notice never even went to the property. She called the residence and Officer Ivey issued a trespass notice because of a telephone call? Where in the statute is it that a trespass notice can be issued under these type circumstances? Maybe under Marshall Law, but not in accordance with actual law and Michigan statutes. A copy of the six word Marshall City Ordinance is on the last page of the FOIA. The no trespass notice and the statutes they reference are ludicrous. This same officer tried to charge Cliff, Anita, myself and another with a bogus home invasion charge in 2006. This was on the complaint of Chris Pratt after he vacated the apartment at Waldon Pond that still was in Mary's name. Oh, but then remember, Chief Mike Olsen gave the Marshall's a "wink and a nod" that this was all nothing and not to worry about it. It appears another officer can lie and not be accountable in a simple dog bite incident and get away with it.
Certain people with a badge and gun are using their positions to intimidate and harass citizens because they have a specific agenda. Officers at MPD should be investigating the status of a sex offender residing at 329 West Mansion Street directly across the street from a school and child day care. They should be investigating 330 North Marshall, a sex offender in that residence where a minor child also resides. They should also be looking at the 21 sex offenders that reside in the city limits and ascertain if they are in full compliance with guidelines of the Michigan Sex Offender Registry? This abuse of power is wrong and it takes away from our civil rights.
There is a specific statute under federal and state law that precludes police-officers from abusing their authority. This has been going on for quite some time and many would like to know when is all this going to end? Where is the new chief or a permanent one that is willing to step forward and clean up this befuddled bunch of bumbling misfits? Why hasn’t the city manager, Chris Olsen stepped in? He stepped in to fire Chief Olsen? Oh that’s right, "We are part of the problem, not part of the solution." No wonder a police chief has not yet been appointed? What professional cop would want to walk through the doors of that department? It probably is the same reason why Deputy Chief Pherson left to become police chief in Coldwater? Who can be proud to say they are a police officer in Marshall? Very few….
Acting Chief McDonald stated in FOIA response earlier this month that Mary's case is an open homicide investigation being conducted by the MPD. If this is true why wasn't Mary's family advised of this change in status and what is that indicates she is now a homicide victim? The family at least should be kept up to date on the status of the investigation. If you can't or won't solve the Mary Lands case turn it over to an agency that will find her and prosecute the person/s involved. Just stop with your dirty tricks and lies!
On March 12, 2008 numerous law enforcement officials stood together at Mary’s 4th anniversary vigil holding her sign, Where is Mary? Many had never been there before and we deeply appreciated their gesture, and the words, "We will never forget" Four months later we have to wonder if this was just another dog and pony show for the November elections? Many people believe that is exactly why they were there.
Run for election to any office you are seeking but don’t put justice on hold until January 1st because you are all too busy campaigning and doing other things. Christopher Pratt is in prison for his convictions of crimes against another woman. We are not satisfied with his present incarceration. You supposedly call him a "person of interest" in Mary's case. What effort are you making today to charge the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands? All we are asking for is honesty and justice. Do the jobs for which you were appointed or elected. Wear your badge with pride and take pride in the job you do.
This is the right way a dedicated and professional police chief in Orlando and his agency handle police corruption. When will we see this type of action on our own local news reports?
The difference is that Orange County Sheriff Kevin Beary and State's Attorney Lawson Lamar know how to investigate crimes of violence, especially crimes against a defenseless child. They know what to do when a suspect "lawyer's-up" Read the attached PDF file from a prosecutor in the Orlando Office. http://www.wftv.com/download/2008/0829/17335521.pdfIt gives you a real understanding of the facts in the case and it shows that these agencies know how to handle difficult cases.
These are real cops doing real police work. Take a few minutes to read about Caylee and the unusual circumstances of her disappearance over one month ago. http://www.wftv.com/news/17340180/detail.html Take the time and call a member of law enforcement if you have any information about any crime. We could see this type of story right here in Calhoun County but you must pick up the phone.
Saturday, September 13, 2008 marked 4 years, 6 months and 1 day since Mary Denise Lands allegedly walked away from her apartment at Waldon Pond. September 13th will also be the date of the 2nd Annual "Ride for Mary" on behalf of Domestic Violence. As we all now know, Mary was a battered woman who suffered at the hands of her boy-friend, Chris Pratt. He is now serving up to 15 years in prison for convictions on domestic violence and violent assault on another girl-friend.
Participation and Registration for the motorcycle ride will be from 9:00 A.M-11:00 A.M. at the Place Next Door, 924 Hanover Street in Marshall, Michigan. Rain or shine, it will be a 74-mile bike ride with stops at Harley Davidson in Battle Creek, Whistle Stop in Burlington, Coldwater Fraternal Order of Eagles, #1907 and J.D’s Country Connection in Tekonsha. All proceeds will go to the Mary Lands Trust Fund, with a donation to Safe Place, an agency in Battle Creek dealing with Domestic Violence. The last stop of the afternoon will be J.D.’s Country Connection, at approximately 4:00 P.M., which will include a pig roast and refreshments, poker run, live bands including Tommy Vale, vendors on site, raffles, burn out cage, and other great prizes. As we did last year, "Ride for Mary" tee shirts will be available. We still have a limited number of shirts from the August 2007 bike ride. Those will be sold for $5.00. Where is Mary? caps will be sold for $3.00. October 1, 2008- "Ride for Mary"We still have tee shirts left from the 2008 ride, which will be sold for $6.00. If you would like one, please call. All proceeds will go to the Mary Lands Trust Fund.
Come out and join the Marshall family, friends and supporters on our 2nd Annual "Ride for Mary"Many thanks to our great supporters, friends, and sponsors who are making this event possible. Come on out, support the ride, talk about Mary's case, and help bring her home.If you can't attend but would like a shirt, contact Cliff & Anita Marshall at 269.781.4508. We can deliver. 2nd Annual "Ride for Mary" shirts- 09/13/2008 Cliff & Anita announced that although many could not show up because of the rain and storms that passed over Michigan during the weekend Mary's ride was a success. They did raise money at the pig roast and from raffles and prizes, promoting public awareness on the issue of domestic violence. The Marshall's thank you for your support and would like you all to know that they still have "Ride for Mary" shirts now available for $6.00 each in all sizes. If you would like one delivered just give us a call, and we can drop them one off at your home or work.
Because of certain aspects of this particular event some details are being released on an incident that occurred several years ago in Marshall, Michigan. Perhaps if anyone has more knowledge of this event they would come forward? It is yet another incident questioning the professional conduct and integrity of Sgt. Tim Bryant, of the Marshall Police Department. In follow-up investigation of the Mary Lands case I received first-hand direct information that a neighbor was attacked by a dog owned by Sgt. Bryant and as a result of extensive injuries had to be treated at a local hospital. Because of the bite and laws related to quarantine, hospital officials are required to notify the police department. Sgt. Bryant responded and he then learned that it was his dog that bit the victim. It is alleged that he told the victim to lie about the incident and paid her to state that the animal that caused the injury was a stray. He further advised the victim to say there were tags on the stray animal which could infer to the hospital that there were no need for shots? It is further documented that a ring worn by the victim had to be removed at the hospital and was damaged. It is further alleged that Sgt. Bryant paid a local jewelry store for the repair or the ring and all the medical expenses. There never was any written police documentation that Sgt. Bryant was the owner of the dog. Later that day the animal was then transported to Battle Creek and hidden so there would be no connection to Sgt. Bryant. A police report was completed which at this time could appear to be a false police report. Although the statute of limitations would have expired on criminal action for filing a false police report this obviously should be of interest to the Marshall Police Department as it affects the integrity of the entire department. I have requested Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) reports related to the incident. Sgt. Scott McDonald has answered my request that he presently is unable to locate any information of the incident. He responded;
Jim, got your FOIA today on the dog matter. At first glance, I am not having any luck. Can you get me any more particulars? We have been through four computer systems in the past 12 or so years, and each system has it searching quirks. We also had some paper logs, but it will take a long time to research them. If you could get either an exact date, an exact location, or anything more, it would make my search of the records more useful for you. I would also suggest checking with either the Health Department, or perhaps the Humane Society. I say this because if a dog bite occurred, the officer would have had to file a Quarantine Notice, which is eventually filed with the County Health Department. I'll continue looking and respond soon. Sgt. McDonald is obviously trying to locate the documentation and he will be provided additional information. As he suggested, I have already submitted further FOIA inquiries to the Calhoun County Health Department and Humane Society. It also appears that the same animal may have previously bit another elderly resident and I have requested information on other incidents.
July 23, 2008- When will it end? Interesting developments on the dog bite caper. Additional witnesses confirmed the facts as presented but an unusual response from the City of Marshall, FOIA Coordinator, Chris Zuidema.
Your FOIA request of July 16, 2008, for information regarding a dog bite has been processed. Because of the lack of detail and age of the information requested, there was over 2 hours of research involved. Therefore the charge for this FOIA request will be $27.00 (2 hours at $13.50/hr). The FOIA response is at the reception desk at City Hall for you to pick up at your convenience.
I inquired what documents were found and was their cost included in the $27.00 fee? Ms. Zuidema replied;
Mr. Carlin, No reports, complaints or records were found when the individuals were run through the database and nothing was found in the paper records that match your request.
Ms. Zuidema has always provided in a timely manner the FOIA documents I have requested and this obviously has nothing to do with her efforts to find the dog bite report. However, the dubious plot continues. Not only was this particular incident not handled properly with another officer taking the call and completing a report, but it appears that Sgt. Bryant never even wrote one? I imagine this is totally consistent with his lack of writing reports for which he was suspended in 2007. As Acting Chief McDonald suggested, I have submitted FOIA requests to the Humane Society and the Calhoun County Health Department. and awaiting their response. It was also determined that the ring which was damaged was repaired by David Jewelers, which has now closed its doors and no longer doing business in Marshall. I have however, requested Duane Mestemaker to provide details of the repair. He should have no problem in doing so unless there is a claim of jeweler/client confidentiality?
Latest Update, July 26, 2008- Today, July 26, 2008 I received a certified letter from Officer Rebecca Ivey of the Marshall Police Department with a no-trespass notice. It cost the taxpayers of Marshall $5.32 to be mailed. It states that I left "a business card at residence to victim identifying self to victim." Because of my actions of harassing and annoying the victim I am hereby forbidden to enter into or onto the premises of 330 N. Marshall Avenue in Marshall, Michigan. If I am found in violation I may be subject to arrest and prosecution for trespass under Michigan City Ordinance (Chapter 133, Section 133.03, State Law reference MCLA 750.546. This will remain in effect for one year. It is signed by the property agent, Barbara Ruddock. My intent for stopping at the home was to speak with Laura Engle, the woman who was bitten by Sgt. Bryant’s dog. Ms. Engle is the live-in significant other of Ms. Ruddock. Officer Ivey ought to be issuing a no-trespass notice to Troy Allen Ruddock, Ms. Ruddock’s 25-year old son who is a registered sex offender at that address. He should not be permitted to live in the residence with Ms. Engle’s 14-year old daughter. That no-trespass notice might be somewhat more important to society than the one they issued to me. By the way, another woman who was not even present with me was given a no-trespass notice for the same location by Officer Ivey. I wonder if this means that despite all the other verifications that Laura Engle was bit by Sgt. Tim Bryant’s dog she will now deny it? Is this the real reason I was issued a no-trespass notice?
We still would like to know, "Who let the dog out?"
07/23/08- At approximately 8:00 P.M. this evening I received a voice mail from Officer Rebecca Ivey of the Marshall Police Department asking that I call her back about a complaint she was investigating. I returned her call and after a brief wait spoke to the officer. She advised me that I was the subject of an investigation involving one Barb Ruddock. She stated she would like me to come in and pick up a no trespass notice. I declined and she then advised me she would be mailing the no trespass notice in the mail. Ms. Ruddock was interviewed earlier today about the dog bite incident and Sgt. Bryant. I actually was trying to speak with her room-mate, Laura Engle. The interview was pleasant and cordial and took place on the sidewalk in front of her residence of 330 N. Marshall Street in Marshall. She told me how she was struggling to take care of her friend, Laura and her daughter. She was about to be homeless for not paying rent and was holding a garage sale on Saturday to raise money. She confirmed many of the details herself including that Sgt. Bryant took paid Ms. Engle for the injury, but added, "So what, big deal, forget it." She claimed she was a good friend of Sgt. Bryant and would not ever say anything on the record against him. She stated the position of Ms. Engle was the same. Later I also spoke with Cam Engle who resides two houses west of Sgt. Bryant at 629 Mansion Street. Mr. Engle also confirmed some details of the dog bite but did not wish to become involved because Sgt. Bryant was a neighbor and his friend. Mr. Engle is now divorced from Laura. A sidebar, Cameron Ray Engle, DOB-05/31/1966, age 42 is also on the Michigan Sex Offender Registry. http://www.mipsor.state.mi.us/PSORSearchDetails.aspx?oid=16456724
He was convicted in November 2007 of Criminal Sexual Conduct. It should also be noted that his residence is directly across the street from Sherman School, which also has a child day care facility, Shamrock Center. How is it that this person is permitted to reside so close to a school as a registered sex offender? Is it because he is a friend of Sgt. Tim Bryant? If you will recall, it was former Sgt. Rebecca Ivey (demoted last year to patrol officer) who in June 2006 requested that the leasing manager of Waldon Pond Apartments, Cliff, Anita and myself to come in to MPD to discuss crimes she was investigating, as we were suspects. Chris Pratt claimed that we committed a home invasion, theft and burglary from his apartment. In fact, the leasing manager permitted us to enter with her after he failed to pay rent and legal action was taken against him. He had vacated the apartment and it was empty. Former Sgt. Ivey spent a considerable amount of time trying to make a case against us despite assurances from former Chief Mike Olson, with a "wink and a nod" to the Marshall's that "this was nothing and not to worry about it." Former Sgt. Ivey maintained we were suspects in those crimes. Clifford & Anita actually went down to the station and were read their rights by Sgt. Ivey. We all declined to speak invoking our rights under Miranda and would not speak with the officer unless an attorney was present. Sgt. Ivey eventually issued a warrant request against us for various felonies but the prosecutor declined to charge us with any crime and the matter was dropped. I don’t know if this is more harassment and intimidation from the Marshall Police Department and who might have put Ms. Ruddock up to asking for a no-trespass notice to be issued? I can state one fact from my conversation with Ms. Ruddock. She advised me that she has a son living in the home. Her friend/room-mate, Laura Engle and her 14-year-old daughter also live there. It is worth noting that Ms. Ruddock's son, Troy Allen Ruddock, age 25, DOB-09/01/1982 is listed on the Michigan State Police Sex Offender Registry. He was convicted of Criminal Sexual Conduct, 2nd degree. I don’t believe any minor child can be permitted to live in this residence with a registered sex offender. Troy Ruddock actually has 330 N Marshall, Marshall, Michigan as his address on the registry. Officer Ivey should have noted this and taken action for this obvious violation. It is hoped today that the Michigan State Police and DHS-Children's Protective Services will pay a visit to the Ruddock house at 330 N. Marshall and ascertain who resides at that location?
Poor police work, someone trying to send a message? I don't know? I do know that I didn't do anything wrong and if people don't wish to speak with me about Mary Lands, Sgt. Tim Bryant, or Santa Claus all they have do do is refuse and I'll be on my way. In this case certain people seem to now be aware of what we know about a dog bite and they are trying to stop others from knowing. This appears to be another cover-up, of yet another secret in Marshall, Michigan. Could actions or inaction’s of Officer Ivey be yet another reason why people in Marshall refuse to make statements to members of law enforcement? Why do the same people who are willing to tell their version of what took place to me but others refuse to talk to the police? Are we to believe if someone does a wrong they should get away with it? If they are a friend or neighbor of that police officer should they also get away with wrongs?
The persons having direct knowledge of this incident and the actions of Sgt. Bryant are reluctant to come forward because of fear. This unfortunately seems to be the prevalent attitude of many citizens about questionable conduct especially involving Sgt. Bryant. They may be willing to provide details to some law enforcement agency if the allegations are taken seriously? Good people want to speak out and tell the truth about certain things but many are afraid. If you have any information about questionable actitities of a police-officer or any person in this matter or that of the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands you are urged to contact law enforcement authorities. My thought is that if any of this is accurate and a police-officer falsified an official police report on a minor incident like a dog bite, or did not follow proper procedures of the department, what else has that officer been involved in, and what else has he lied about?
Update, July 28, 2008- The Preliminary Examination for Shane Allen Lorenz was held this afternoon in the courtroom of Judge Samuel Durham. Present in court were family and numerous friends of the victim. Jane Piper, the mother of Mr. Lorenz was the only person present from the Lorenz family. Chief Assistant Prosecutor Dan Buscher represented the State of Michigan. After a brief hearing that included testimony from two witnesses Judge Durham issued a prompt ruling that the state had sufficiently provided enough evidence for Mr. Lorenz to be held for trial. He was remanded back to the Calhoun County Jail presently being held on $5,000.00 Bond. July 8, 2008- The Preliminary Examination is still scheduled for Shane Allen Lorenz on Monday, July 28, 2008 at 3:15 P.M. in Calhoun County District Court, Room 353, in front of Judge Samuel L. Durham. Mr. Lorenz’s court appointed attorney is Kenneth Marks. Mr. Lorenz remains incarcerated in the Calhoun County Correctional Facility on $5,000.00 Bond. He is charged with Assault with Intent to commit Grievous Bodily Injury, less than Murder, a 10-year felony.
Shane Allen Lorenz, age 25 (DOB-03/24/1983) was arraigned today, July 16, 2008 in Calhoun County District Court on the felony charge of Assault with Intent to Commit Grievous Bodily Harm, less than murder. (This offense carries a 10 year sentence & $5,000.00 fine) Present for the video arraignment was the victim, his family and friends. Mr. Lorenz was completing a 35-day sentence for a probation violation on his conviction of domestic violence in which he failed to pay court fees and attend anger management counseling. He was scheduled to be released on July 21, 2008. He also has a pending trial for a felony charge related to his mandatory registration on his status as a Michigan Sex Offender. His bond on today's charge was set at $5,000 and he was remanded back to the Calhoun County Jail. He asked for a court appointed attorney and his Preliminary Examination is set for Monday, July 28, 2008 at 3:15 P.M. in Courtroom #353. It is alleged that Mr. Lorenz was assaulting his girl friend when this victim stepped forward to help. This is the result of the injuries to his most recent victim.VictimDWofShaneLorenz.jpg I stopped at the Spruce Tree Mobile Home Park later in the day to speak to Shane’s mother, Jane Piper. I was looking for Jake and wanted to give her a business card to pass along to Shane so I could speak with him about Mary’s case. Mrs. Piper stated she hardly sees Jake. When asked about Shane she said he was incarcerated but getting out next week. I told her I was present at the video arraignment today and he is being held on another charge. I informed her of the allegations and showed her a photograph of the victim taken after the attack. She looked at the photo and stated, "My little peanut would never do anything like that." If you have any information on this vicious assault (Case # 2008-003441) you are urged to contact Officer Tim Stanley of the Albion Public Safety Department- 517.629.3933 or Calhoun County Deputy Sheriff Chris Bacik- 269.781.0967. If you have information on the Mary Denise Lands case please contact Jim Carlin, 269.963.7068- JustinianLaw@sbcglobal.net and the Michigan State Police- 269.968.6115.. FYI... Shane Lorenz is the brother of Jake Lorenz & Wesley (JR) Lorenz. Other associates are Randy Slone- MDOC Inmate #656705 and Christopher Pratt- MDOC Inmate #673261
Update- July 18, 2008-It is interesting to note that the (9) nine reports in question not completed by Sgt. Tim Bryant from his disciplinary action of September 2006 actually were not difficult cases or reports to finalize. He was a sergeant supervisor and could do the work any time during those shifts. The reports include incidents of a warrant arrest, theft, criminal sexual conduct, unfounded assault, unfounded disturbance, non-aggravated assaults, illegal entry, burglary and a dog barking complaint. The incidents occurred between April 9, 2006-September 8, 2006. Why is it that a supervisor of other police officers on a given shift can’t get his own work done? What is taking up his time? Is he really doing police work? Enclosed are the (37) thirty-seven pages of the (9) nine reports provided under a FOIA request to the Marshall Police Department. Newest FOIA-07/18/08, Sgt Tim Bryant, MPD-pdf How is it that this person is permitted to carry a gun and a badge as a shift supervisor with the Marshall Police Department?FOIA-07/07/08, Sgt. Tim Bryant, MPD-pdf
On June 30, 2008 another Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request on Marshall Police Sergeant Tim Bryant was submitted. A previous FOIA request was obtained in 2006 and is noted in links on the right of this page. Also requested was FOIA information on the demotion of Sgt. Rebecca Ivey to a patrol officer. That original request was made in November 2007 but was denied because of a pending grievance within the department. The FOIA request on Officer Ivey was again denied for the same reason. It is interesting to see that Sgt. Bryant was again disciplined for Timeliness of Police Reports and a Court Bond issue that was improper. Even after the many verbal and written warnings of the past he was only suspended for (3) days. People have questioned why the Marshall family have looked into these issues involving incompetence and sloppy police work in the Marshall Police Department? I think it is obvious that there could be some connection on why Mary’s case has not been solved and the dubious conduct of some police officers. It is also suspect that the PR Bond given to this individual by Sgt. Bryant after an arrest warrant had been issued might be that of a police supervisor giving someone preferential treatment? The name of the defendant in that case was not properly redacted and was visible on the documents. His name was "David Alan Estep" What could be the connection of this person and Sgt. Bryant? Why was he not arrested? How well do they know each other? What was the original charge? Why was the court paperwork not in the file? Is this a law enforcement officer who could be the new chief of police in Marshall? If you go to the Marshall Police Department web site you will note that Sgt. Bryant is presently the 2nd in command. Former Public Safety Director Mike Olson’s name has been removed from the site. An additional FOIA request will be submitted to the Marshall Police Department on the cases that were not completed by Sgt. Bryant. It truly is a sad state of affairs to see that former Deputy Chief Brett Pehrson had to make up his own form that Sgt. Bryant would have to complete to show he corrected the reports in which he was derelict. TJ Bryant is listed in the Marshall telephone directory so we are not doing anything improper in displaying his address which is 615 W. Mansion Street, Marshall, Michigan. The 9 pages of FOIA are listed in pdf format for easy viewing. P1SgtTimBryantMPDFOIA070708 P2SgtTimBryantMPDFOIA070708 P3SgtTimBryantMPDFOIA070708 P4SgtTimBryantMPDFOIA070708 P5SgtTimBryantMPDFOIA070708 P6SgtTimBryantMPDFOIA070708 P7SgtTimBryantMPDFOIA070708 P8SgtTimBryantMPDFOIA070708 P9SgtTimBryantMPDFOIA070708
On December 12, 2008 Mary Denise Lands will have been missing for fifty-seven long months- over 4 1/2 years. In the first 6 months of her disappearance numerous mistakes were made by law enforcement but we are hoping that in 2008 the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands will be held accountable. Please read about Mary's life, her friends and family and if you can provide any information please contact us and the Michigan State Police, Battle Creek Post,269.968.6115. Mary Denise Lands- Video
Mary Denise Lands was purportedly last seen walking away from her Waldon Pond apartment in Marshall, Michigan at approximately 10:00 P.M. on the wintry evening of Friday, March 12, 2004. Weather on that date and time was recorded to be 19 degrees, 10-15 mile per-hour winds, intermittent snow fluries, with snow on the ground. Mary was attired in light-weight blue medical scrub pants with a "Sponge Bob" print scrub shirt, soft slip-on athletic shoes with no heel back, and wearing her favorite brown leather bomber jacket. This was the report of her fiancé, Chris Pratt. 44 hours after she allegedly went missing he called her parent's in California to ask if they had seen Mary?
The 5th winter season since Mary disappeared is just around the corner. Before long it will be the 5th Thanksgiving Day, the 5th Christmas Day and the 5th New Year that the Marshall family has endured not knowing the fate of their beloved daughter? Chris Pratt still refuses to speak or offer help in the search for Mary as he sits in a prison cell at Bellamy Creek Correctional Facility in Ionia. As most people are aware, he is serving time after his assault convictions for violent crimes against another girl-friend. He has now been incarcerated for 16 months. His possible release could occur as early as February 2012, and in about 3 years Christopher Luke Pratt could again be stalking the streets of Marshall placing victims, families, and society in fear.
The tenure of Acting Police Chief, Sgt. Scott McDonald of the Marshall Police Department seems to have lost focus, direction and interest in Mary’s case. He recently made a comment. "I don’t know what all this talk is about with Sgt. Tim Bryant?" He has been investigated and cleared of any allegations." This comment from the same acting police chief who claims to have initiated a drug search with K-9 units at the Marshall High School. That was a definitive lie. Maybe if a new police chief from the outside is finally appointed there would be some positive change for the community and Mary's case? It has been 9 months since Chief Mike Olsen resigned or was fired? Why is it that Marshall City Manager Chris Olson has not yet named a new police chief?
The Marshall community is now joyous and festive preparing for the holiday season with theatre fundraising, the Scarecrow Festival, Nutcracker, an annual parade, a Christmas candlelight walk, and much more. Nothing else seems to matter, especially with the MPD investigation of Mary Denise Lands? If you listen to city officials there is no crime and there are no problems in Marshall for the police department to address. Marshall is just one big happy face with smiles and good times.
For the last several months politicians seem more concerned about their election and re-election than in bringing to justice the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands. After the elections, will there be a new direction in January? We really don’t know? We hope so. In March, law enforcement officials gathered at Mary’s 4th Anniversary Vigil holding a sign, Where is Mary? They stated, "We will never forget." Mary's Vigil- YouTube, 03/12/08You all made that commitment and we hold you to your word.
People continue in their own efforts to help in the search for Mary. Another independent tracking dog organization with volunteers recently completed searches of properties within Calhoun County. They are awaiting follow-up by law enforcement to verify their findings. We appreciate any assistance from people in the community to help in any way.
A single person in our community can bring this all to a close today. You are asked to make that one telephone call for Cliff & Anita with a genuine tip that can bring their daughter home. If you don’t wish to contact the Marshall Police Department you are urged to contact D/Sgt. Mike Scott of the Michigan State Police, White Pigeon Post- 269.483.7612, D/Sgt. Mike Salmen, Battle Creek Post- 269.968.6115, or the Calhoun County Prosecutor's Office- 269.969.6980. You can do this anonymously, but either way, please make the call.
Update, June 24, 2008-Chris Pratt has been incarcerated today for one full year after his arrest in June 2007 for domestic violence. As you know, in January 2008 he was sentenced up to 15 years in prison for crimes against another girl-friend. If you have information on Mary's disappearance you are urged to contact the police.
Clifford Marshall again must endure the anguish of his 5th Father’s Day not knowing the fate of hisdaughter, Mary Denise Lands. The new police chief in Marshall has still not yet been appointed although officials claim that progress in the investigation continues to be ongoing. Sgt. McDonald has stated he also wants a chief appointed so he can return to his investigative duties on Mary’s case. Upon the official appointment the family plans to immediately meet with the new Marshall police chief to discuss the investigation that has now lasted over 51 months. A "person-of-interest" has been named yet there still have been no charges filed. We continue to receive new tips and information, which are examined and shared with law enforcement. Today, we are all aware that one witness in our community could bring this to an end. Please follow your conscience, you need to make that call. For those who have asked, Cliff & Anita are in the process of moving this week but will still reside in Marshall, Marshall. Our focus is "Justice for Mary" and we will never give up until that has been accomplished and Mary is at peace. We will bring her home. If you would like to call Cliff and say hello for Father’s Day, the telephone number is 269.781.4508. Mailing address; PO Box 63, Marshall, Michigan 49068. Cliff & Anita receive much comfort from the continued support of so many friends in the community. Together, we will bring Mary home and "we’re not going anywhere" until the job is done!
This letter was sent to Inmate Christopher Luke Pratt on March 3, 2008. After three months he still has not responded to my request for an interview. Perhaps some friends or relatives could convince him to talk with me. What harm would it do especially since he maintains he is innocent of any involvement in Mary's disappearance?
March 3, 2008
Mr. Christopher Luke Pratt Inmate # 673261 Bellamy Creek Correctional Facility 1727 West Bluewater Highway Ionia, Michigan 48846
Re: Visit & Interview
Dear Christopher: I hope you are fine and doing well and adjusting to life in the Michigan Department of Corrections facility at Bellamy Creek. I had hoped to speak with you for a few minutes prior to your sentencing in Calhoun County in December, but you jumped up quickly and booked out of the visitor’s area? I couldn’t understand why you would not meet with me at the jail? I’m an objective person and willing to listen. We had quite a dialogue in September 2004, and I never could fully understand why you would not provide more help on Mary’s case? You gave me a great deal of information, but most of it was false. I kept an open mind when we spoke, however bit by bit, and piece by piece it was later obvious that everything you told me were lies. Chris, I now have well over 8,300 hours dedicated to the investigation of Mary’s disappearance. I’ve done all this at no charge for the family. As I previously told you, I wanted to write a story about missing persons and how those tragedies affect families and loved ones. Immediately after I realized the lies you told to me that short feature turned into a non-fiction book, Missing or Murdered in Marshall? The Disappearance of Mary Denise Lands. The first edition has been concluded with the ending of you being sentenced to prison for a maximum of 15 years. I’ll’ be glad to send you a copy soon.
The book includes interviews with many individuals and you will probably be surprised at the materials. It notes many of your idiosyncrasies and bizarre behavior related to anger and control. The crying jags in a naked fetal position on the floor, your bouts with bi-polar mental disorder, your drug and alcohol abuse, your demeanor related to pornography and the television program, "Deal or No Deal". It goes on and on and can be seen as chapters in an abnormal life. To this day, I still continue to hear stories about you that can be documented by numerous witnesses in your family and with co-workers. You know, and I know, what happened to your fiancée, Mary Denise Lands. Only through divine province and God’s will was your most recent girl-friend able to escape your brutal grasp of anger and control. She is now living a much more happy and productive life with her children and her family has successfully emerged after all those months of fear she experienced with you as her "protector" and "boy friend". The really sad thing about that relationship and your others is that you could have had such a good family of people who sincerely cared for you. However, you wasted all those opportunities. I include all the women in your life even going back to the one who moved to Florida. Her family was afraid of you even back then in high school. Chris, although you are now in prison for other crimes the Marshall family will not give up in their pursuit for justice. We fully believe that we will bring Mary home so she may rest in peace. You are in a position to help and I would be willing to speak with you at any time or in any prison for information. I’m willing to follow-up on any theory if you can convince me that you had nothing to do with Mary’s disappearance? If you do wish to talk about what happened to Mary I would be willing to be the conduit between you and the law enforcement community about any facts or your side of the story. We both know that as each day passes the new investigative team of the Michigan State Police is closer to solving the mystery. There are people out there who could do this in a day and they are only waiting to do so when it is in their own best interests, not yours. I do not make any judgement on you. I really feel sorry for you. For a 40-year-old male to be in the situation that you are today it could only have been caused by a life of turmoil and turbulence in your family. I see your Mom often and it is obvious that she is also deeply suffering.
Last year you missed out on Michigan’s hunting season and you won’t be able to sneak out early for pike at Ceresco Dam this year. It will be a long long time, if ever, before you will hunt or fish again. All these results and your present situation were brought upon because of your own anti-social behavior. It was no ones fault except your own. You are "your own worst enemy". I hope that while you are in prison that you will take advantage of any programs that can improve your quality of life. I’m probably the last person in the world you would want to see in prison for a visit, however I would be glad to meet with you and discuss anything of your choice. If you can provide me with any information and insight related to the person/s responsible for the disappearance of Mary Lands, I would follow up on every one of those points. If you wish to meet and don’t even want to discuss Mary’s case I would also be willing to do so. If the real Chris Pratt isn’t the person I’ve heard about over the last 4 years, I’d like to hear about the real Chris from the person himself. Next week we will again meet at the Circle Fountain in Marshall to mark the 4th anniversary of Mary’s disappearance. We will continue to ask, Where is Mary? and, When will we have justice for Mary? You could help another those questions. Give it some thought. Regardless, I hope you can eventually find inner peace and I wish you the best.
(Photo credit, Shelly Sulser, Marshall Chronicle) March 12, 2008-Mary's Vigil- YouTube, 03/12/08 Words cannot begin to express the appreciation to our friends and supporters who attended the Noon vigil at the Brooks Memorial Fountain in Marshall on behalf of Mary. This was the best response we have ever had in 4 years and what also made it special was the presence of professional members of the law enforcement community. Thank you to Steve Harrington for his presentation, and Deacon Bernie Mileski of St. Philip Catholic Church in Battle Creek for the prayers. Cliff, Anita and family were deeply pleased and comforted by your comments. Our sincere thanks to Prosecuting Attorney, John Hallacy, Chief Assistant Prosecutor, Dan Buscher, Sheriff Al Byam, Acting Chief Scott McDonald of the Marshall Police Department, and Lt. Dale Peet and other members of the Michigan State Police. I also invited former chief Mike Olson to attend and he did so.Thank you so much to you all. It is because of our unified effort today, we know that we soon will bring Mary home.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008 will mark the 4-year anniversary of the disappearance of Mary Denise Lands. Although we are much closer than ever before in solving the case and bringing Mary home, family and friends still need to come together on this day to continue public awareness for Mary. Please join us! We hope the winter weather will improve enough for a short event at the Brooks Memorial Fountain in Marshall. Anita Marshall once remarked, "each year it seems as if Mary is up in heaven pushing away storm clouds and adverse weather for a few minutes to provide us a light from above during our vigils". We are confident the 12th will be a good day too. This year we plan to do something different. Instead of the yellow balloons that have been sent aloft in the past we plan to release 48 bright blue "star " balloons, one star for each month that Mary has been missing. Anita & Cliff will release a balloon of their choice. All the balloons will carry a small laminated card bearing Mary's picture, the website, and contact numbers for the Michigan State Police and others. Law enforcement officials have been asked to attend and we expect them to be present and say a few words. Earlier in the week I again met with Michigan State Police investigators and was assured that Mary’s case is being actively and aggressively worked by team members each week. We’ve had good turnouts in the past, but this year lets have as many people as possible join us for 15 minutes at the Circle Fountain in Marshall. Let us show how many in our community have cared about Mary’s case for these last 48 months. We need every one of you to participate. Thank you for your support.
Update- February 11, 2008- Several new developments are taking place in the Mary Lands case and we will advise you of details when the information may be released. Keep the tips and information flowing. We will bring Mary home. Nearly 100 hours of video has been reviewed and will soon be published. This is a short clip of our digging efforts in April 2006, which was just posted on YouTube. April 2006- Search for Mary- F Drive North digs
February 5, 2008- Anita Marshall felt strong and confident in her live interview with Jennifer Moss of www.WOODTV.com She displayed Mary’s jewelry that was recovered in June 2007 and it was a poignant movement for all of us in the studio office. If you have not seen the YouTube video related in the jewelry it may be viewed with the link on the right side of this page. We advised the anchors doing the story that although there appeared to be some crisis and chaos in the Marshall Police Department related to the departure of the chief and the deputy chief we are still positive Mary’s investigation is going forward. The Michigan State Police have advised us that they continue to be in the city each week and are aggressively working the investigation. Throughout the day the family received positive response from the public on the WOODTV-8 presentations about Mary and even new leads, which will be passed along to investigators. Please continue to contact us with any information about the Mary Lands case even if you believe we might be already aware of it. We continue to believe the case will soon be solved and we will bring Mary home. We are now focusing on March 12, 2007, which will be the 4th anniversary Mary’s disappearance. We would like to do something different this year and in a forum that Mary would have appreciated. We will keep you advised on those details in the next few weeks. If you have any suggestions, feel free to contact us. By the way, Christopher Luke Pratt has just about completed his 30-day period at the MDOC, Charles Egeler Reception and Guidance Center in Jackson. He is classified as a Level II inmate and within a few days we should know the location of his new prison home. Chief Mike Olson Resignation? Battle Creek Enquirer- 01/26/2008Battle Creek Enquirer Editorial Opinion- Where is Chief Olson?- 01/30/2008Marshall Chronicle- Chief is Out!-02/02/08Where is Chief Olson? WOOD-TV8- 02/05/08Chief Olson is Out- Battle Creek Enquirer-02/05/08
Please, no vulgar or obscene comments may be posted on our sites regardless of your position on Mr. Pratt’s conviction. They will be deleted. The real obscenity today, however was a defense attorney with the position, "Be it not for Mary Lands this would be just another 93-day domestic violence misdemeanor." Today, was a great day for justice and it could not have been accomplished without the aggressiveness of law enforcement, the Calhoun County Prosecutor’s Office, and the entire criminal justice system. Thank you to all who supported the families of both Norrene Parker and Mary Lands. Without your help we could never have come this far. The sentencing of Mr. Pratt should serve as a vehement deterrent against those who would physically, emotionally, and sexually abuse a domestic partner. An evil person will be now off the streets for many years and we believe in our hearts that the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands will soon be held accountable. We will bring Mary home.
Five months after the June 24, 2007 incident jury selection is expected to commence today in a Calhoun County Circuit Court Room in the trial of Christopher Luke Pratt. He is charged with four domestic violence related crimes after being bound over during preliminary examinations in July and August. Mr. Pratt has been held in the Calhoun County Correctional Facility in Battle Creek on $75,000.00 bond on criminal charges filed by his former girl-friend. The crimes allegedly occurred at a home they shared together on 15 1/2 Mile Road in Marshall, Michigan. Judge Stephen B. Miller is presiding at the trial and Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Dan Buscher represents the State of Michigan. Defense Attorney Thomas Schaeffer of Marshall is representing Mr. Pratt. The three felony charges include False Imprisonment, Felonious Assault, and Interfering with Electronic Communications Device (Telephone). There is one misdemeanor count of Domestic Violence. Another felony charge of Criminal Sexual Conduct is pending and that trial is now scheduled for December 4th. Clifford & Anita Marshall, the parent's of Mary Denise Lands will be present in court with other friends in support of the victim. Friends and members of the family have attended all court hearings to date and plan to be present for the entire trial. This particular incident obviously has no direct connection to their daughter's investigation although we have documented that Mary Lands was also a victim of severe physical and emotional domestic violence. Again we reiterate, if anyone has information on the where Mary can be found you are urged to contact the Marshall family- 269.781.4508 or D/Sgt. Michael Salmen at the Battle Creek Post, Michigan State Police, 269.968.6115. If you wish, you may also contact Jim Carlin, JCarlin@JustinianLawcom and/or Justinian Investigative Services in Battle Creek, 269.441.7068. If it is your request you can remain anonymous.
Chris Pratt, Day 157 in Calhoun County Jail- Bond Remains- $75.000.00, Trial scheduled for November
Update, August 20, 2007-Mr. Pratt’s attorney appeared for a motion hearing in Calhoun County Circuit Court asking that the charges against Christopher Pratt be dismissed. He also presented a motion for a bond reduction on the defendant. Mr. Pratt was present for the hearing after being escorted into court by a deputy sheriff. Three members of the Pratt family were also present in court. Chief Assistant Prosecutor Dan Buscher represented the State of Michigan. Mr. Pratt’s attorney argued that the False Imprisonment charge was a "stretch at most" and there was no restraint. On the count of Telephone Interference (Ripping out the phone) he stated that the "ruckus" had already occurred, and the charge was not appropriate. He further stated that Mr. Pratt and his former girl-friend had been involved in a one-year relationship, and there was no force. He also argued that the magistrate and district judge had abused their authority on the bond issue. Mr. Buscher, on behalf of the State, responded with confidence and clarity on each issue citing pages of testimony from the Preliminary Examination. He further stated the defendant was a dangerous person. After a 20-minute hearing Judge Stephen B. Miller denied the defense request to quash any of the charges, and further denied reduction of the $75,000.00 bond. Mr. Pratt was then returned to the Calhoun County Correctional Facility. He faces a maximum of 38 years in prison and fines. After the case was postponed, if it is not heard on November 6th it will be be first of the docket for November 27, 2007. Video-WOOD-TV8 News-07/02/2007 The recent motorcycle benefit "Ride for Mary" Ride for Mary- New YouTube Video was a huge success with nearly 300 participants. More and more people are coming forward and providing information about the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands. She has now been missing for 44 months, and Labor Day, September 3, 2007 would have been Mary's 43rd birthday.Mary Denise Lands- Video (Chris Pratt, Halloween 2006, as the Grim Reaper)- After this photograph was recognized by Marshall family members it was immediately determined that this costume was actually made by Mary's sister. Her mother, Anita brought it back from California as a gift for Mary in 2001. Mr. Pratt claims that this costume was his and handed down by the Pratt family over the years. He traditionally wears it each Halloween. Ironic, Isn't it? Mary’s sister said it all quite well on one of the the recent postings, and we thank everyone for the support they have offered over the last 44 months. I reiterate my own request to anyone in the Pratt family about the return of Mary’s cloak. We know that there are many good people in their family and we ask if one of them might consider this family request? I can intricately describe the fabric and design of the cloak if there is any doubt? We appeal to Louise Pratt, Jordan, his mother, and the many aunts and uncles of your family to return this item. The Marshall’s have so little of sentimental value from their daughter and it would be a kind gesture. We know the cloak was removed from the house on 15 ½ Mile Road after Chris was incarcerated. It probably is among the items that were moved by family members after his former girl-friend vacated the premises. Thank you for your consideration. Are You a Victim of Domestic Violence? Michigan State Police- Domestic Violence Awareness In the suburbs, a man kills his wife and then turns the gun on himself. Police are called to a hospital to investigate an elderly woman with a fractured hip after being pushed down by her adult son. A teenage girl is punched in the stomach by her ex-boyfriend in the hallway at school. Each of these events raises the same question: Could this tragedy have been prevented?
What is domestic violence? Domestic violence is a pattern of learned behavior in which one person uses physical, sexual, and emotional abuse to control another person.
Domestic violence is not a family matter. It is a crime, and it is in Michigan. The Michigan State Police Uniform Crime Report tells us there were 54,258 reported victims and 30 reported murders related to domestic violence in 2004. Domestic violence is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail and/or a $500 fine.
Under Michigan law, a person has a domestic relationship if any of the following apply: · Spouse or former spouse · Dating relationship or former dating relationship · Child in common · Resident or former resident of the same household
What does domestic violence look like? · The following are some of the most common tactics used by abusers to control their partners but certainly not a complete list. If you or someone you know has their personal freedom restricted or is afraid of their partner, they may be a victim of domestic violence.
Physical Abuse · Pushed, shoved or kicked · Slapped or bitten · Strangled · Hit or punched · Locked out of your home · Denied help when ill, injured or pregnant · Weapon used against you · By physical force, not being allowed to leave · Objects thrown at you · Abandoned in a dangerous situation
Sexual Abuse · Forced to have sex or watch sexual acts · Forced to perform sexual acts or have sexual acts performed on you · Forced to dress more sexually than you wish · Forced to have sex after a physical assault, when you are ill or as a condition of the relationship
Emotional & Psychological Abuse · Threatened harm to you, your family or your pets · Beliefs, race, heritage, class, religion, or sexual orientation ridiculed · Manipulated with lies and contradictions · Being convinced you are to blame for the abuse · Stalked
Economic Abuse · Denied access to bank accounts, credit cards or vehicle · Partner controls all the finances · Prevented from getting or keeping a job or from going to school · Limits your access to health, prescription or dental insurance
What can you do to help someone who is being abused? · Educate yourself about domestic violence. · Let go of any expectations you have that there is a "quick fix" to domestic violence or to the obstacles a woman faces. Understand that a woman's "inaction" may very well be her best safety strategy at any given time. · Believe her and let her know that you do. · Listen to what she tells you and avoid making judgments · Validate her feelings. · Avoid victim blaming. Tell her the abuse is not her fault. · Take her fears seriously. If you are concerned about her safety, express your concern without judgment by saying, "Your situation sounds dangerous and I'm concerned for your safety." · Support her decisions. Remember there are risks attached to every decision an abused woman makes. If you truly want to help, be patient and respectful, even if you don't agree.
Who do you contact for help? Often, the best source of help and information is your local program. For more information on local support services, please visit the Michigan Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence website at: http://www.mcadsv.org/ and click on "Locate Help Near You."
You may also call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233.) Call toll free, 24 hours a day, anywhere in the U.S. Trained counselors provide confidential crisis intervention, support, information and referrals to local programs to victims of domestic violence, their families and friends. The hotline links people to help in their area, including shelters, legal and social assistance programs. Help in English and Spanish with interpreters available in 139 more languages.
For additional information on this important issue, please contact Prevention Services Section, (517) 336-4006.
Sources: The Michigan Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence; Calhoun County Domestic Violence Council Education Prevention Safety and Support Information Guide; and the 2002 MSP Uniform Crime Report.
Additional online resource tools related to domestic violence and abuse:
August 18, 2007- The motorcycle benefit ride on behalf of Mary Denise Lands was held today and exceeded our expections. A Google Video is now available and others will soon be published. http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=829118361094505856&hl=en A special thanks to Chief Mike Olson of the Marshall Police Department, the Michigan State Police, the Battle Creek Police and the other law enforcement agencies who made the "Ride for Mary" safe and successful. After two months of planning for the event it was a great day for a bike ride. The weather was bright and sunny day and Mary was smiling down upon us all. Many people across America have heard about the family’s anguish in Mary’s disappearance and how this tragedy has affected our community. 300 participants came together for the 55-mile "Ride for Mary" tour. We will bring Mary home in 2007. Last year in another event for a different cause 150 bikers participated from a starting point at Godfather’s Pizza/Ball Joint Sports Bar & Grill and toured throughout Calhoun County. We hope to double the number of bikers this year with a similar itinerary. Motorcyclists from Detroit, Coldwater, and other parts of Michigan have agreed to join us on the tour. The August 18, 2007 route will include a 55-mile ride from Battle Creek to Battle Creek to Marshall and Burlington. There will be stops at the Whistle-Stop in Burlington, the Riverside in Battle Creek and returning to Godfather's Pizza at approximately 4:15 P.M. Ride for Mary-FlyerWe welcome your support that day and hope you will join us. The event was open to the public and proceeds will be donated to the Mary Lands Trust Fund at Monarch Bank in Marshall. An autographed Dale Earnhardt, Jr. jacket will be raffled. Tickets are $1.00 each and may be purchased at various locations. Dale Earnhardt Jr-Jacket Where is Mary? t-shirts and caps will be available.Ride for Mary T-Shirtsin sizes M, L, XL for $10.00, the 2XL -$12.00, 3X & 4X-$13.00. Where is Mary? caps will be sold for $3.00. Christman Screenprint advised us that shirts are now available. They can be ordered in advance or purchased during the event. We have already been making deliveries. Call if you would like a shirt or cap. All motorcyclists are welcome to participate. Registration is scheduled at Godfather's Pizza/BalJoint
Update, August 20, 2007- Mr. Pratt’s attorney appeared today for a motion hearing in Calhoun County Circuit Court asking that the charges against Christopher Pratt be dismissed. He also presented a motion for a bond reduction on the defendant. Mr. Pratt was present for the hearing after being escorted into court by a deputy sheriff. Three members of the Pratt family were also present in court. Chief Assistant Prosecutor Dan Buscher represented the people. After a 20 minute hearing Judge Stephen B. Miller denied the defense request to quash any of the charges, and further denied reduction of the $75,000.00 bond. Mr. Pratt was then returned to the Calhoun County Correctional Facility.
After a preliminary examination July 2, 2007 Mr. Pratt was bound over on another 15-year felony count involving Criminal Sexual Conduct and remains lodged in the Calhoun County Jail. The bond on this charge was initially set at $50,000.00 and it was not reduced. The total bond with the other four charges of False Imprisonment, Felonious Assault, Interfering with Electronic Communications Device (Telephone), and Domestic Violence is now $75,000.00. Mr. Pratt faces a maximum of 38 years in prison and fines. He was previously bound over on the other charges on July 2, 2007.
To paraphrase Apollo 11 astronaut, Neil Armstrong, "Today was one small step for one battered woman and our criminal justice system; one giant leap for the family of Mary Denise Lands"
Many people were critical of our decision to remove the YouTube video of Mr. Pratt's girl-friend taking Mary’s signs and of our action to drop legal efforts against her in District Court for a small claims case. I have maintained all along that she has been yet another victim of domestic violence and for Mother Day’s 2007 we decided to take down the video. We believed that we made our point in documenting the loss of Mary’s signs in that video, which was seen by over 23,000 viewers. I have not been able to comment for five weeks because of a safety issue related to her family, however anyone who is cognizant of what occurs in domestic violence obviously knew what was really going on during that Mother’s Day weekend. Unfortunately, it is up to the victim to follow through with any actions and seek available recourse in the courts with options such as a Personal Protection Order (PPO). In May, I fully documented that she was a victim of severe domestic violence, however did not wish to take any action and believed she could handle the situation herself. How many women have made this same wrong conclusion? How many women have been injured and even killed at the hands of a physical abuser? People can be willing to help a victim, but it is up to that victim to decide how to handle their life in a domestic violence situation. They either accept it, or reject it. On June 24, 2007 it became a public record when the Michigan State Police responded to the Pratt residence on 15 ½ Mile Road in Marshall, Michigan (Fredonia Township) on another complaint of domestic violence by his girl-friend. In May, she did not call the Marshall Police Departent, but called me and asked for help which I was glad to offer. However, she made a decision to return to a residence occupied by Mr Pratt where she and her children have lived in fear. I have not heard from her since Mother’s Day, but she again asked for help this weekend. The Marshall family and I will continue to do what we can to assist her family.
It is now alleged that on June 24, 2007 Mr. Pratt's girl-friend was assaulted, her telephone was ripped from the wall, and the interior of the residence was severely trashed. When the police responded Christopher Pratt had fled. Several hours later he was located and he is now lodged in the Calhoun County Correctional Facility being held without bail. June 25, 2007- Mr. Pratt was arraigned this afternoon on four criminal counts Bail was set at $250,000.00. A preliminary examination is now scheduled for July 2, 2007 at 11:30 A.M, at the Criminal Justice Center. Mr. Marshall was present in the court with numerous friends and supporters and feels confident that Mary's case will soon be resolved. We urge anyone with additional information to come forward. It is truly ironic that on June 24th when Mr. Pratt's girl friend was on the phone asking for help, that at nearly the same hour a man in Canton, Ohio had just been arrested for the murder of his pregnant girlfriend. This individual, although employed as a police-officer, was a known perpetrator of domestic violence on women in his life. Now, it is alleged now that this recent victim, and her unborn child have been murdered. People who physically abuse others do not change and that is why victims must immediately break away from these violent relationships.
We believe that Mr. Pratt's girl friend has now finally made a permanent decision to stop being physically and emotionally abused. There are many people who are willing to assist her family. Numerous social service agencies and the courts in Calhoun County can keep her family safe. We only hope that this time she will make a commitment not only to herself, but also to her children, that she will never ever again be a victim of domestic violence. She has the potential to talk about the tragedy of physical and emotional abuse and how it affects the entire family. One day this brave lady will be strong and confident enough to be an advocate for domestic violence and her own experiences will help protect others.
If anyone has information on associates of Mr. Pratt or other individuals related to the Mary Lands investigation you are urged to contact law enforcement authorities and/or the Marshall family. Someone out there can provide that final piece of information to bring Mary home.
June 7, 2007-The Marshall family recently received some great news that will again enable us to continue public awareness efforts in our community for Mary’s case. A local couple came forward with an offer to conduct a motorcycle “Ride for Mary” this summer. Last year they held a similar event on behalf of the Special Olympics, however this event will be dedicated to Mary Denise Lands. So many people across America have heard about the family’s anguish in Mary’s disappearance and how this tragedy was compounded by the ineptness of a local police department. Our resolution is that Mary will be brought home in 2007. Last year 150 bikers participated from a starting point at Godfather’s Pizza/Ball Joint Sports Bar & Grill and toured throughout Calhoun County. We hope to double the number of bikers this year with a similar itinerary. (See News & Events Page for "Ride for Mary" flyer that can be printed out) The route and details for the Saturday, August 18, 2007 event will soon be announced. We welcome your support that day and hope you will join us. The event will be open to the public and proceeds will be donated to the Mary Lands Trust Fund at Monarch Bank in Marshall. We believe that this event will help generate more tips and public interest in the investigation and will result in the person/s responsible for Mary’s disappearance and murder being held accountable in a court of law. Thank you, Mark & Becky, and to the supporters of the 2007 “Ride for Mary” including the Ball Joint/Godfather's Pizza, Atlas Sales/Anheuser Busch, Progressive Printing, Christman Screenprint, and many others in Battle Creek and across America. It is through the kind efforts of good people in our community that enable Cliff & Anita to have some comfort in their difficult times.
May 17, 2007- WZZM-TV 13 ABC, in Grand Rapids, Michigan featured an interview with Clifford & Anita Marshall concerning the disappearance and murder of their daughter, Mary Lands. You may read about it, view their video and post comments.
March 12, 2007 will mark three years,...36 long and arduous months since Mary Denise Lands was last seen as reported by her fiancé, Christopher Luke Pratt. 44 hours later Mr. Pratt called Mary’s family in California and asked if they had heard from her? The family then immediately contacted the Marshall Police Department, but her case was then handled as though she was an adult runaway. In a recent article written by Shelly Sulser of the Marshall Chronicle for the 3rd anniversary of Mary's case she stated that Marshall Police Chief Mike Olson has said repeatedly that in those early days, police could not necessarily presume foul play because adults are allowed to be missing if they so choose. Six months later Chief Olson announced that Mary was being considered a victim of foul play because no evidence of her existence could be found.
This just shows the inadequacies of the Marshall Police Department (MPD) and their arrogance in not immediately and aggressively investigating Mary’s disappearance. A few weeks ago Tara Lynn Grant disappeared from a Detroit suburb. Her husband, Stephen Grant suspected of killing and dismembering his wife was captured Sunday as he fled searchers, running through snow in northern Michigan. Stephen Grant had been the subject of a manhunt since police discovered what they believe to be the torso and other body parts of his wife in and around the couple's house in a suburb of Detroit. Grant was arrested in northern Michigan, some 225 miles from his home, after an air and ground search by local, state and federal agencies, according to the Emmet County sheriff's department. In Mary’s case, the Federal Bureau of Investigation immediately began to assist in the investigation and a task force was formed, however within days the FBI was informed by MPD that their services were no longer needed. They would return today if given jurisdiction of the case by Chief Olson, but he refuses to give up primary control of the investigation. The parents and family of Tara Lynn Grant are indeed fortunate to have law enforcement authorities with a diligent and pro-active perspective of missing persons in their community. This would also include the families of Laci Peterson in California, Lori Hacking in Utah, and so many others. Imagine the status of those cases today if law enforcement had waited six months to commence a viable investigation? An immediate and appropriate police response is required to solve these crimes.
In Mary’s case, a former deputy chief sat with his feet on a desk in a relaxed manner and ridiculed the family in his skepticism that Mary was actually missing. There is much documentation to verify his poor and incompetent demeanor in those first six months. Another issue is why a civilian dog handler was used in the early search, which resulted in a bogus claim that Mary was tracked for miles throughout Marshall and her scent was found on the comforter of a bed in a nearby motel? That statement was the genesis of the story that Mary was an adult runaway and it was totally false and without foundation. No dog or handler ever went into any room at this motel and five days later any scent on such a trail would have been nearly impossible by even the best of certified tracking animals and their handlers. My cat would have been able to track Mary Lands with more accuracy that what was purported by this dubious civilian character who seemed to be sanctioned by the MPD. This felon who was convicted in Eaton County for multiple counts of embezzlement should never have been permitted search duties in Mary's case. How, when, and why she was called to duty by MPD is yet another question? Her report clearly gave a false perception to the entire community that Mary had run away.
In September 2004 Chief Olson announced that Mary was now being considered a victim of foul play, Just a few weeks earlier Mr. Pratt was observed at a flea market in Homer selling Mary’s personal articles. Pictures still in their frames, jewelry, and other personal items. He also had for sale... a brown leather jacket that appeared to be the one she was wearing when she allegedly walked away from their apartment. The jacket was recovered and turned over to MPD, however today they do not even seem concerned with its worth as evidence? After the jacket was recovered he left the flea market quickly leaving the rest of the property at the booth, with a sign, "For Free".
There are also many questions about Mary’s new Dodge Durango. After it was brought back from Lansing and supposedly had been processed for evidence it was stored at Bud's Towing in Marshall. There was no evidence tape, the vehicle was open, and did not even appear to have been processed although we must take the word of MPD on this issue. It was quietly moved after the family inquired about its dubious status as "evidence" and being kept in the open and unsecured tow yard for over two and one half years. Numerous individuals have been in and out of the unlocked vehicle, however again on January 19, 2007 MPD reiterated their claim that the vehicle it is being held as evidence. You may view photographs and information about of the vehicle in other sections of Mary's blog.
On Mother’s Day 2006, Mr. Pratt conveniently found the birth record certificate and a small wallet sized birth document that he claimed he located in a file of Mary’s. He wanted to give it to Anita Marshall on Mother’s Day and delivered the papers. What arrogance! A person who has never supported the family in the search for his missing fiancée shows up on Mother's Day to give these papers to the grieving parents. In September, 2004 I asked Mr. Pratt a question about his desire to find Mary's killer and bring her home? I told him that if it were me, I would be camping out in a tent at the Fountain, across the street from the Marshall Police Department, and wouldn't move until they solved the case. His reply was odd, "Why would I bother, they know where I live?" Anyone looking at the documents would conclude from the way it was folded and dog-eared to fit in a wallet that the papers were probably always in Mary’s purse. This would be the same purse that Mr. Pratt claimed she left with in her possession, on the evening of March 12th. Ask any woman who is often checked for identification to buy alcohol and prove their age? This is exactly the way Mary and other women would store this type of document in their wallet. Her family also confirmed these articles as being in Mary's purse.
Mr. Pratt told me in September 2004 that he had Mary’s engagement ring, which she forgot to put back on after they tanned during the evening of March 12th. At 10:00 PM he states she walked away from their apartment after a minor argument attired only in a lightweight medical scrub outfit from work, flat soft cloth office shoes, her favorite leather jacket, and carrying her purse. She left behind her new Dodge Durango and her cell phone. This sounds a bit odd that a person is going to walk in 19-degree weather and snow dressed in this manner? It is also interesting today that Mr. Pratt claims he is now engaged to his live-in girl friend,. I wonder if Mr. Pratt will be giving Mary’s engagement ring to her or will he purchase her a new one? Mary’s was very distinct and its appearance is well known to many and the family.
(Christoper Luke Pratt- Photographs, more will soon be published)
It is also another irony that on March 14, 2007 Mr. Pratt threw a gala birthday party for his girl-friend, but two days earlier although he was off work, he couldn't find the time to be present at the Circle Fountain for the 3rd anniversary of Mary's disappearance and support the family of his previous fianceé? Why would be though? He never did!
April 13, 2007- Chris Pratt is telling friends and relatives that his girl-friend had to go into the hospital because she lost feeling in her hands and feet. It sure is a strange coincidence that this makes the 3rd woman with whom he has had a relationship to experience this type of unusual medical anomaly. What could it be? Oh, what could it be? Chris, you don’t seem to be working much anymore, and your girl-friend is the one employed and with a viable income and taking care of the house. It must be rough on her having to file for bankruptcy and with other things going on? I plan to return to rural areas of Calhoun County and continue the search for Mary as soon as the weather clears next week. We will have more cadaver dogs and since you have all this idle time on your hands I wondered if you could meet with me and help in the search? As an experienced hunter who claims to know every piece of land in Calhoun County you would know where we could look. I hope you will consider my request and I look forward to talking with you again. Give it some thought? You could help bring home your former fiancee. Jim Carlin
A reasonable person reading about this case might remark that it couldn’t be true, however sadly it is all very accurate. You couldn’t even begin to make up some of the incidents that are real in this three-year odyssey being endured by the Marshall family. Mr. & Mrs. Marshall were read their Miranda Rights by an officer of the Marshall Police Department about a bogus home invasion and burglary alleged by Mr. Pratt. What a joke to expend police resources on such a frivolous claim? Did Mr. Pratt report that Cliff & Anita were even wearing ski masks? Chief Olson later told them "there really was no problem." Could it be that these actions were undertaken to intimidate the family? I frankly question how many people have even been read their rights in the actual investigation of Mary's disappearance? We have all been down, and we also have all been up with positive news about the case. One thing is clear when you hear talk from "Ole Kentuckian," Clifford Marshall. He often remarks, "we ain’t going nowhere ‘til Mary’s found. Then if we want to go someplace, we’ll leave then." I’ve donated nearly 6000 hours and if it takes another 6000 to bring Mary home I am fully committed to it, and to helping this good family. We continue to ask help from the public and even today new tips came in that are very very promising, and will be fully investigated. The weather will be improving soon and we are all committed to doing more digging, advertising, protest walks, and conducting various public awareness projects on behalf of Mary. We still hope that Mary's case and the frustrations of the Marshall family will be featured by national media that can help solve this case. America's Most Wanted, 48 Hours, and others are aware of the Mary Denise Lands situation and we have asked for their help. We intend to do what it takes to get the job done!
It is surprising that we get so much assistance from many different people. However, it is only going to take one person to solve this case. I have no doubt that many people do know exactly what happened to Mary Denise Lands and soon we will all know. Two years ago while doing research on this historic community I wrote that Marshall, Michigan is a lovely and beautiful place to live and work, but evil things can and do occur in the best of places. Something very evil occurred on March 12, 2004 and that evil persists in Marshall to this day.
One great supporter recently published a video tribute to Mary and her family and it may be viewed at http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=5453491744213013506 We believe that the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands will soon be held accountable in a court of law.
On Monday, March 12, 2007 at 1:00 P.M. at the Brook's Memorial Fountain Circle the family will release 36 balloons, one for each month that Mary has been missing. Please join us and meet Cliff & Anita Marshall and their family.
In the meantime as we wait, we all think about those famous lyrics of the Cops theme song…
Bad boys bad boys, Watcha gonna do, whatcha gonna do when they come for you?
A “Letter to the Editor” was written by Jerry A. Mains and appeared in the March 12, 2007 edition of the Marshall Chronicle. It needs to be answered for clarification and this is my response that will be sent to the Chronicle. Mr. Mains is a cousin to Mary Lands, and a nephew of Clifford Marshall.
It was indeed sad that a relative, who claims to know so much, could use 800 words, and say so little. Although I was asked by the Marshall family to respond I am sure that their own position will be made clear in another personal letter to Shelly Sulser of the Chronicle. I do not need to defend my actions or investigative endeavors on behalf of my work for Clifford & Anita Marshall. I have always acted ethically and within the law and if it occasionally causes a few people discomfort, so be it.
When I first came to Marshall, Michigan and inquired about Mary Lands many residents were afraid to speak about the case. Not only because they were in fear of the person/s who might be involved, but they also expressed a great fear of the police department. At first I questioned this attitude, but in two and a half years of talking with hundred of individuals I am more than convinced this is accurate. It is no secret that I believe dubious activities have occurred within the Marshall Police Department and there could be a connection to why no one has been charged and why the Mary Lands case has not been solved. I hope I am wrong, however it is common knowledge and I took my concerns to both the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Major Case Team investigators of the Michigan State Police. Chief Olson advised Mr. Marshall and I during a meeting last year that he was aware of my allegations. His response was, “By darn, if I find out any of that is true, the person will lose their job.” It is ironic that Mr. Mains was, in fact, one of the individuals who provided me with specific incidents and information involving alleged corruption. He had personal knowledge because it involved a close family member. He did not do anything at the time because the "action," or lack of action by law enforcement benefited his family. He provided this information not only to me, but also in front of other witnesses. I passed along that information and when investigators went to speak with those family members Mr. Mains told them to leave his property. I don’t need to mention the specifics now, but I am on record of having made the reports and I’ll repeat it again to anyone who is interested including other law enforcement, the media and the Marshall Chronicle.
Mr. Mains has not had any contact with the Marshall’s in over a year. I believe he is more upset because he is not orchestrating his usual spotlight on the 3rd anniversary of Mary’s disappearance. The family discussed various options on what they would do for Mary on March 12th and they decided on a small family event where 36 yellow balloons would be released at the fountain. One balloon for each of the 36 months that Mary has been missing.
Mr. Mains was critical of my numerous hours of investigation that he claims have not revealed anything of value, and were the results of others. He has no idea of what I have learned and the status of those developments, and has never even asked? I don’t need to justify my efforts to a fair-weather relative who only shows up for a yearly event. We know too many of those type individuals. We need friends and supporters who are with the family because they recognize the tragedy of this case and are always with the family. There are so many good people, friends and relatives, that have helped and they are the ones who give the Marshall family hope.
It is also no secret that in 2004 I decided to look at the frustrations of people involved in missing person’s cases and write a story about their feelings. Because I rapidly determined so much more it developed into a book, Missing or Murder in Marshall? The Disappearance of Mary Denise Lands. Mr. Mains, you are in error on another issue. The book is complete, but I am only waiting for the final chapter, which I hope, will include the conviction in a Calhoun County court of the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Lands. I continually go back and edit portions about people, incidents, and to update details and accuracy. I clearly only write what I can document and how I came to those conclusions. Some people will be pleased, and others may not? However, it will provide a deep insight on how this horrible and predicable grievous act came to occur on a vulnerable innocent woman. I could care less about any monies from this book. The Marshall’s have seen parts of it and it is dedicated to Cliff and Anita Marshall, their family, and all the families who have endured such a tragedy. Many times over the last two years I have asked the Marshall’s if I should give up my efforts and perhaps then the police would be more willing to solve this crime? They told me never to consider that option. If they wished me to cease my work, they would tell me.
Mr. Mains, for nearly three years I have been asking, “Where is Mary? And, When will we have justice for Mary?” I have donated nearly 6,000 hours in the last 30 months and spent well over $20,000 of my own funds. As a nephew of Clifford Marshall, what have you done for the family? Where were you when we were digging, crying, seeing hope on the horizon, and then seeing that hope fade away? I can’t personally handle much more. I don’t know how the Marshall’s have stood so strong in the last three years? They lost their daughter, and then they lost trust in a criminal justice system that was supposed to help them. Today, they then again experience anguish because of what you wrote about this case.
Mr. Mains, a final piece of irony that I hope you will ponder? In your own family you have a person in the medical profession who years ago was well aware that Mary was a severely battered woman, both physically and mentally. I documented this by December of 2004 through many different methods and this is an important part in the story of Mary Denise Lands. The family was totally shocked when they realized what had happened to their daughter, and other women. at the hands of the man that was involved in relationships with them. If that close person in your family had made an anonymous report to law enforcement, a shelter, a doctor, or to a family member who could have helped, perhaps Mary Denise Lands might not have been murdered? Domestic violence occurs because people don’t care and don’t want to get involved. When this is all over, if one person recognizes the tragedy of domestic violence in America, I’ll know I did the right thing. Can you say the same?
Jim Carlin
Update, March 11, 2007- Justinian Investigative Services said... A very dear friend of Cliff & Anita provided them with this lovely poem and they were deeply moved. Permission was approved for the poem to be anonymously published on behalf of Mary. It reads;
I think of you often As you may already know, Since trouble and turmoil Gave your life quite a blow.
I didn't know Mary Although I feel like I did, I can't even fathom The loss of a kid.
Justice for Mary Is all that you ask, Yet the police don't quite Seem up to the task.
Your name may be Marshall But it has no clout, Is that what this case Has become all about?
Where are the citizens Of this small Midwest town? Would you get more attention if you hired a clown?
Memorials and fundraisers And only family is there... Where are the people Who claim that they care?
Could they do this alone If it was their personal life? Or would they pray for support During their family's strife?
I look at Mary's picture With a tear in my eye, And wonder if she'll ever Get a proper Good-bye.
Friendship by circumstance "Family" by choice, I'd sacrific it all for you to hear Mary's voice.
Thoughts of no new memories I can only imagine how that stings, But I believe that she is free Toting halo and wings!!
Sunday, March 11, 2007 12:32:00 PM
The recent holiday season marked the 3rd Christmas that the family of Clifford & Anita Marshall have not been able to celebrate with their daughter, Mary Denise Lands. While most of America enjoyed the holidays and the New Year of 2007 the Marshall family continues to ask, Where is Mary? And, When will we have justice for Mary? We could never have come this far in our search for Mary without all the support of so many good people. We will bring Mary home in 2007 and justice will be served. On March 12, 2007 Mary Denise Lands will have been missing for 3 years. The investigation goes on and we all will never give up until the person/s responsible for Mary’s disappearance and murder is held accountable.
Anonymous said... With all the talk of drugs and abuse, domestic violence and such, why hasn't anyone called the Department of Family and Children Services? Child Protective Services has an obligation to investigate all reports of abuse and neglect. Alleged Drug use is neglect. Domestic Violence is Emotional and Psychological neglect. I am not sure how much policy varies from state to state and I know that the state I live in is one of the toughest when it comes to Child Protective Services. However, even if the state of Michigan isn't as tough on alleged crimes against children, you can email your Governor
with concerns for this family and the State Office will have to order that an investigation be conducted. Call your county DFCS office and make a report, make more than one. An investigation could be the thing that breaks this wide open. It will at least start a paper trail with Ms. Parker’s information and the information on her children. It may save her children from lasting psychological damage; it may save her children’s lives and possibly hers. In my state, if a custodial parent or caretaker tests positive for controlled substances the children get placed with a fit and willing relative (all potential placements are drug tested and checked out also). If Chris and Ms. Parker live together they would both have to take a Hair Follicle drug test. This type of drug analysis traces drug use back three and even four months prior to the testing. Also, if Domestic Violence is suspected, they would both have to complete a DV assessment. This may be helpful to Noreen if she is court ordered to attend group sessions to deal with domestic violence. If they tested positive for drugs they would have to complete a D&A assessment and attend D&A classes. The best thing would be if their case was substantiated and opened. Then they would have to complete a case plan, possible court ordered and someone would be checking on Noreen and the kids two to three times each month. They would also have the case manager make collateral contacts with people who know Noreen and Chris each month to gather any information needed to keep the children safe. Someone needs to report Ms. Parker and Chris. More than one person, everyone that understands that these children are at risk. These children are victims of Neglect and Abuse (it doesn’t have to be physical). The children’s safety is at risk, now and in the future.
Friday, February 02, 2007 12:40:00 PM
Justinian Investigative Services said... What a great comment that was just posted by the previous visitor... As a former investigator for the State of Michigan with DHS, formerly FIA, Children’s Protective Services, I now actually make 3-4 referrals per month that are usually substantiated in some manner. The problem is that the threshold is so high for CPS intervention that many become frustrated and don’t report their suspicions of abuse and neglect. As absurd as it may seem the use of drugs does not automatically trigger an investigation unless it is in a newborn infant. I personally have brought to the attention of State of Michigan authorities a certain matter in the Parker/Pratt residence and that is currently under investigation. This web site has been viewed by those in law enforcement and all we can hope is that at some point in time their residence will come under more scrutiny, and the children will be protected. I also have filed various complaints for what I believe to be criminal actions by Ms. Parker. It includes perjury for her false statements in a Personal Protection Order (PPO) affidavit and in her testimony under oath in Calhoun County Circuit Court. A small claims action is also pending to recover monies for the signs that were taken by Ms. Parker. Update- February 26, 2007-So much for "justice," civil and criminal.. Today I received a letter from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Western Michigan advising me that Norrene S. Parker filed for bankruptcy, Case # 07-01070-jdg on February 16, 2007. My name was noted as a creditor in a lawsuit, for $525.00. This involves our loss of the Mary Lands signs. View the Norrene Shawne Parker -You Tube Video, nearly 10,000 people have now seen her taking the sign and are following the Mary Lands case. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N40G3FkBXE8 I don’t quite understand why she doesn’t wait until the pending court action in Calhoun County is completed because my listing would appear to be improper at this time. Her filing is a public record and available to anyone who is seeking the information. I guess Mr. Pratt’s pending marriage to her will be on hold so he does not have to be a party to the bankruptcy? Great guy! He really knows how to support his lady. As I have said all along, If Ms. Parker would apologize I would be glad to close the matter. She has enough going on in her life.
February 9, 2007- A small claims action against Norrene Shawne Parker has been proceeding in Calhoun County, Michigan. Because the complaint alleges intentional torts- theft and destruction of Mary Lands' signs, the claim was removed from small claims division, pursuant to state law (MCLA 600.8424(1). On February 8, 2007 a new action, Case # 07-1007 GC is now pending in the general division of Tenth District Court. We will keep you advised. It is a shame that her boy-friend doesn’t participate more in these dubious actions, but why should be get involved when he has a woman handing his dirty work? You Tube Video- Mary's signs being removed by Norrene S. Parker-Click on link-http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N40G3FkBXE8 I still believe that within a short time Ms. Parker will realize how she is being manipulated and will escape from this dysfunctional domestic situation. Thank you for your comments. If you like, anyone can make complaint if they believe their suspicions are valid. You may contact State of Michigan, Calhoun County Children’s Protective Services, 190 East Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan 49016. Telephone- 269.966.1331. Do as the previous comment notes, send a copy of your referral and complaint to Governor Granholm.
Friday, February 02, 2007 1:32:00 PM
Comment excerpt from www.JusticeforMary.blogspot.comJustinian Investigative Services said... Concerning the last comment about Norrene Parker and Chris Pratt... The family and I will never cease our work in bringing to justice the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands. Be assured that there are many more endeavors going on both from our end, and by the police. Ms. Parker and Mr. Pratt's jobs have nothing to do with Mary’s case and it would be improper for anyone to hamper their employment efforts. However, it has been gratifying that we hear so many positive comments and pieces of information from colleagues and co-workers at State Farm Insurance office headquarters in Kalamazoo and the Target Distribution Center in Galesburg. Norrene has now been served and will have to answer in court her actions about Mary's signs. It is to bad that we don't have Mr. Pratt on video removing the signs, but obviously she was manipulated once again to do the dirty-work. Cowards have a big mouth and boast of their strength and macho manners, but we all observed the compassion he gave his girl-friend during the court hearing in December. While she occasionally cried in trying to explain the circumstances, the great hunter sat in the back row of the courtroom emotionless, with absolutely no affect, and offered no support. The Marshall family and I do not wish to pursue this matter in court and an apology would resolve the case. However, I will make this perfectly clear. Ms. Parker, you know you are involved in other dubious incidents since you commenced your relationship with Christopher Luke Pratt. You obviously are now both aware of the “trash dives” that have been going on for quite some time. Ironically, Mr. Pratt is the one who usually places the trash can in the street for pickup. Think about what could have been in all that trash? Those contents could come back to haunt you and Mr. Pratt, and I’ll be the person in court to say from where they were properly retrieved. Norrene, don’t be manipulated, and don’t be a victim. No one cares about your relationship and you are free to make your own choices. However, there are many who care about the health and welfare of you and your children and you all need to be safe. You need to think about contacting agencies that handle issues related to abused women and domestic violence. Some are the Calhoun County Prosecutor's Office- 269.969.6980, Safe Place- 269- 269.965.7233 and Child Advocacy Center in Marshall- 269.727.0075. This particular issue and others related to the Mary Lands case now have nearly 250 comments. They may be viewed and you can post additional comments at www.JusticeforMary.blogspot.com __________________________________________________________________________________ January 1, 2007- One of the great tools of law enforcement and civil and criminal investigators are dumpster or trash dives. Once a person places their trash or garbage at the curb for disposal they lose any expectation of their right to privacy. It can be retrieved by anyone and often the police can utilize the contents of trash in their investigation of any criminal activity. People should be extremely careful of what they discard in the trash because criminals can use the information for fraud and identity theft. Use a shredder and protect yourself and family so that documents and papers you don't want found by others, will not be found. I have done hundreds of these trash dives in my career and they are often wet, messy and odorous, but they do yield valuable results. On the left is a note and one piece of information that was retrieved from trash placed on the street by Mary’s former boy-friend, Christopher L. Pratt. He now resides in a rural residence at 9018 15 1/2 Mile Road, Fredonia Township, in Marshall, Michigan with his new girl-friend, Norrene S Parker. One has to wonder if there might be domestic violence now occurring in the Parker/Pratt home, and if she and her children are safe?
An interesting observation that may be accurate in this case…
People who engage in sociopathic behavior want to be in control and manipulate others. They often resent pets and animals that might be receiving attention and affection that they believe is only meant for them. I have ascertained that many pets and animals in the households of the women involved with Mr. Pratt have mysteriously disappeared or been injured over the years. This is well documented and can be proven. I find it strange that this same unusual occurrence might have happened in Norrene Parker’s life as she moved in with Mr. Pratt. The story goes that she had two lovable cats as pets, "Banjo" and "Nipper". One of the cats was poisoned, and the other disappeared, however neighbors reported that Nipper eventually returned to a previous residence occupied by Ms. Parker. That would appear to be great news, but Nipper never was relocated to their new house on F Drive & 15 1/2 Mile Road. Mr. Pratt reportedly did not want Norrie's pets in their home. I don’t know how true this is, only Ms. Parker really knows, but it doesn't say much for the way someone should act in a relationship? Is it that Chris Pratt doesn't like cats, women, or people in general? I don’t know how true this is, but I wouldn’t want to take the chance.
In my opinion, Ms. Parker should not only be worried about pets, but concerned for her safety and that of her children.
If Mary was here today she would want to promote public awareness on the national tragedy of domestic violence, and speak to Ms. Parker and others. Take a few minutes from the happiness and joy of your holiday season and think about Mary Denise Lands as you read about abuse and domestic violence.
Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, or psychological. Physical and sexual violence by an intimate partner are common problems, affecting 20-50% of women at some stage in life in most populations surveyed globally. Between 3% and 50% of women have experienced it in the past year. Domestic violence has a profound impact on the physical and mental health of those who experience it. As well as injuries, it is associated with an increased risk of a range of physical and mental health problems and is an important cause of mortality from injuries and suicide. Review of international literature on risk of domestic violence shows that although it is greatest in relationships and communities where the use of violence in many situations is normative, notably when witnessed in childhood, it is substantially a product of gender inequality and the lesser status of women compared with men in society. Except for poverty, few social and demographic characteristics define risk groups. Poverty increases vulnerability through increasing relationship conflict, reducing women's economic and educational power, and reducing the ability of men to live in a manner that they regard as successful. Violence is used frequently to resolve a crisis of male identity. Domestic violence is often associated with heavy alcohol drinking. Research suggests that the different factors have an additive effect.
COMMON MYTHS AND WHY THEY ARE WRONG
Domestic violence is not a problem in my community. Michigan State Police records from 1997 show that a woman is killed by a partner or former partner about once a week in Michigan. In 1998, the Michigan State Police reported more than 5,000 victims of domestic violence in Oakland County. Domestic violence only happens to poor women and women of color. Domestic violence happens in all kinds of families and relationships. Persons of any class, culture, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, age, and sex can be victims or perpetrators of domestic violence. Some people deserve to be hit. No one deserves to be abused. Period. The only person responsible for the abuse is the abuser. Physical violence, even among family members, is wrong and against the law. Alcohol, drug abuse, stress, and mental illness cause domestic violence. Alcohol use, drug use, and stress do not cause domestic violence; they may go along with domestic violence, but they do not cause the violence. Abusers often say they use these excuses for their violence. (Michigan Judicial Institute, Domestic Violence Benchbook, 1998, p. 1.6 - 1.7) Generally, domestic violence happens when an abuser has learned and chooses to abuse. (Michigan Judicial Institute, Domestic Violence Benchbook, 1998, p. 1 - 5) Domestic violence is rarely caused by mental illness, but it is often used as an excuse for domestic violence. (Michigan Judicial Institute, Domestic Violence Benchbook, 1998, p. 1 - 8) Domestic violence is a personal problem between a husband and a wife. Domestic violence affects everyone. About 1 in 3 American women have been physically or sexually abused by a husband or boyfriend at some point in their lives. (Commonwealth Fund, Health Concerns Across a Woman's Lifespan: the Commonwealth Fund 1998 Survey of Women's Health, 1999) In 1996, 30% of all female murder victims were killed by their husbands or boyfriends. (Federal Bureau of Investigation, 1997) 40% to 60% of men who abuse women also abuse children. (American Psychological Association, Violence and the Family, 1996) If it were that bad, she would just leave. There are many reasons why women may not leave. Not leaving does not mean that the situation is okay or that the victim want to be abused. Leaving can be dangerous. The most dangerous time for a woman who is being abused is when she tries to leave. (United States Department of Justice, National Crime Victim Survey, 1995)
MANY VICTIMS DO LEAVE AND LEAD SUCCESSFUL, VIOLENCE FREE LIVES. Excerpt from Oakland County Coordinating Council Against Domestic Violence
PPO against P.I. Unsuccessful Judge denies protection order against P.I.; police step up efforts in missing woman case By Shelly Sulser, Marshall Chronicle- December 18, 2006 An author turned private detective probing the March 12, 2004 disappearance of Marshall woman, Mary Denise Lands is not guilty of stalking the girl-friend of Lands’ former boy-friend, Christopher Pratt, Calhoun County Probate Judge Gary Reed ruled. James E. Carlin of Battle Creek admitted on the witness stand December 11 to using a video recorder to capture Norrene Shawne Parker removing a "Justice for Mary" sign from the a public right-of-way near her 15 ½ Mile Road home last September 29 to determine who was stealing the signs. Carlin who then posted still pictures of Parker taking the sign on a public web (blog) site, said 11 signs worth $50 each are missing. That’s why he sat in a tree just north of the residence- to catch the thief, he testified. Reed ruled that though Carlin exercised poor judgement by intentionally placing the signs across the street from Pratt and Parker’s home, he was not operating outside the scope of his private detective license because he had permission from Pratt’s landlord, Roland Face, to place the signs. "This was a good day on behalf of the family of Mary Denise Lands," said Carlin. "Hopefully, the next time we come to court, it will be for the resolution of Mary’s case and the person/s responsible for her disappearance and murder will be held accountable. Parker, who, along with Pratt declined comment after the hearing, testified that she filed the petition for a personal protection order because Carlin had been seen by her son behind their home, that he posted the photos on the blog page, that Carlin tried to contact her at work and had contacted her sister, brother-in-law and father. "Mr. Carlin’s been following me, trying to speak to me since early June," Parker testified. He came to my office. He’s trying to obtain information about my boy-friend who I reside with." Carlin, who said he is a former New Jersey police officer. Became interested in the Lands case shortly after her disappearance and began interviewing people close to the case with the intention of writing a book, Missing or Murder in Marshall? The Disappearance of Mary Denise Lands. He later became a license private detective and began working on the case full time at no charge to the family. Carlin’s investigation has at times angered police as he and Lands’ family including her parents, Clifford and Anita Marshall, publicly criticized the now 33- month investigation through signs, pickets in front of the Marshall Police office, advertising, letters-to-the-editor and through their own efforts to generate information that would solve the mystery of what happened to the 39-year-old mother of two and grandmother of one. Lands reportedly vanished sometime after 10 p.m. on a Friday night after an argument with her then live-in-boyfriend, Pratt. She left behind her new Dodge Durango and her cell phone. The Marshall Police Department, however, continues to investigate her disappearance. Carlin and the Marshall family said they are encouraged by an apparent, recent flurry or new police interest in the case. "Prior to the Thanksgiving holiday, we learned there was a strong presence of investigators reviewing the case, and following up in the community on witnesses and information that had previously provided to law enforcement," Carlin wrote in a letter to Olson. "Det/Sgt. Mike Salmen of the Michigan State Police who is spearheading the investigative process for his agency is to be commended for his diligence and effort. We also wish to thank John Hallacy, Calhoun County Prosecutor as his office is now also providing investigators to assist the State Police with interviews, fact-finding, and the gathering of evidence." Olson confirmed Thursday that a series of tips received in the course of the investigation is being examined by officers from multiple agencies and jurisdictions. "We convened a group of investigators from area departments," said Olson, specifically Albion, Emmett Township, the MSP, Marshall, the Sheriff’s Office and the Calhoun County Prosecutor’s Office. What we’re doing is following up on several tips that have been received. Obviously every tip we want to get investigated." The officers, some whom also serve on the Calhoun County Major Crimes Task Force that initially handled the case, have talked with many people about many different leads, and include State Police detectives from Battle Creek, Hastings, Paw Paw and White Pigeon. "We threw a lot of resources at it. There is nothing is getting overlook," said Olson. "Scott McDonald, (Sgt., Marshall Police Department) the lead investigator on the case continues to manage and investigate the case along with the Michigan State Police, who remain active, also." The reason for the organized effort is simply to exhaust the list of tips in a timely manner. "We felt it important to get them all done," said Olson, who said the effort is still ongoing and that some of the leads are in varying stages of investigation." While Carlin and the Lands’ family have been vocal in their criticisms of police in the past, they plan to start 2007 with "an amicable and respectful" manner toward police, said Carlin in a letter to Olson, in which he also notes that legal action is being pursued by the Marshall’s to get police to release Lands’ Dodge Durango to the family. "Let us forget about any mistakes of the past and concentrate on a successful prosecution in the near future that will restore Anita and Clifford Marshall’s trust in the justice system," Carlin said. "The time for criticism is over and the time for unity is at hand." Olson said the vehicle is likely to remain in police custody due to the possibility it could still contain trace evidence. We’ll be meeting with the prosecutor (John Hallacy) next Tuesday to discuss the merits of returning the vehicle," said Olson. "Clearly, if there is any evidentiary value, we won’t release it." In court Monday, Parker objected to the "Justice for Mary" signs being placed at the corner of F Drive South and 15 ½ Mile Road because the location is her childrens’ bus stop, she testified. She also testified that Monday’s hearing was the first time she had ever seen Carlin face to face. "I did remove the signs because they’re not pleasant signs, " she said. "They’re signs they use to picket and they target Christopher." Parker testified that she did not steal the signs but that when she called Michigan State Police Trooper Annette Poehlman to complain, Poelhman allegedly told her to take down the signs and turn them over to police. "I took it to our property and that sign was turned over to Trooper Poehlman," She testified about the sign appearing in the photos on the web page. Capt. Matt Saxon of the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, who received a complaint about signs being stolen in the area of the Parker and Pratt’s home, said then that signs and other objects placed in public right-of-way without permission of the road commission are considered abandoned property and may be removed. A report, however, has been forwarded to the Calhoun County Prosecutor’s office for review. Parker also testified that it was Poehlman, who was not present at the hearing, who advised her to seek a personal protection order against Carlin. Carlin’s attorney, Peter Hirsch, pointed out that police did not arrest Carlin for violating any laws. Carlin testified he began trying to contact Parker after learning of her living arrangement with Pratt. "About five months ago when I learned she was living with Mr. Pratt, I tried to contact her about information I had about women in Mr. Pratt’s life being physically and mentally abused," Carlin testified. During questioning by Parker, Carlin testified he had permission to be on the property across the street and that he had not "stepped foot" onto the Parker and Pratt residential land. "That’s my children’s bus stop," Parker said to Carlin who replied, "I've never harassed you, I’ve only tried to contact you on behalf of the family of Mary Denise Lands." During questioning by Reed, Carlin explained he placed a sign at the corner because, "I believed Mr. Pratt was taking the signs and I was trying to document that." Parker tearfully noted that she had seen many signs seeking information about Lands’ disappearance "which I think are positive and good and if they were in my yard, that would be good but not a picket sign. "I feel we were targeted," she continued. "This is hurtful to everybody. We want to find her as much as you and the whole blog, I just don’t want anymore comments about myself, my work, my children, or threats about calling CPS (Child Protective Services) on my children. It’s just sickening. Parker told Carlin, "You have the whole county, you obviously knew it would be hurtful. Just address the fact that everyone in this situation is human." Parker family members who spoke to Carlin were apparently concerned about Parker’s relationship with "the boyfriend she has living in her house," Hirsch said during the hearing. "This does not make out to be stalking which is why there never was a warrant from the police," said Hirsch. "Even Ms. Parker indicates that the putting up of signs and trying to raise consciousness about the missing Mary Denise Lands- she said she and everyone wants to find Mary Denise Lands. This is a legitimate purpose Mr. Carlin is doing for the family of Mary Denise Lands and he’s not doing anything that isn’t constitutionally protected." Parker continued to argue, however, that "We don’t get the nice signs you’re talking about." In his ruling, Reed noted that personal protection orders are typically granted for cases of domestic violence and stalking. Harassment, he said, must be repeated conduct according to the law. Reed also noted that information about Parker on the website is public information that does not violate her right to privacy and that Carlin calling her family members and leaving his business card at her place of employment are not privacy violations in any way. Do I think he exercised poor judgement when he placed the signs so close to their property?" said Reed. "Yes, Has it reoccurred? Apparently not since Sept. 29. The ultimate issue is, does the action amount to harassment? Stalking? No, it does not.
December 27, 2006- Justinian Investigative Services said... on www.JusticeforMary.blogspot.com THIS STORY HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE SPECIFICS OF THE MARY LANDS CASE, BUT IT DOES DEPICT HOW DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AFFECTS EVERYONE. THE LAST PARAGRAPH IS TYPICAL; DILLING HAS BEEN A VICTIM OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE BEFORE. "SHE HAD TO TRY AND BREAK AWAY FROM HIM AND HE WOULD NOT LEAVE HER ALONE." SHE SAID.
Man jailed in assault, fire Trace Christenson, The Enquirer
A Battle Creek woman is recovering from injuries after police said her boyfriend tried to kill her with a knife and baseball bat before setting her house on fire. Rannette Dilling, 36, is staying with a friend after the home she shared with her three children was heavily damaged early Tuesday. "Emotionally it has not even hit yet," said Joy Hernandez, a friend of Dilling's. "We are going to try and get her some help for counseling." Hernandez said the Red Cross is helping the family, and friends are trying to establish a fund to help Dilling and her three children. Dilling declined an interview with the Enquirer, but she told Battle Creek police she was awakened about 2:40 a.m. in her home at 1037 W. Michigan Ave. with Steven Gilliard choking her. Gilliard, 38, and Dilling have three children together and a 10-year relationship although she told police she ended the relationship four years ago. Battle Creek police reported that Dilling was assaulted with a knife and baseball bat and was kicked and had her head slammed against a wall. Dilling told police Gilliard grabbed her by the throat and asked, "Are you ready to die?" He later asked her what she wanted her last words to be. "This man lost it," Hernandez said Tuesday. "He tried to kill her and her children while she was sleeping in the house." Dilling was sleeping on a couch in the living room of the two-story house when she was attacked. Four children, including the couple's two daughters ages 12 and 13, and son, 7, and a friend of the children, a girl, 12, were in the house. Police said the couple's daughters called police and refused to leave the area when their father told them to go upstairs. Dilling told police, "my daughter would not leave me. If she had left me he would have killed me." Police said when the first two officers arrived they found Gilliard in the living room holding a wooden bat. When police told him to drop it or he would be shot, he told them that is what he wanted to happen. Dilling and the children were able to leave the house and Gilliard, after being sprayed with pepper spray, went to the basement, where police said he began hitting the natural gas line to the furnace with the bat. Police shut off the gas line and members of the Emergency Response Team surrounded the house. About 30 minutes later, police saw smoke and firefighters later went into the basement and pulled Gilliard out, police Lt. Duane Knight said. Gilliard was taken to Battle Creek Health System for treatment of smoke inhalation and then to the county jail where he is being held on charges of home invasion, assault with intent to murder and arson. Police said he has been on parole since Dec. 1, 2004 after a conviction of damaging police property. He is expected to be arraigned today in Calhoun County District Court. Fire Marshal Ralph Britton said he found two places where fires were started in the basement and first floor. He estimated damaged to the home and contents at $105,000. Hernandez said Dilling has been a victim of domestic violence before.
"She had to try to break away from him and he would not leave her alone," she said.
Trace Christenson covers crime and courts. He can be reached at 966-0685 or tchrist@battlecr.gannett.com.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006 5:21:00 PM
Judge Denies Request by Norrene Parker for Personal Protection Order (PPO) on Stalking Allegations Against Mary Lands Investigator
December 11, 2006- January 12, 2007 will be the 34th month that Mary Denise Lands has been listed as missing and a victim of foul play. The family and I have not had much positive news from the police and the courts, but today Mary is smiling down upon us all from heaven. We had a small victory in a Calhoun County Courtroom, which might mean that better days are to come in the New Year of 2007. As you know, I obtained video documentation of Norrene Parker removing Mary’s signs located near a residence she shares with her boy-friend, Chris Pratt. After I obtained the video and filed a criminal complaint with the Calhoun County Sheriff she attempted to secure an emergency exparte order for protection against me for stalking. Judge Gary Reed denied the request but Ms. Parker then asked for a hearing and it was scheduled for October 30, 2006. The hearing was continued because Ms. Parker advised the court she could not attend because there was a death in her family. People familiar with the couple advised that Mr. Pratt attended a meeting that morning, and fellow-workers at her place of employment verified Ms. Parker was at work. The matter was rescheduled for December 11, 2006.
After approximately 45 minutes of testimony Calhoun County Judge Gary K. Reed denied Ms. Parker’s request citing that stalking and harassment were not shown and obviously as a private investigator he could find no conduct that was criminal or would even warrant the issuance of a PPO.
Ms. Parker made several claims that were proven not to be true. She alleged that "Justice for Mary" signs were placed on her rented property and I was on that property taking pictures and scaring her children. She admitted taking two of Mary’s signs, but started she did so at the request of a trooper from the Michigan State Police. She alleged in her complaint that I was with a female in a white vehicle placing signs on her property and harassing her family. An affidavit was obtained from the owner of the vehicle in question and the witness stated she never met me nor did she ever engage in assisting with the placement of Mary’s signs throughout the county. Ms. Parker further stated that I harassed her at work, and contacted her relatives for purposes of stalking. It was interesting to note that she stated she had never seen me before the hearing this morning. On direct examination I was asked why I attempted to contact Ms. Parker’s father and sister and responded that over the last two years I have documented evidence that Mr. Pratt has mentally and physically abused at least two women, one of whom is missing today. My purpose in attempting to reach her was that I fear for the safety of herself and her children. An interesting point blatantly stood out at the hearing. Christopher Luke Pratt sat in a back row of the courtroom. He did not testify on behalf of Ms. Parker and remained throughout the hearing with an emotionless expression on his face.
We have spent a considerable amount of money on signs and other media to further promote public awareness for Mary’s case.The only reason I returned to an area near the Parker/Pratt residence was to document the identity of the individual stealing our signs. I did so and a complaint was filed with the Calhoun County Sheriff and a small claims action is also pending in 10th District Court.
It was sad to see Ms. Parker, a frail appearing woman at the hearing who occasionally broke out in tears in trying to explain the situation. Unfortunately, her allegations were totally false and it is a tragedy that she is being manipulated and duped by Mr. Pratt. No one would ever let a loved one make this type of presentation without wanting to give testimony to support her claims. Mr. Pratt never stepped forward to testify. One has to wonder why he was there?
Mary’s Dad, Clifford Marshall left the courtroom after the hearing and said this was a good day for the family and the justice system finally has shown them some hope. We have all been highly optimistic over the last month because of a flurry of action by investigators following up on interviews, fact finding, and the gathering of evidence. We also hope to put away our criticism of the Marshall Police Department. Yes, mistakes were made in the past, however today we should go forward into the New Year and await a successful prosecution of the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands.
Ms. Parker also complained that the Mary Lands web-site and Blog was slandering her name. I totally disagree, as did the court because the matter was not even addressed. This is constitutionally approved public content and what she did with Mary’s signs were contrary to law. I have never once stepped on the Parker/Pratt rental property and our signs were all lawfully placed. We would like to avoid any further discomfort to Ms. Parker. If she, or Mr. Pratt would apologize for removing Mary's signs we would be glad to close the matter and dismiss the small claims action pending in District Court.
I would ask all of our friends and supporters not to condemn or criticize Ms. Parker. I wish her the best and I only hope that at some time in the future we do not learn that she has become another victim of domestic violence. I know that her family deeply cares for her and only wants their daughter to have the best. My recommendation is that she seek immediate professional counseling and confront the issue of Domestic Violence and who and what defines a battered woman? It might save her life one day and it could only improve conditions in any relationship now or in the future. She owes it not only to herself, but to the children she is raising.
December 7, 2006- Justinian Investigative Services said... On November 4, 2006 on behalf of the family of Cliford & Anita Marshall I posted a comment on how things traditionally slow down during the holiday season, and that Mary's case might not be actively investigated by members of law enforcement. We still fault the Marshall Police Department for its initial mishandling of this case, but we also must give credit, when credit is warranted. Prior to the Thanksgiving holiday we learned there was a very strong presence of investigators reviewing the case, and following up in the community on witnesses and information that had been previously provided to them by myself and the family. D/Sgt. Michael Salmen of the Michigan State Police who is spearheading the investigative process for his agency is to be highly commended for his diligence and effort. We also wish to thank John Hallacy, Calhoun County Prosecutor as his office is now also providing investigators to assist the State Police with interviews, fact finding, and the gathering of evidence. The family and I have previously been very vocal in our criticism because of our belief that a sufficient amount of resources have not been utilized to help solve Mary’s case. Numerous individuals have contacted the family over the last three weeks, and as recently as today, that earnest ongoing efforts are being made by the Michigan State Police to identify the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands. Although many people in government and the private sector would rather take their work in stride and enjoy the happiness of this holiday season, we greatly appreciate the efforts of Prosecutor John Hallacy, D/Sgt. Mike Salmen, Det. Mike Scott, and others. It gives the family great comfort that we might soon have the answers to our questions, Where is Mary? and, When will we have Justice for Mary? Thank you for the demonstration of your desire to obtain answers to this family tragedy. As I have stated many times before, if anyone in the community has information about Mary’s disappearance please contact D/Sgt. Salmen at the Battle Creek Post of the Michigan State Police- 269.968.6115.
Thursday, December 07, 2006 4:50:00 PM
November 27, 2006- Justinian Investigative Services said... Upon arriving in court this morning on Monday, November 27, 2006 and being ready to proceed in the Calhoun County Circuit Court PPO hearing requested by Ms. Parker, I learned she was not present. I was advised that Ms. Parker requested a continuance because of the death of a family member. My condolences. The PPO hearing has been rescheduled for December 11, 2006, Judge Gary K Reed, presiding in Room 249. Monday, November 27, 2006 12:18:00 PM
November 19, 2006 Anonymous said... First of all, to all of Mary's family, we don't know each other, but you are in my thoughts every day. I know that at times the frustration and the seemingly lack of interest on the part of some law enforcement adds greatly to the burden that has already been placed on you.
Jim, this latest development is the most absurd thing that could be fathomed. If you find any of my following comments inappropriate, please feel free to delete.
Ms. Parker, it's time for you to stand up on your own and stop being a puppet for Mr. Pratt. He obviously has something to fear - is that not obvious to you? Do you honestly think that he values your life? Abusive people make a habit of striking out at those who they deem inferior - believe me, he sees you as just that sort of person. Most abusers start out emotionally beating their target. Does he call you (among other things) "stupid"? Does he degrade you in front of others? Do you think that if you just "love him enough" that he will change? Trust me, he won't. And if you don't want to meet the same fate as many others in a domestic violence situation, you'll get out while you can.
Ms. Parker, did you think up this stalking complaint against Mr. Carlin, or did Mr. Pratt whine and complain until you went forward with it? My guess is that Pratt is the driving force behind it. Ask yourself why. Why would he want Mary's signs removed? Why, after professing early in the investigation that he wanted to do everything that he could to find Mary, would he condone your removing those signs? Why would he care if Mr. Carlin and Mary's family went to Mary's residence to see if there were any clues that might have been overlooked? Why, Ms. Parker? Why is he so anxious to "get at" those who are simply trying to find out what happened to Mary?
Mary never harmed you Ms. Parker. Although I never knew her, she comes through loud and clear through her family. If your roles were reversed, she would never have taken part in hindering an investigation. But, I guess that you were born under a luckier star, weren't you; and with that you shoulder the responsibility of helping a victim who has been silenced.
Sunday, November 19, 2006 7:37:00 PM
Update- November 19, 2006 Justinian Investigative Services said... Thank you for the very appropriate comments. They are exactly as the family and I perceive the issues. The stalking allegations are bogus and I will prove that to the court on November 27th. We tried to determine who was stealing the signs and surveillance was conducted in many locations. It is often difficult to prove who is engaging in criminal activity? We were fortunate enough to capture the theft through digital imagery. Most victims don't have that opportunity. It will be up to the Prosecutor's Office to determine if our criminal complaint has merit? It will be up to a judge in District Court (Small Claims) to determine if our civil complaint also has merit? Evidence will be presented of Ms. Parker removing the signs. That will speak for itself.
Sunday, November 19, 2006 8:11:00 PM
November 18, 2006- Justinian Investigative Services said... And the latest.... If anyone would like to go to court to support the family and I concerning the Mary Lands case we would welcome your help. Approximately nine weeks ago numerous "Justice for Mary" signs were stolen in Calhoun County. These signs were placed throughout Marshall to promote public awareness about the disappearance of Mary Denise Lands. In attempting to ascertain the identity of the person/s removing Mary's signs photographic evidence was obtained of the perpetrator. On October 16, 2006 a criminal complaint was filed with the Calhoun County Sheriff, and a small claims action is now also pending to recover costs. These actions are against Norrene S. Parker. On October 19, 2006 Ms. Parker signed a complaint against me for stalking and requested a Personal Protection Order. This afternoon, November 19th Trooper Ann Poehlman of the Michigan State Police came to my home and gave me a Notice of Hearing on Petition for Personal Protection Order. The case number is 06-3799PP. The matter will be heard on November 27, 2006 at the Calhoun County Criminal Justice Center in Court Room # 249, by Judge Gary K. Reed. I look forward to a court hearing and disputing the allegations of Ms. Parker, and fully explaining my actions.
Saturday, November 18, 2006 9:02:00 PM
November 17, 2006- Justinian Investigative Services said... I hope that the last Anonymous comment turns out to be true. The family of Mary Denise Lands will soon have the answer to their questions, Where is Mary? and When will we have justice for Mary? To the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands, and to those who would intimidate and batter any person with physical and mental abuse, I recently read a great remark and it is a message to you.... Throughout history the way of truth and love has always won. There have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time they can seem invincible. But in the end they always fall. Think of it. Always. Mohandas K. Gandhi
Friday, November 17, 2006 3:01:00 PM
November 16, 2006- Anonymous said... the net is closing in Marshall and all their trash is about ready to be picked up. it's about time that Mary Lands gets JUSTICE!!!! Thursday, November 16, 2006 8:44:00 AM
November 11, 2006- Justinian Investigative Services said... In regard to the question about the theft of Mary's signs... Many were placed throughout Calhoun County however most were stolen near the area of the F Drive South overpass of I-69 & 15 1/2 Mile Road. A criminal complaint was filed with the Calhoun County Sheriff on October 16, 2006. In follow-up, I was advised on November 7, 2006 by Capt. Matt Saxon of the CCSD that the complaint is being reviewed by Chief Assistant Prosecutor, Dan Buscher to determine if the complaint has merit. Mr. Buscher's email is DBuscher@calhouncountymi.gov His telephone number is 269.969.6980. If you have any information about this incident or the Mary Lands case you are urged to contact his office, or D/Sgt. Mike Salmen of the Michigan State Police, Battle Creek Post, 269.965.8115. The family of Mary Lands hopes that a criminal complaint will be filed against Noreen Parker. We will also provide some addition information next week concerning the theft and destruction of the "Justice for Mary" signs.
Saturday, November 11, 2006 10:03:58 AM
October 29, 2006- Justinian Investigative Services said...from www.JusticeforMary.blogspot.com In the last two years Mary's family has placed paid advertisements in the Battle Creek Enquirer and the Marshall Chronicle. They recently submitted a "Letter to the Editor" to those publications, however letters are usually held to approximately 250 words and Mary's family had much more to say. We do not know if their letter will be published, however we wanted to make it available on Mary's sites...
A Mother & Father Ask, "WHY?"
March 2004 was supposed to be a wonderful time for our family. We would soon be great-grandparents, and our daughter Mary would be a grandmother. We had just moved to California, but little did we know that March 2004 would turn into a nightmare from which we would never recover.
A phone call on Sunday, March 16, 2004 informed us our daughter Mary was missing. Something was terribly wrong and we called the Marshall Police to investigate. After several hours they said Mary and her boyfriend had an argument on Friday, March 12 at about 10:00 P.M. He claimed after the argument she walked away from their apartment in 13-degree weather wearing only lightweight clothing and her favorite brown leather jacket with a purse- no keys, no cell phone and no car.
Our move West left Mary with no one in Michigan to advocate on her behalf and we needed to help find her. We packed up again and drove 3,000 miles back to Marshall to a horror that ensues to this day.
A week after Mary disappeared; the Marshall Police dismissed the FBI and a Task Force. It's been a very long 32 months since our Mary disappeared. 32 months our hearts have ached, 32 months we have cried ourselves to sleep, 32 months of searching and waiting for information. Imagine the anxiety and pain you feel when another body is found? Praying it’s our beloved Mary, so we can finally put her to rest; but praying it’s not her, because it’s the final end. 32 months she hasn’t seen or talked to her son, daughter, sisters or brother, 32 months of never knowing her grandson. 32 months without our Mary.
We are so lonely for her and our fight to find Justice for Mary. It has been very frustrating. She would never walk away. It wasn’t her nature. She was excited about being a grandmother and planning her vacation to California.
We later learned that during the 3-year relationship with her boyfriend she was a severely battered woman, both physically and mentally. She received broken fingers, broken toes, a dislocated shoulder, and many many bruises from being battered. WHY?
Please help us find Mary Denise Marshall-Lands.
From Her Beloved Family – “You’ll never be forgotten and we’ll never stop looking for you!”
Sunday, October 29, 2006 1:13:17 PM
Update, October 28, 2006- Gina said... from www.JusticeforMary.blogspot.comJim, you have done a wonderful job for our family in helping to not only find Mary, but keeping the word out that she is still missing. We wouldn't be where we are today without you. Keep up the good work. We rely upon you and know that you and with the help of others will find her. For everyone out there who has helped us search for Mary and continues to help us search for Mary and have provided emotional support to our family, THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts. You will never know how truly we appreciate everything you are doing to help us. It is really a shame that Mary's signs are being destroyed, especially by Chris because he professed to always love her and never give up searching for her. I think it only strengthens our efforts to get the signs placed throughout Marshall. That said, I urge each one of you who post to this site to please display Mary's sign in your yard as a constant reminder that she is still missing. It is so easy for everyone to forget and continue to go on about their lives. If you hunt, are on a hike or walking around the beautiful areas of Marshall, take a closer look at your surroundings. there may be something there you overlooked that could be a clue to finding her. Please remember when you post on this blog that Mary's family reads everything here. We are still hurting and crying that our beautiful Mary is gone. We want justice for Mary and be able to bring her home to put her to rest. We will grieve the rest of our lives for our loss. As the previous post said, this site is for Mary, not for others to vent their issues. Please find some other way to vent whatever issues you have somewhere else. We trust Jim, believe in him and know that truth and justice will win in the end.
October 27, 2006- Anonymous said... from www.JusticeforMary.blogspot.comIs it not time for election? Who is over the Marshall police? Is there anybody out there that is willing to take office and help in this matter? I cannot believe that the FBI has not been involved yet. Why is that? I know people like Chris Pratt and they will never change or tell the truth. It is like Jim said, they have no conscience. In fact, Chris probably enjoys all the attention and loves thinking he is smarter than anyone else on the planet. This is the most dangerous type of personality. As for Ms. Parker I think her actions make her look guilty too. I do not have any sympathy for her, only her children. I agree that someone should send CPS out to the house to have a look. I also believe that if anybody took the pictures to State Farm she would be terminated due to an ethics violation. Pressure will not make Chris talk. If he is ignored and his deed does not get him the attention he thinks he so deserves, that is when he may make a mistake. Keep putting all the attention on Mary, which is probably why the signs make him crazy. If you see him ignore him, turn the other way; do not give him the satisfaction of even acknowledging that he is alive. This was not a crime of passion. It was the crime of a person that wanted to see what he could get away with. He will get bored with this and strike again. He likes his fifteen minutes of fame. I wonder how he will feel about life in prison. Forgive me if this message seems too strong, but I myself have been victimized by a person like him and I cannot even begin to tell you what it will do to your life. I pray for Mary’s family. My heart is with them always.
Justinian Investigative Services said... In follow-up to the previous comment about the upcoming Marshall City election I have this to share. Approximately a month ago I wrote to every person on the Marshall City Council, and to every candidate for election to council and mayor. Many letters were even hand-delivered. I did this on behalf of the family of Mary Lands asking for their support and informed each person that the Marshall family would like to meet with them to discuss the case. I only had 2 responses from about a total of 17. One present council member who claimed to be a former police officer thought our protest efforts were not worthwhile. The only other individual who took the time to contact me was a gentleman by the name of Lou Giannunzio who is not presently in the Marshall government and is running for Mayor. It was his hope that if elected he will speak with Chief Olson about the case and try to work with the family to resolve the issues. I don't know how much of a chance Mr. Giannunzio has in being elected Mayor, but he has our support. This is a perfect example of how the family of Mary Lands is not respected and how some people in government cannot even express empathy for their tragedy. Some time ago I wrote that Marshall, Michigan was a lovely and beautiful place to live and work, but evil things can and do occur in the best of places. Something very evil occurred on March 12, 2004 and that evil lingers to this date. No wonder Chief Mike Olson doesn't have a clue? Like many others, he just doesn't care.
October 26, 2006- Because of its important to the case, an individual asked this question about a lie detector test. It is being re-published with my remarks from www.JusticeforMary.blogspot.com
Just as you have, people for many months have been asking the same question, Did Mr. Pratt ever take a lie detector test? I don't believe the police have made any comment one way or the other, but I can tell you what was told to me by Mr. Pratt, himself. According to my notes, I asked him this question in September 2004. He smirked and laughed and said he failed the test. I asked him why and he stated he was at home drunk at the time and taking medication to help him sleep. He received a call from the Marshall Police Department and they wanted him to come to the station and answer some questions. He told the police that he shouldn't drive because he had been drinking and he stated the cops told him, Don't worry, we won't arrest you for drunk driving. According to Mr. Pratt, he failed the test because he was confused about his name? He usually goes by Chris, however the person asked him if his name was Christopher Pratt, and he became confused during the test. Later he was told by the police that he failed the examination. He thought the entire incident was quite funny and all the police really did was talk with him about hunting. I have no idea if in fact a polygraph examination was actually given to Mr. Pratt or was this some type of charade the police were doing to rattle him? Usually there would be a very thorough pre-interview and the polygraph examiner actually reviews the questions with the person taking the test. There is no deception in these tests and I believe they are quite valid. It is the physiological responses that indicate truth or deception. What I do know is that polygraph examiners of the Michigan State Police are highly qualified professionals who know their job. I have no doubt that if Mr. Pratt was drinking or taking medications there would be no test administered. No polygraph examiner in the country, in law enforcement or the private sector, would risk their certification to conduct a test under these conditions. Mr. Pratt stated to me that he went to the Marshall Police Department laughing and he returned home laughing that the police were so "stupid." He further commented that he has only spoken to the police once and I have no information to indicate he was ever contacted again about the Mary Lands investigation. Chief Mike Olson boasts about this issue, and has told people publicly, Mr. Pratt has not been interviewed again because we don't want him to "lawyer up". In my opinion, that is a very odd remark from a police chief who is the person responsible for primary jurisdiction of the Mary Lands case. To me, this is similar to his statement that Mary's Dodge Durango has always been held as evidence. In reality, it is just another reason why a more professional law enforcement agency should take over primary jurisdiction of this case. In my opinion, he doesn't have a clue on how to run a murder investigation.
Thursday, October 26, 2006 8:12:52 AM
Who is Noreen Parker and why is she destroying Mary's signs?
Update, October 15, 2006- Numerous signs have been placed throughout Calhoun County, Michigan on behalf of the Mary Lands case. They depict; Justice for Mary, When will we have justice for Mary? and many other themes bringing public awareness to the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands. These signs have been torn down and destroyed almost as quickly as they were placed. Video and still image documentation has determined the perpetrators to these improper actions. The individual in these photographs and other video is Noreen Parker. She is the current girl-friend of Chris Pratt, Mary Lands' former boy-friend. They reside near F Drive South and 15 1/2 Mile Road in Marshall, Michigan. These signs were placed legally and were vandalized and destroyed by Ms. Parker and others. Ms. Parker was visible on a public street and other locations and all photographs were obtained legally without any violation of privacy. What people do in public and plain view can be recorded and documented. It is well known that Mr. Pratt has never been involved with the family in helping to bring answers to Mary's disappearance. He may have moved on to a new beau, but one would think he would at least help the family in their efforts to bring Mary home. His behavior and this conduct do not appear to be the actions of a grieving fiance. Many more videos and photographs will be published soon. In follow-up, on October 16, 2006 a complaint was made to the Calhoun County Sheriff regarding the theft and destruction of the sign. It is under investigation and eventually will be submitted to the Calhoun County Prosecutor, John Hallacy to ascertain if there is enough evidence for a warrant to be approved. We will keep you advised. And more positive news this afternoon... A local neighbor who heard about the destruction of the signs actually called and was willing to sign an affidavit that they too witnessed another sign being removed by Mr. Pratt himself. That information was passed along to the Calhoun County Sheriff for their follow-up investigation. The family of Mary Lands is very appreciative of these efforts from the public. It is this kind of support that will allow us to prevail in the end. A few weeks ago a Michigan State police sergeant made a comment that he would stop at the Pratt residence and put them on notice about the signs. At that time we did not believe it would be a fruitful endeavor. They can't seem to find a person to charge with major crimes why would we want them to go there about lesser offenses? We have no doubt that very soon, the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise will be held accountable. Law enforcement won't solve the case. It will be from information provided by citizens in the community.
Many people across the country have written and called asking about the condition of Mary's vehicle and the position by Chief Mike Olson and Marshall Police Department that it has always been held in a secure location and is legal evidence.
The family and I have no idea if anything of evidentiary value was found in the vehicle when it allegedly was examined by the Michigan State Police Crime Lab in Lansing, Michigan in early 2004? Under proper law enforcement protocol it is understandable that any information remain confidential. If any forensic evidence was found it hopefully is properly stored by the Marshall Police Department.
However if this is the manner in which the chain of custody and the continuity of evidence is preserved by the Marshall Police Department the entire 15 sworn officers should go back to the police academy and learn about evidence preservation. The department should also think about the position of detective. None are listed in the official web site for the city www.cityofmarshall.com
For quite some time the family of Mary Denise Lands has been asking that the Marshall Police Department give up jurisdiction of their daughter's investigation to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The incompetence and inability of the Marshall Police Department to even want to properly investigate Mary's disappearance and murder defies logic. Would you want these type of individuals investigating any crime in which you were the victim?
After another inquiry on October 2, 2006 on behalf of the family concerning the status of this vehicle it was quietly relocated on October 3rd from the open yard of the tow company to an undisclosed location. On October 6, 2006 a family member personally spoke to Chief Olson and was advised that the vehicle is being held as evidence. I'd like to see the evidence log and documentation for this article that has been retained as evidence for nearly 2 1/2 years. This might be evidence under Chief Olson's, "Marshall Law" but no court in the United States of America or any prosecutor could conclude this is legal evidence.
Update, October 6, 2006- Today's latest shenanigans by the Marshall Police Department have trumped their numerous blunders and incompetent conduct over the last 30 months.
Mary Lands' vehicle has been unlocked in an open and unsecured yard of Bud's Towing in Marshall, Michigan. According to Chief Mike Olson the vehicle has been considered "evidence" since March 2004 and would not be released to the family. Mary's parents have been trying to document its status and work with the lien-holder in an attempt to keep Mary's vehicle within their family. Chase Bank has been kind enough to also examine the circumstances and provide assistance to the parent's. After the Marshall Police Department received yet another one of my inquiries on behalf of the family on the status of the vehicle this week it was immediately removed from the property of the tow company and is now in a secure location. The Marshall Police Department claim today that the vehicle is being retained by their agency because it is evidence. Evidence and its documentation is a crucial responsibility of any law enforcement agency. Is the Marshall Police Department going to falsify some evidence tag to show that the chain of custody for this vehicle will verify that it is a piece of evidence?
There is no court in the United States of America or any prosecutor that would take this position especially after the way the vehicle has been improperly stored for over two years. It appears that the Marshall Police Department are doing even more to botch any successful future prosecution of the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands.
In looking at this situation objectively it could be concluded that there was some type of scheme in place to defraud the lien-holder of the payments of this vehicle, and deprive Mary's family to ever come into possession of something that once belonged to their dear daughter.
I know that someone reading about the Mary Lands case might have doubts to our statements and theory. No law enforcement agency in 2006 would ever operate with such incompetence, and lie and deceive parents who have suffered so much. The one thing that the family and I have always done was to be honest with the public and all the media. You couldn't even begin to make up these type of ludicrous circumstances, but they are all sadly very true. People ask us all the time, why do you feel that the Marshall Police Department must turn over jurisdiction of this case to the Federal Bureau of Investigation? If you have followed the story for any amount of time you would see why? As I have said many times before, and it is once again verified today, Barney Fife of Mayberry would have done a better job than anyone in the Marshall Police Department.
Jim Carlin
Justinian Investigative Service
October 3, 2006- Grand Larceny?Lack of Professionalism?Arrogance? You can make the decision. The latest antics of the Marshall Police Department. It gives a new meaning to the term "Marshall Law." If any citizen had engaged in similar conduct they could be charged with conspiracy to commit grand larceny. A police-officer failing to turn in recovered property/evidence such as a knife or an IPOD, and converting it to their own would be fired and criminally charged. This is very similar. but on a grandeur scale.
Subject: Re: 1993 Dodge Durango, Vehicle of Mary Denise Lands
Dear Chief Olson:
This correspondence was originally sent to the City Clerk under a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. It was denied and being re-submitted to you, your department, and the City Attorney.
I have previously submitted written communications to you regarding the release of the vehicle of Mary Denise Lands, which has now been stored in the open tow yard of Bud’s Wrecker in Marshall. The vehicle has no wheels and the location of the four tires is unknown. It was unlocked and numerous individuals have been in and out of the vehicle in the periodically unsecured storage lot.
On behalf of the family I attempted to ascertain the status of the vehicle. You have informed individuals that the vehicle was no longer evidence and in the improper manner in which it is being presently stored that statement would appear to be correct. You have previously advised the family that it is evidence. Bud’s Wrecker claims it is evidence, according to your position, and under the control of the Marshall Police Department. Depending on the listener, you alternate between statements the vehicle is evidence, or no longer considered evidence? The proper chain of evidence and the securing of that evidence clearly indicate that if the vehicle was once of evidentiary value, it has now been breached. Further, we cannot ascertain why the wheels were removed and where they are presently located? In a previous written response you further responded that the vehicle is not a concern of the family, or myself and it is a matter between the lien-holder and Bud’s Wrecker.
We vehemently dispute that claim, and it is on record that Clifford Marshall, Mary’s father, is the conservator of her estate, and we ask for the vehicle to be released, as according to Bud’s Wrecker, it is in the control and possession of the Marshall Police Department.
I have spoken with the owner of the dealership where the vehicle was purchased and they report the lien is with Chase Bank. Sgt. Scott McDonald was provided all the documentation related to this vehicle.
It is nearing the 3rd winter that this vehicle has been stored outdoors and Mr. Marshall would like to have a statement and release so that he may be able to contact the lien-holder and resolve the issue. It makes no sense for this vehicle to be up on jacks in the rear of an open storage lot.
The Marshall Police Department has acted arbitrarily and callously for over two years in not working with the family to release this vehicle. You and your employees should have had more empathy for the family, especially in this particular matter. Clifford and Anita Marshall have very few items that belonged to their daughter. They would like to have this vehicle released and if they can manage it would like to give the vehicle to Mary’s children and keep it in the family. If this issue had been addressed two years ago the family would have been able to work with the lien-holder and Bud’s Wrecker to pay the costs for towing and storage. The Marshall Police Department should actually pay these fees and the family is asking for you to do so. A 1993 Dodge Durango with approximately 11,000 miles on it is today valued at approximately $13,000.00. If your agency had examined this issue properly two years ago it would have been one less piece of frustration for the family.
We understand that the files of the Mary Lands case are not subject to inspection or FOIA because the Marshall Police Department claims it is an open investigation. If the vehicle is not evidence we would like the tires to be returned and for the vehicle to be released. We also request that the contents of the glove compartment and vehicle documentation also be returned. The charges for towing and/or storage should be paid by the City of Marshall. The Marshall Police Department has absolutely no legal standing at this time and should not be involved in any civil issues related to this vehicle, Mary Lands’ estate and Bud’s Wrecker. Any other issues regarding the vehicle could then be resolved between Mr. Marshall, Mary’s conservator, the lien-holder and Bud’s Wrecker.
Thank you for your assistance in this matter.
Jim Carlin Justinian Investigative Services 344 Clayton Avenue Battle Creek, Michigan 49017-5218
"When you first meet the charming man, that lives behind the haunted soul (Christopher Pratt), you are taken aback by his kindness and generosity.
His smooth way of making everything in your life alright ... that is until you're sucked into his world of darkness. Then the shock of there being "NO WAY OUT" is a daily fact that you must live with. Chris would chuckle and say "It's because of your own stupidity ... or ignorance." Or maybe that ... "You're being so dramatic." He has such a solid way of turning everything around on his abuser.
If and when you ever get away from his claws ... you walk away believing that you are FREE ... only to soon realize that his grip is still on you every second, of every minute, of every day.
There will be NO justice for Mary, or his current girlfriend, or his ex-wife, or his children, or this town, not even our society in a whole ... until he is put behind bars where he belongs.
This is speaking from a person who probably knows him better than anyone, for I am still haunted.
The comment that anonymous wrote about: "Why would anyone protect this guy if they knew he killed her?"
My comment is: "Awh duh, probably because they fear him?" Obviously this person has never been abused, or in Chris clutches.
Here's another question ... Why is it when you see him downtown, or at a football game, or at the town's grocery store, that everyone smiles at him? Is it because they are all his best friends? "AWH Duh! It's because the townspeople FEAR him."
The comments about him being a sociopath, (see below)I can tell you from persnal experience the one's that Chris possess':
Glibness/Superficial Charm: (OH YES! He drips charm.)
Manipulative and Conning: (You will never know you're being manipulated from Chris, until it is WAY TOO LATE!" He is a professional manipulator.)
Grandiose Sense of Self: (Chris believes he's WAY above everyone else, and he chuckles often over how smart he is compared to everyone else. Because you see? No one knows what game he is playing with them next, and he loves that control.)
Pathological Lying (He would lie about what brand toothpaste he uses.)
Lack of Remorse, Shame or Guilt (He's good at crying and "pretending he's upset" Don't let him fool you.)
Shallow Emotions (No, Chris is very good at Emotions, he'll make you believe anything. By the time he's done with you, you'll think he's the most caring, sincere man in the world ... oh wait a minute, I almost forgot ... that's another one of his games.)
Incapacity for Love (Yes)
Need for Stimulation (Yes, in every sense of the word.)
Callousness/Lack of Empathy (When he's abusing you ... yes)
Poor Behavioral Controls/Impulsive Nature (If you talk to Chris for any length of time, you soon realize that there is something that just isn't right about him. Especially his alluding sexual comments.)
Early Behavior Problems/Juvenile Delinquency (yes, but that's kept all within the family).
Irresponsibility/Unreliability (yes, I could go on about this one, but then I wouldn't be very anonymous)
Promiscuous Sexual (Yes)
(Behavior/Infidelity Lack of Realistic Life Plan/Parasitic Lifestyle Criminal or Entrepreneurial Versatility (Yes, yes, yes)
Contemptuous of those who seek to understand them (No one will truly understand him ... because he lives in a world that is not normal/or natural to the average human. He has created his own world, his own rules, and his own timeframe. It's Chris' world, and there is no understanding it.)
Does not perceive that anything is wrong with them. (No, not to mention everything is "everyone elses fault" He never does anything wrong, and he always has a crazy reason why he did what he did, and you better just deal with it.)
Authoritarian (Like I said, "You better just deal with it!")
Secretive (Again ... I would no longer be anonymous.
Paranoid (LOL!!!!!!!!! Totally)
Only rarely in difficulty with the law, but seeks out situations where their tyrannical behavior will be tolerated, condoned, or admired (Does he have a record?)
Conventional appearance (yup.)
Goal of enslavement of their victim(s) (I hope you are never one of his vicims to find this one out)
Exercises despotic control over every aspect of the victim's life. (Every single last aspect. Remember ... you don't realize he's doing it, until his claws are already in you.)
Has an emotional need to justify their crimes and therefore needs their victim's affirmation, respect, gratitude and love. (Another reason why he is so good at crying, and showing his emotions. By the time he's done manipulating you ... you're feeling sorry for him.")
Ultimate goal is the creation of a willing victim. (Look out, you better darn well be careful. Why is his current girlfriend with him again? Is it because she loves him, or because she "can't" leave him? Who knows, maybe she's still at the "he's wonderful" stage. Chris can't keep this up for too long though, before long you start seeing his true colors; so to say. But then will she be able to get away from him? Only one girl has ... but he's probably still destroying her life too.)
Incapable of real human attachment to another (yes, as already stated.)
Unable to feel remorse or guilt. (Never, ever, ever would he feel guilty. If he was showing you guilt ... it would be part of his game.)
Extreme narcissism and grandiose. (Yes ... just listen to his lies. I "heard" he was an Eagle Scout ... what a laugh!")
May state readily that their goal is to rule the world. (actually, I've never heard this from him, but who knows? Maybe that's part of "his" world he lives in.")
To the person who wrote: "It is hard to believe someone you love and care for is guilty of even having the slightest knowledge of such a horrific crime. We love him, but we want justice for Mary too."
I understand what you are writing, everyone in this world has someone who loves them. I just hope for your own mental health, that you are open to what is most likely the truth in this case.
My biggest prayer, is that Hallacy is taking this "long" amount of time, STUDYING CHRIS. His ways, his ethics, his deviousness. So that when Mr. Hallacy finally decides it's time to go forward in this (and God I hope it's soon), that he will WIN THIS CASE! PLEASE MR. HALLACY! PLEASE FIND JUSTICE FOR MARY,FOR MR. AND MRS. MARSHALL & FAMILY, FOR HIS EX-WIFE AND KIDS, FOR JIM CARLIN, AND FOR THIS TOWN.
From, Still Haunted.
September 13, 2006- Our protest Walk for Mary throughout the weekend during Marshall’s Historic Home Tour was a huge success. Many visitors stopped and spoke with Mary’s parent’s, Clifford & Anita Marshall. We all discussed the bungled investigation and numerous people offered to write letters to members of law enforcement about their poor handling of the case. As visitors and members of the community got off tour buses we handed out flyers and information about Mary’s disappearance. Hundreds of people honked their horns and waved as they drove around the Brooks Fountain Circle in support of our efforts to answer the question, When will we have justice for Mary? The family and supporters of Mary Denise Lands will continue to promote public awareness about the case. We will again walk at the Criminal Justice Center in Battle Creek in the near future and have a strong presence in Marshall during the upcoming Scarecrow Festival. Come out and support us.
September 6, 2006- The “Annual Night-Out Against Crime” protest walk for Mary was a great success. The family, friends and supporters of Mary Denise Lands again carried signs in front of the Marshall Police Department and the Brooks Fountain Circle. The activities conducted by the police department were not crowded and most of the traffic on the Fountain were from the members of the police and fire department, and others in law enforcement. The children who did attend appeared to have a great time. The low turnout was probably attributable to the fact that the event had to be rescheduled from the original date in August. When the event was concluded the last person to leave the Fountain was Chief Mike Olson who rode off on the Marshall Police Department's new Harley-Davidson motorcycle that he drove to the event earlier in the evening. We will soon post photographs of the event and participants. Once again, members of the community stopped and spoke with Cliff & Anita Marshall and offered their support about Mary’s disappearance. As on other protest walks, people honked their horns and waved as they drove around the Fountain Circle. The family continues to ask that the Marshall Police Department turn over the investigation of their daughter’s disappearance and murder to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The family and friends will continue protest walks during the Historic Home Tour, the Scarecrow Festival and other events in Marshall to promote public awareness for Mary’s case.
Letter to the Editor- Battle Creek Enquirer- Mary's Birthday - On September 3, 2006 she would have been 42 years of age, For over two years I have worked on behalf of the parent’s of Mary Denise Lands on the circumstances of their daughter’s disappearance in March 2004. I am privileged to know these good people and feel like a member of their family. Anita Marshall, Mary’s mother, said many months ago, “We never had a manual to follow about what to do or not do when your daughter turns up missing.” The family has provided law enforcement with hundreds of documents, videos, and the bomber jacket that Mary wore on the night of her disappearance. The latter was recovered at a flea market as it was being sold along with many of Mary’s other personal belongings. The problem today is that the Marshall Police Department lacks the ability to solve this case. Marshall, Michigan is a wonderful and lovely place to live and work, but evil things can and do occur in the best of places. Something very evil occurred on March 12, 2004 and that evil lingers to this date. We reiterate our request that the FBI take primary jurisdiction of the investigation. Chief Olson’s latest claim is that two officers are now working the case 3 days a week. Nothing can be solved on that timetable especially if you take into account interruptions for vacation, training, lunch, and other daily priorities. Today we doubt that Mary’s case even receives 12 hours a week. It is easy for people to criticize our efforts, but if this was the wife, daughter or loved one of a local politician or police official the case would have been solved long ago.
Jim Carlin Justinian Investigative Services Battle Creek
September 1, 2006- The Annual "Night-Out Against Crime" for the City of Marshall originally planned in August has been rescheduled for Tuesday, September 5, 2006, 7:00 P.M.-9:00 P.M. It will be held at the Brooks Fountain Circle. On hand will be the family, friends and supporters of Mary Denise Lands who continue to protest their displeasure with the way the investigation has been mishandled by the Marshall Police Department. Come out and support the family and meet Clifford & Anita Marshall, Mary’s Mom and Dad. Join us as we continue to ask the questions, Where is Mary? and, When will we have justice for Mary. The family and friends will maintain a notable presence in Marshall and Battle Creek and talk about this case in the upcoming months. We plan appearances in Marshall at the Historic Home Tour, the Scarecrow Festival, the Christmas Parade and at any event where we can ask for help from the public. We would be privileged if you would join us and talk about Mary Lands and why Chief Mike Olson and the Marshall Police Department have not solved this case.
Thank you for your Letter to the Editor, Lt. Wright, but you are quite Wrong! It is interesting to note that you seem to have information that the family of Mary Denise Lands did not have related to activity on her bank records. I don't mind anyone with ties to law enforcement supporting Chief Mike Olson. However, I have never made any comments about Sheriff Al Byam and the Calhoun County Sheriff's Department because that agency never had the chance to solve this case. My facts are accurate and my qualifications fdo not need to be displayed just to show that I know what I am talking about. You do need to learn the definition of defamation, whimsical or otherwise, because I would welcome such a lawsuit. From the very first day that I inquired about the Mary Lands case from people in Marshall I came to realize the blatant fear in that community not only of certain persons who may be involved in Mary's disappearance, but in the fear that so many citizens have of their own police department. We all know of the Blue Wall of Silence and how pervasive it is in our society. I have accomplished inquiries to the Marshall Police Department under the Freedom of Information Act and you should do the same. What I found was appalling and it has a direct correlation to the management style of Chief Olson and the credibility of that agency. You for one should know how important it is for citizens to trust police-officers. I am correct in my facts and almost immediately the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Task Force was told by the Marshall Police Department that their resources were not needed. The family of Mary Lands is very aware that law enforcement does not release police information and we have no problem with that protocol. What we do have a problem with is when police officers lie and do not keep their word. The MPD has treated the Marshall family with total disrespect since the beginning of this case. The word empathy is not in their vocabulary. We believe that this will all come out soon when a major media brings this story to national attention. Two years ago I stated that Marshall, Michigan is a beautiful and wonderful place to live and work, but evil things can and do occur in the best of places. Something very evil occurred on March 12, 2004 and for whatever reasons that evil lingers today. However, soon the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Lands will be held accountable. We also believe others will also be held accountable for their failures. I have donated my time and resources to Clifford & Anita Marshall in the search for their daughter. As a licensed private investigator in Michigan I could be doing many other things but I choose to help this family. When this case is concluded I have no plans to continue in this profession. I certainly would never take on another missing persons case and I limit myself to specific cases at this time. My reward and remuneration will be to see that justice is served. I would be the first person to shake the hand of Chief Olson if he stepped up and did the right thing. Lt. Wright, Why don't you come out and join us on Tuesday, September 5, 2006 at 7:00 P.M. and meet the family of Mary Lands. We all will be there for Marshall's "Annual Night-out" asking "When will we have justice for Mary?" We will also be there in Marshall for the Historic Home Tour, the Scarecrow Festival and the Christmas Parade. We won't go away until this case is resolved. Thank you for your comments, Lt. It is discussion like this that permits our community to understand the real tragedy in Mary's case. We need more people like you.
August 27, 2006- Letter to the Editor, by Donald Wright, Battle Creek Enquirer Case continues to be investigated I have been following the Mary Lands case since the beginning. My heart goes out to the family; I too believe that she deserves justice. That said, I take great umbrage with an individual who makes public statements maligning both Chief Mike Olson and the Marshall Police Department. The letter to the editor printed Aug. 22 in the Enquirer ("Protest Wednesday in missing-woman case") is another example that does nothing positive to bring closure to this investigation. I feel compelled to respond to these "cheap shots." Mary Lands was first reported missing on a Sunday. Investigators uncovered information showing possible activity on her bank records as late as Monday, but that was found not to be the case. The Calhoun County Major Crimes Task Force was activated the very next day. This team consists of representatives from the FBI, the Michigan State Police and all of the larger law enforcement agencies in the county. Contrary to all previous information provided by this individual, the FBI and the Major Crimes Task Force were very involved. Marshall PD and the state police continue to have investigators assigned to follow up on leads. They spend a large portion of their time following these leads and adding them to the investigation. This person should know that a police agency does not release police reports on any active investigations. The Marshall Police Department certainly does not deserve to be whimsically defamed as this person's reference to having doughnuts takes precedent over an important investigation. Who is Jim Carlin and what are his qualifications for making allegations that are such tripe? Donald Wright Battle Creek
August 22, 2006- Letter to the Editor, Battle Creek Enquirer Protest Wednesday in missing-woman case Once again, the family of Mary Denise Lands is asking for help from our community. We plan to conduct a day-long protest walk at the Criminal Justice Center in Battle Creek on Wednesday, Aug. 23, beginning at 8 a.m. Mary Lands disappeared under suspicious circumstances from an apartment she shared with her boyfriend on March 12, 2004. The Marshall Police Department initially botched this investigation and rejected the resources of the FBI and a major task force to break the case. Today, MPD continues to stumble and fumble its way through a sloppy investigation that has failed to produce arrests of the person(s) responsible for Mary's disappearance. Calhoun County has had a large amount of violent crime in the last two years and we do not fault any agency for its inability to solve crimes. The investigators of the BCPD have an extremely difficult job but at least they show effort. We adamantly do fault the Marshall Police Department and Chief Mike Olson for their incompetence and inability to solve Mary's case. This is not rocket science, and basic Police Procedure 101 could provide the answers. MPD should put away the doughnuts and do some real police work! We have the support of the Marshall community, but we need citizens throughout Calhoun County to come out and walk with us on the 23rd. Meet Mary's mother and father and see these two good people who are only trying to answer one question, "When will we have justice for Mary?" Jim Carlin
August 17,2006- The Marshall Police Department responded on our request to ascertain why Calhoun County Prosecutor John Hallacy refused to issue warrants against Christopher L. Pratt. That agency clearly has a letter or explanation on why our complaints had no merit and we wished to receive it. Other individuals have been charged and convicted under these statutes and we believe the complaints we signed did have merit. The family, friends and supporters of Mary Lands continue to be disappointed in all the events related to this case. Again, we intend to express our displeasure with the manner in which the Marshall Police Department have conducted their investigation. We will conduct a day-long protest walk in front of the Calhoun County Criminal Justice Center at 8:00 A.M. on Wednesday, August 23, 2006. We also plan to protest on Tuesday, September 5, 2006 at the Brooks Fountain Circle in Marshall (7:00-9:00 P.M.), which is the rescheduled date for the Marshall Police Department's, Annual Night Out. The original event previously planned for August 2nd was cancelled by the police because of the heat. We will also be present for the Historic Home Tour, Harvest Festival, and other Fall and Winter events in Marshall. We will continue to walk with our signs that ask the question, When will we have justice for Mary? Please come out to all our protest walks and help support the family of Mary Lands.
I reviewed the email you sent to Deputy Chief Pehrson regarding the disposition of the investigation involving Christopher Pratt. As investigators, my officers collected the facts of your allegations and the documentation regarding the lease. The information was reduced to writing and then a warrant request was sent to Prosecutor Hallacy. After reviewing the information, Prosecutor Hallacy determined it to be a civil matter revolving around the lease of the apartment.
Regarding the formal reply from the Prosecutor that you referred to in your email, that is not the customary manner in which notification is made. In nearly every case that I am aware of, the Prosecutor responds to the investigating agency informing them of his decision regarding the case. The law enforcement agency then makes contact with the complainants and informs them of the decision. As I am sure you know, the Calhoun County Prosecutor's Office reviews well over 6000 complaints annually and they simply don't have the resources to individually notify the complainants. That is not to say that Prosecutor Hallacy is not responsive. In fact, I find him to be just the opposite. He has met with Clifford and Anita in the past and continues to be willing to meet with them. He has provided his knowledge, experience, and guidance on this case and I feel fortunate to work with him.
If you have further questions or I can be of further assistance, please contact me.
Officer Kelly called me this afternoon and related the decision by Mr. Hallacy not to prosecute Mr. Pratt in our complaints. He read from Mr. Hallacy's letter that this was a civil matter related to the lease. Officer Kelly stated that if I request the information under FOIA I could obtain the decision.
As you may know, I did so with Mr. Pratt's original complaint and had to pay $24.00 for 24 pages of the material.
As the complainants, I feel that Mr. & Mrs. Marshall and myself should receive the formal reply of the prosecutor and his reasons for not going forward.
It would be appreciated if those materials and Mr. Hallacy's decision be sent to each of us as this is something out of the scope of FOIA since we were the victims.
Thank you for your assistance in this matter.
Jim Carlin
August 2, 2006- "The annual "Night Out" Walk for Mary was a great success, but the Marshall Police Department couldn't take the heat" Once again the family, friends and supporters walked in peaceful protest for Mary Denise Lands. Despite a request from the Chief of Police that the annual "Night Out" was not appropriate for such a demonstration, it was held with a huge response. It is ironic that the only time the police chief shows up at the Marshall home is to dissuade the family from some public awareness efforts for their daughter. If that agency had spent as much time working on the investigation in 2004 the case would have been solved by now. It appears that the chief of police is trying to also play the part of a politician, however he fails miserably in both jobs. The good people of Marshall stopped and once again offered support and hundreds honked their horns for Mary during the 3-hour walk in front of the Marshall Police Department. We are asking that the case be turned over to the Federal Bureau of Investigation and that a grand jury be convened to bring the person/s responsible to justice for Mary's disappearance. As usual our group was friendly, dignified and lawful respecting the rights of all. We believe that "Night Out Against Crime" was an outstanding opportunity to continue the public awareness efforts in Mary's case. Many of the residents who stopped asked about why "Night Out" events were not being held? A dispatcher later told a resident that it had been cancelled because of the weather. The function was to be held under trees at the Circle Fountain but evidently the police department could not handle the heat. We all had a pleasant evening and the heat was not a problem. Why is that agency so keen on not wanting their residents to view a legitimate demonstration on behalf of Mary Lands? What are they trying to hide? Why don't they want to solve the crimes involving Mary's disappearance and murder. We are only asking that the mishandled criminal investigation be turned over to an agency having the ability, resources and desire to prosecute Mary's case. Annual "Night Out" is now rescheduled for Tuesday, September 5, 2006 and we will be back. There are also other events for the late Summer and Fall in Marshall where we will continue to walk with our signs that ask the question, When will we have justice for Mary?
July 29, 2006- On Tuesday, August 1, 2006 communities throughout the United States will be celebrating "Annual Night Out Against Crime." It is a national program to demonstrate how citizens can play a vital role in assisting their police departments through joint crime, drug and violence prevention.
The Marshall Police Department will hold their event from 7:00 P.M.-9:00 P.M. at the Brooks Fountain Circle in Marshall, Michigan.
The family, friends and supporters of Mary Lands will also be on hand in front of the police department for a protest demonstration handing out literature about Mary's disappearance. It will be similar to the highly successful protest that was conducted over the long Memorial Day weekend.
We will carry protest signs asking that the Federal Bureau of Investigation take over the primary investigation of Mary's case from the Marshall Police Department. It has been nearly 29 months since Mary Lands disappeared and that investigation was mishandled by the local police department from its initial stages. We all would like to promote anti-crime efforts in our neighborhoods, but we also need to demand thorough and complete investigations of any crimes that are ongoing. There are too many murders and violent crimes in Calhoun County and law enforcement barely has enough time to investigate current offenses much less older cases. When criminals see that they will be held accountable for their actions that in itself will reduce crime and violence.
Please join the family of Mary Marshall Lands during our protest walk and carry a sign.
For two years we have been asking, Where is Mary? We continue to also ask, When will we have justice for Mary?
July 10, 2006- The Marshall Police Department today finally released a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Request that I filed concerning a complaint by Chris Pratt, the former boy-friend of Mary Denise Lands. In the complaint Mr. Pratt alleges that Mary's parent's, Clifford & Anita Marshall, a leasing manager of the apartment complex where she once resided, and I broke into the apartment and stole property. After an investigation by the Marshall Police Department a warrant request was then submitted to Calhoun County Prosecutor John Hallacy. They cited crimes including Home Invasion, Burglary-Forced Entry, and Theft. After a review of the complaint and the investigation by the Marshall Police Department the Calhoun County Prosecutor declined to issue any warrants in this case. The 24 pages of documents clearly indicate that during the first three hours of this investigation the Marshall Police Department was fully aware that no crime had occurred, however on June 20, 2006 they still requested that Mr. & Mrs. Marshall come into the police department for an interrogation. Upon arriving and being advised they were the subjects of a criminal investigation the Marshall's were asked to waive their rights under Miranda. They then declined to speak with any officer without their attorney present and departed. For the first time in my life on the previous day, I also had to invoke my rights under Miranda and refused to speak with any officer without an attorney being present. On June 21, 2006 the family was told by the police chief that "there was no problem." If his statement was true then why was the matter even referred to the prosecutor? This is just more of the lies and deceit that the family has had to endure in the nearly 29 months since their daughter disappeared. Chief Mike Olson and the Marshall Police Department continue to utilize harassment and intimidation against the family and I because we have been highly critical of their mishandling of Mary's case. Any individual in law enforcement would have immediately recognized after speaking with the leasing manager that the claims by Mr. Pratt were not only unfounded, but also totally false. He failed to pay rent and was considered a "skip" by management yet after giving permission to Mr. Marshall to take a few small items from his former vacant apartment he then signed a complaint that the property was stolen. These were small items once possessed by their missing daughter which were abandoned by Mr. Pratt after he vacated the premises. How can an individual be a suspect of a home invasion when the premises were vacant and unoccupied, and Mr. Pratt had no legal standing to even be there himself? It will be interesting to see how quickly the Marshall Police Department might seek a warrant request against Mr. Pratt for filing a false police report and falsely accusing a person of a crime because he is the one who should be charged. We all intend to sign complaints against Mr. Pratt and seek legal recourse in this area. Mary Lands has been missing for nearly 30 months. If the Marshall Police Department would have aggressively pursued the person/s responsible for Mary's disappearance as they did against her parents for an alleged Home Invasion the case could have been solved two years ago. They continue to display their incompetence and these keystone-kops antics by members of any police department are a total disgrace. Where is the leadership and professionalism of the police management in this law enforcement agency? Their actions display just how truly incompetent they really are in the performance of their sworn duties. With this type of attitude it is no wonder that the Marshall Police Department cannot solve Mary's case. Barney Fife in Mayberry wouldn't have ever even considered these frivolous charges against the parents of a woman who is missing and now presumed murdered. Chief Olson and some members of his department continue to demonstrate their lack of empathy or respect for the Marshall family. Their sole objective today is not to solve the Mary Lands disappearance, but to force the family to go away and forget that it ever happened. Mr. Olson, that will never occur and you need to wake up and do the job for which you are being well paid. Minus your other retirement, you receive a salary of $65,352.00, and are supposed to be the Marshall Police Department's top cop. After all your years on the job, why don't you strive to be one! Jim Carlin
June 26, 2006- This is the email response from Chief Mike Olson and the Marshall Police Department concerning our Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)Request about the family and I being granted permission to be in the previous residence of Mary Lands. Her former boy-friend, Chris Pratt has evidently filed a criminal complaint against us for entering the abandoned apartment, although we had permission of management. A FOIA request was submitted on June 20, 2006.
June 22, 2006- On June 19, 2006 the leasing manager of the apartment complex where Mary formerly resided permitted Mr. and Mrs. Marshall and I into the apartment to take photographs, video and recover a few small items abandoned there after her boy friend vacated, and had not paid any rent.
Acting on a complaint from Chris Pratt a sergeant from the Marshall Police Department attempted to speak with me prior to a city council meeting. Mr. Marshall and I were in attendance to speak about Mary's disappearance and ask 20 questions concerning the mishandling of Mary's case. The officer came upstairs to the City Hall and requested that I accompany her to the police department for questioning. I declined to speak with her until my attorney was present. The Marshall Police Department then spent hours at the apartment complex and verified with the apartment leasing agent that Mary's name was on the lease and, in fact, Mr. Pratt had vacated without paying his rent. One would presume that the issue was over, however later during the next day the Marshall Police Department required the Cliff & Anita Marshall to come into the police department and be questioned about "some criminal matters". They complied and were brought into an interrogation room. They were then informed of their Miranda Rights and they too then stated they would not speak to the police until their attorney was present. The next day, Chief Mike Olson called Mr. Marshall and said there was no problem.
This is just more of the same attitude of arrogance and incompetence within the Marshall Police Department. They knew Monday night that no crime ever occurred with us entering an empty apartment with the permission of management, and while they were present. The Marshall Police Department purposely intended to harass the family in an attempt to have us cease our criticism of their mishandling of Mary's case.
How ironic it is that nearly 28 months after Mary's disappeared that her own parents were read their Miranda Rights just for being in her former residence. I have to wonder how many times Miranda has been read to anyone in the actual investigation of the Mary Lands disappearance?
Thank you to the management of this great residential complex for standing up and helping the family. Southwest Michigan and the community have been so supportive of the family and it is deeply appreciated. This is just another example of one of the reasons that primary jurisdiction of the Mary Lands case should be taken over by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and a grand jury. A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Request was submitted to the Marshall Police Department concerning this alleged complaint and incident.
Jim Carlin
June 18, 2006- A Father’s Day Plea to Bring Home his Daughter, by Clifford Marshall
Can anyone help me with questions about my daughter, Mary, who has now been missing for over 27 months? Mary was 39 years old when she disappeared from her apartment in Marshall, Michigan. She was my adult daughter, but she will always be my “baby.” These are just some of my questions and those of our family: 1. Why were non-certified civilian dog handlers permitted into the original police investigation by the Marshall Police Department, which gave the impression to our community that my Mary was just another adult runaway? 2. Why did the Marshall Police Department within the first week of Mary’s disappearance tell the Federal Bureau of Investigation that their resources and those of a task force were not needed in the case? 3. Why were family members ridiculed, embarrassed and told outright lies by the Marshall Police Department during interviews about Mary’s disappearance? 4. Why did it take 6 months for the Marshall Police Department to declare Mary a “victim of foul play?” 5. Why did it take 9 months for a search warrant to be executed at my daughter’s home? 6. Why was Jim Carlin, a man volunteering his time and experience to our family threatened with arrest simply for asking questions about Mary? 7. Why was it that 9 months later the police didn’t have any problem with Mr. Carlin working on behalf of our family on this case? 8. Why have the Marshall Police Department refused to interview Mary’s daughter as she obviously has a great deal of first-hand knowledge about her mother’s life and Mary’s relationship with her boyfriend? 9. Why was it that our family did not realize our daughter was a severely battered woman? 10. Why after 27 months have the police failed to name a suspect or at least a “person of interest” in Mary’s disappearance? 11. Why after working with the Marshall Police Department and providing information and tips to them was Jim Carlin, our private investigator, who continues to donate his time and services again threatened with arrest because he wanted to interview Mary’s daughter? 12. Why is it that Mary’s favorite winter brown leather jacket worn on the night of her disappearance was recovered at a flea market in Homer yet the Marshall Police do not seem interested in who was selling it along with many of her other personal items and property? 13. Why have the Marshall Police not done more to inquire about Mary’s boyfriend and other associates who might have information about this case? 14. Why does the Marshall Chief of Police refuse to permit the Federal Bureau of Investigation to take over primary jurisdiction of this case? 15. What is the Marshall Police Department hiding and who are they trying to protect? 16. Why is it that so many people in our community distrust the Marshall Police Department? 17. Why is it that only once in 27 months has any member of law enforcement ever visited our home to give us support? This single instance occurred for just 20 minutes last month and it was only after a plea by Jim Carlin to the Marshall Chief of Police, Mike Olson. 18. It is well known that the Calhoun County Prosecutor will not criminally charge anyone in a case without a body. Why did Mr. Hallacy state to the editor of the Marshall Chronicle he has prosecuted at least twice, but those cases cannot be verified in court records? If he has done so, why won’t he consider such a prosecution in my daughter’s case? 19. Why is it that it appears there are so many intertwining criminal activities related to Mary’s disappearance, but the Marshall Police Department can’t seem to connect the dots? 20. Why does the Marshall Police Department have such a lack of respect and compassion for our family in this unbearable tragedy? For over two years we have been asking, “Where is Mary?” and “When will we have justice for Mary?”
May 30, 2006- The Memorial Day weekend traditionally signals the start of a great boating season and a summer of fun. However, this weekend was the 3rd Memorial Day that Mary Lands will not be present to celebrate this holiday with her family. The investigation by the Marshall Police Department has been a total disgrace from the beginning and nothing seems to improve as we approach the 27th month since Mary disappeared from an apartment she shared with her boy-friend, Chris Pratt. Mr. Pratt indicated that Mary went for a walk after a minor argument at approximately 10:00 P.M. in a cold winter evening of March 12, 2004 still attired in her medical scrubs uniform with flat cloth shoes. She reportedly took her purse, however left behind her cell telephone, and the keys to her newly purchased Dodge Durango. 44 hours later Mr. Pratt notified her family, who a week prior had just relocated to California, that their daughter was missing. Two weeks ago the family had to wait 52 hours before the Marshall Police Department notified us that a suspicious bone found on a property we had to dig by ourselves, was not that of a human. Only once in 27 months has any police-officer, investigator, prosecutor, victim advocate or any high ranking member of law enforcement ever visited the home of Mary's parents. This attitude demonstrates a lack of empathy and compassion and it is disrespectful to the family. On Friday, September 26th, the family, friends and supporters of Mary Denise Lands commenced a protest walk in front of the Marshall Police Department and the Brooks Memorial fountain circle over the long holiday weekend. "Clifford Marshall, Mary's Dad, Walking for his daughter" Supporters carried signs expressing displeasure with the way this case has been handled and we are once again demanding justice for Mary. In the first week of Mary's disappearance the Marshall Police Department declined the assistance of the FBI in this case and we want to know why? We are are now asking that the Federal Bureau of Investigation be permitted to take over primary jurisdiction of this case from Chief Mike Olson and the Marshall Police Department. That department has no business conducting an investigation of this this magnitude and importance. They do not have the personnel, resources, initiative or ability to solve this case. It was a very long hot humid 5 days for all of us, but the Marshall family is strong. At the conclusion of the 5-day walk numerous family members, friends and supporters will have volunteered approximately 400 hours of participation. We also have personally observed a gracious public display of support from citizens stopping and wishing the family their best. People were honking their horns, bringing water and food, and welcome words to a family who only wants to obtain justice for their daughter. We will continue all our efforts in search of an answer to our question, "Where is Mary?" We fully realized that many people were away for this long weekend and enjoying the start of summer. However, the Marshall family has not been able to enjoy any happy holidays in the last two years. We have a job to do and it must be done. We will continue now, and in the future to ask, Where is Mary? and, When will we have justice for Mary?
Help our law enforcement authorities make an arrest! On Friday, March 12, 2004 at approximately 10:00 P.M., Mary Denise (Marshall) Lands, DOB: 09/0319/64 disappeared from her home, under unusual circumstances from nearby Marshall, Michigan. Six months later she was declared a "victim of foul play". We believe there are many people who can help in this mystery. If you have any information please contact the Michigan State Police, Battle Creek Post- 269.968.6115. You may also anonymously contact Silent Observer- 269.964.3888. This is not a typical feature related to safe boating, but is being published on our national web site to further promote public awareness about Mary's disappearance. The Lands tragedy has devastated families and friends, and deeply impacted our community. Mary Marshall Lands Family Web Site It is hoped that in 2006 new leads will be developed that will enable law enforcement to solve this case. National BADD will maintain updates on the case and will not remove this feature until the whereabouts of Mary Denise Lands is known. Someone out there knows what happened. Please make the call! Marshall Marshall Chronicle story-March 2005 You may also contact Jim Carlin- www.Justinian.Law.com
UPDATE- Mary Denise Lands- Join our community team to promote public awareness about the disappearance of Mary Denise Lands. We are giving away white caps that display an image of Mary Lands with the words, Where is Mary? There is no cost for them, however friends and supporters are urged to make a donation to the reward fund. By wearing a cap you will signify your support in helping to solve this mystery and building the reward fund that eventually might provide needed answers for the police and the family. Wear the cap, and each and every day ask the question, to as many people as possible, Where is Mary? Talk to your friends and neighbors about Mary's disappearance, and contact law enforcement authorities if you have any information on the case. Remember, someone can provide a vital piece of the puzzle that will solve this investigation. Something trivial and unrelated to you might be the answer to this mystery. For more information contact Jim Carlin at 269.963.7068 or email JCarlin@BADD.orgPhoto-Mary Lands Cap
Update- January 5, 2010- For several months entertainer, Gary Fields, the GodFather of Comedy has offered to host for the Marshall family an event on behalf their missing daughter, Mary Denise Lands. Plans are now about to be finalized for a Valentine's Day holiday weekend program to be held at GodFather's Pizza/Ball Joint in Battle Creek. You may recall, the owner of this establishment, Dick Johnson hosted the 1st "Ride for Mary" motorcycle run, which was held in August 2007 to promote public awareness for Mary's disappearance. On March 12, 2009 she will have been missing for 6 years.
From 7 to 11 p.m. tonight and every Tuesday night, blues musicians are invited to jam with house musicians at the Ball Joint, 4720 Beckley Road, the legendary Battle Creek restaurateur, comedy host and music enthusiast Gary Fields announced today.
been charged. He was incarcerated by 
take over jurisdiction of Mary's investigation.
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January 1, 2007- One of the great tools of law enforcement and civil and criminal investigators are dumpster or trash dives. Once a person places their trash or garbage at the curb for disposal they lose any expectation of their right to privacy. It can be retrieved by anyone and often the police can utilize the contents of trash in their investigation of any criminal activity. People should be extremely careful of what they discard in the trash because criminals can use the information for fraud and identity theft. Use a shredder and protect yourself and family so that documents and papers you don't want found by others, will not be found.
