Jodi Parrack-11 Year Old Girl Murdered

[odette]

11 Year Old Girl Murdered

fox28.com - November 9, 2007

Constantine police are investigating a murder after finding the body of an 11 year old girl in a cemetery.

They say Jodi Christine Parrack never made it home after playing with some friends and was found by a group of people, including her mother.

Since Constantine is a small community, so they're relying on just about any tip a person can bring in.

Police say Jodi was last seen around 4:45 Thursday afternoon and was found dead in the cemetery around 10:30.

The cemetery is less than a mile from her home. — continued

http://www.fox28.com/News/index.php?ID=27873

http://i3.tinypic.com/85fa7no.jpg
Jodi Christine Parrack

[odette]

Autopsy of girl's body found in cemetery indicates homicide; FBI joins Mich. case

detnews.com - Santiago Esparza / The Detroit News - November 9, 2007

CONSTANTINE TOWNSHIP -- Preliminary autopsy reports Friday indicate an 11-year-old girl found dead at a Florence Road cemetery was killed, but did not show how she died.

Jodi Christine Parrack's death now is being investigated as a homicide and the Federal Bureau of Investigations is assisting on the case, Constantine Township police said.

Jodi's body was discovered about 10:30 p.m. Thursday at the cemetery, Constantine Township police said. She was reported missing about 4:45 p.m. Thursday.

Police are asking that anyone with information about the case, particularly a light-colored, older-model van seen in the area last night call investigators.

Jodi, a fifth-grader at Riverside Elementary School, was wearing a black sweater, black T-shirt, jeans and black tennis shoes, police said. She was riding a silver Mongoose bicycle.

She was clothed and the bike was found near her body at the cemetery, according to WWMT-TV. — continued

http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071109/UPDATE/711090432&imw=Y

[odette]

11-year-old's death ruled homicide

woodtv.com - Posted: JOE LaFURGEY - Nov 10, 2007

CONSTANTINE -- Police say an 11-year-old girl's death was homicide, and the county prosecutor said they have reason to believe she was abducted. The FBI has joined the investigation.

Jodi Christine Parrack's body was found in a cemetery by her mother Thursday evening.

At first, police ruled her death suspicious. After the autopsy results came back on Friday, they ruled the death a homicide, though the details that led them to this conclusion were not revealed. — continued

http://i19.tinypic.com/6l0jatg.jpg
The cemetery where Jodi Parrack's body was found.

http://i20.tinypic.com/zlvipv.gif » Press conference on the investigation
http://www.woodtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7335158&nav=0Rcd

[odette]

Girl's death ruled a homicide

Prosecutor: ‘Children are going to help us solve this case’

sturgisjournal.com - Corky Emrick - November 9, 2007

CONSTANTINE - The death of 11-year-old Jodi Christine Parrack of Constantine has been ruled a homicide with an undetermined cause. — continued

Excerpt: "Most of the search was done by Jodi's family and friends," Honeysett said. "They checked all the normal areas where kids hang out, and the cemetery was a last resort."

Parrack's mother found her daughter's body at about 10:30 p.m., next to a large tombstone, fully clothed and not breathing. Constantine firefighters performed CPR but their lifesaving efforts failed. Authorities said there was no indication that she had been struck, nor were there any other clear signs of trauma.

http://i10.tinypic.com/82tfs47.jpg
Members of the St. Joseph County Major Crime Task Force
work to collect evidence at the site where the body of Jodi
Parrack was found Thursday night. Police have ruled her
death a homicide.

http://www.sturgisjournal.com/articles/2007/11/09/news/doc473521e342749924713226.txt

[odette]

Officials Rule 11-Year-Old's Death a Homicide, Urge Parents to Be Alert

wsbt.com - Leanne Tokars - Nov 9, 2007

(WSBT) A little girl disappears, then turns up dead. Now neighbors and police are looking for answers about who's behind her death.

Police believe someone abducted 11-year-old Jodi Parrack as she rode her bike home from a friend's house, then killed her.

Her body was found around 10:30 Thursday night in a cemetery near her home in Constantine.

Police are now calling it a homicide and urging other parents to stay alert. — continued

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http://www.wsbt.com/news/11155741.html

[odette]

http://i9.tinypic.com/85m4vwy.jpg
Body of 11-Year-Old Girl Found in Southwest Michigan Cemetery

http://www.wsbt.com/news/11144161.html

[odette]

FBI joins probe of girl's death

mlive.com/kzgazette - Earlene McMichael - November 10, 2007

CONSTANTINE -- In a town known for its cupolas and cornfields, the homicide Thursday of an 11-year-old girl has left residents here wondering how such a crime could happen in their community.

"We're such an idyllic town," said Peg Connelly, as she stood in front of her home. "We're a tight-knit community. We don't want to tell anybody we're so perfect because then we might have someone who's not-so-perfect move in."

Connelly's disbelief was echoed by many in this village of 2,100 who are anxious to know how Jodi Christine Parrack died. Continued (http://blog.mlive.com/kzgazette/2007/11/fbi_joins_probe_of_girls_death.html)

Excerpt: Last month, in Three Rivers, police investigated an incident where a girl was approached by a man in a brown minivan on Millard Street and asked her if she wanted a ride. When the girl, a student in middle school, said no, the man told her to get into the vehicle, police have said. The girl fled on foot and was not injured.

That incident and three other reports -- two in Three Rivers and one in Flowerfield Township -- of vehicles either approaching or following girls and a boy were received in less than a week in October, according to police.

In the latter two incidents in Three Rivers, police have said two girls and a boy were followed by a tan-colored sports utility vehicle that drove slowly behind them as they walked.

[odette]

Parents Keeping Children Closer After Girl Is Found Dead

wsbt.com - Nora Gathings - Nov 9, 2007

(WSBT) Parents weren't letting their kids out of their sight Friday night after a girl was found dead.

Police believe Jodi Parrack, 11, was kidnapped on her way home from a friend's house Thursday night. Her mother found the body in a cemetery near their home.

There was no outward sign of what may have happened.

The cemetery is just down the street from her home, but on the opposite side of where she would have been coming from. Police say she should have never been there. Friends say she would never go there on her own. — continued

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http://www.wsbt.com/news/local/11162681.html

[odette]

http://i19.tinypic.com/6xr5d1x.jpg

Police are asking anyone who may have seen Jodi Thursday evening to call the Constantine Police Department at (269) 435-4355 or the St. Joseph County Central Dispatch at (269) 467-4195. They are also asking for tips from anyone who may have seen strange activity in the cemetery. They are also interested in a light colored, older van from the area

http://www.wzzm13.com/printfullstory.aspx?storyid=83444

[odette]

‘Awful, just awful’

Shock spreads through village after girl’s death

sturgisjournal.com - Rosalie Currier - November 9, 2007

CONSTANTINE - George Dieffenderfer was on his way to Meek's Mill Restaurant Friday morning when he noticed a roped-off area as he drove past Constantine Township Cemetery.

Dieffenderfer's first question when he arrived at the restaurant was, "What's going on?"

Those who arrived earlier already knew: a young girl was found dead Thursday night at the cemetery.

That girl turned out to be 11-year-old Jodi Parrack, who police say was murdered Thursday.

Dieffenderfer shook his head in disbelief.

A similar reaction was taking place at Harvey House Restaurant.

"It's awful. Just awful," said Chris Howell, a Harvey House waitress. — continued

http://www.sturgisjournal.com/articles/2007/11/09/news/doc4735220a55aa1664382176.txt

[odette]

11-Year-Old Death Ruled A Homicide

fox17.trb - November 9, 2007

CONSTANTINE — It's a mystery that has an entire town on edge: An 11-year-old girl found dead.

When Jodi Parrack didn't come home, family and friends went out searching. Until her mother came across her daughter's body in a cemetery. — continued

Excerpt: Ann Dupree and her daughter Mariah were the last to see her. The fifth-grade girls were hanging out at a home less than a mile from the cemetery. When Mariah had to go to Girl Scouts, they split up.

"I asked her if she wanted to go with me," said Mariah. "And she said she didn't really want to join."

Jodi took off on her bike down the street but didn't make it home. So her mother Valerie dropped by the Duprees.

"We all jumped in our cars, looking, searching for her," said Ann.

As a last resort, Mom searched the cemetery. Nothing could prepare her for what she found.

http://fox17.trb.com/news/110807-wxmi-death,0,1512602.story?coll=wxmi-home-2

[odette]

Update On Jodi Parracks Murder Investigation

wwmt.com - November 10, 2007

CONSTANTINE (NEWSCHANNEL 3) – A press conference was held Saturday that revealed new information in the death of 11-year old Jodi Parrack.

Police received over a 150 tips since the story was aired on NEWSCHANNEL 3. From those tips police have gathered two suspicious vehicles that were in the area during the time of Parracks murder.

One is a dark colored pick-up truck and the other is a light colored van. Police are not saying that these vehicles are related to the murder only that they were in the area. — continued

http://www.wwmt.com/news/police_1344705___article.html/jodi_constantine.html

[odette]

The Community Reacts

wwmt.com - November 10, 2007

CONSTANTINE (NEWSCHANNEL 3) – The crime stunned an entire community. A young girl's body found lying in a cemetery.

They're uncovering a mystery that begins at a home on East 3rd Street in Constantine. Friends say Jodi Parrack left a store Thursday afternoon heading home. She never made it.

Jodi's mother found her daughter's body and bicycle in a cemetery just a block from their home.

An autopsy leads investigators to believe she was murdered. Her friends are nearly certain Jodi wouldn't go to the cemetery on her own. Friend Ray McCann said, “she doesn't like cemetery, even during the daytime she doesn't like that."

News of the murder has shaken this small village. In the words of one parent... It's a somber day in Constantine. — continued

http://www.wwmt.com/news/constantine_1344709___article.html/jodi_friends.html

[odette]

Second suspect vehicle sought in homicide case

Police review leads, ask for tips

sturgisjournal.com - Corky Emrick - November 10, 2007

CONSTANTINE - Authorities are now seeking a second vehicle in connection with the death of Jodi Parrack of Constantine.

Parrack, 11, was found dead in Constantine Township Cemetery Thursday night.

At a press conference today, assistant prosecuting attorney Holly Curtis said the vehicle in question is a dark-colored pickup similar to a Ranger. — continued

http://www.sturgisjournal.com/articles/2007/11/10/news/doc47363297b0d21854637215.txt

[odette]

Constantine murder investigation

wndu.com - Stephanie Stang - Nov 10, 2007

Police are asking for help in finding any suspects in the death of an eleven year old Michigan girl. — continued

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http://www.wndu.com/news/headlines/11173771.html

[odette]

Community Remembers Young Girl

fox28.com - November 10, 2007

It’s all quiet on Third Street as many people remember the smiling face of 11-year-old Jodi Parrack.

Parrack’s Cousin Angela Elder says, "She was just the sweetest little girl, always happy. She was friends with everybody." — continued

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http://www.fox28.com/News/index.php?ID=27902

[odette]

Two Days After Girl's Death, Constantine Residents Searching for Answers

wsbt.com - Sarah Rice - Nov 10, 2007

(WSBT) Investigators are working round the clock trying to find answers in the death of 11-year-old Jodi Parrack. She disappeared Thursday afternoon and her body was found a few hours later in the Constantine Township Cemetery.

As some would say, it's a perfect example of small town, middle America.

"It just seems like everyone knows everyone," said Tommy Sicard.

News of Parrack's death sent shockwaves through Constantine. People can't stop talking or reading about it, especially at popular spots like Harvey's House diner. — continued

http://i20.tinypic.com/zlvipv.gif »
http://www.wsbt.com/news/11174776.html

[odette]

Police say public responds with 150 tips - People grieve with makeshift memorial where 11-year old's body was found

mlive.com - REX HALL JR. - November 11, 2007

CONSTANTINE -- Authorities continued Saturday to plead for information from the public in hopes of solving the killing of an 11-year-old girl. — continued

Excerpt: Friends remember Jodi

On Saturday, at the cemetery where Jodi's body was found, a makeshift memorial was created at the foot of a large tree.

There were lit candles, teddy bears, flowers, a card and a plastic box to drop off prayers.

"R.I.P., Sweet Miss Jodi,'' read a note placed atop the prayer box. "You will always be remembered and greatly missed. Our prayers are with your family.''

http://www.mlive.com/news/kzgazette/index.ssf?/base/news-26/1194758986127490.xml&coll=7

[odette]

Update On Jodi Parracks Murder Investigation

wwmt.com - November 11, 2007

Excerpt: A little girl with no medical problems, no drug problems and a clean bill of health, found dead in the cemetery with no physical evidence on her body.

Jodi was missing for six hours. She was last seen with friends before heading home on her bicycle at 4:45.

At 10:32, her body was found by her mother in the Constantine Township Cemetery.

That's where investigators combed the scene Friday morning, tagging potential evidence, looking for footprints, tire tracks, pieces of clothing, anything that can help them solve this case.

Both Jodi's body and her bicycle were found just a few feet from one another. Again, no physical evidence on her, no signs of strangulation, no bruising and no gun shot wound.

"To be found in a remote location like that at 10:30 at night, you always wonder why in the world that would be, and police officers tend to be cynical anyway so you always look at it as suspicious," said Chief Mark Honeysett, of the Constantine Police Department.

Jodi's body was sent to Grand Rapids for an autopsy. Preliminary results indicate that she was a victim of homicide. The cause of her death is still undetermined.

http://www.wwmt.com/news/police_1344723___article.html/constantine_jodi.html

[odette]

Constantine case is 'every parent's nitemare'

Constantine girl last seen riding bike from friend's house.

southbendtribune.com - LOU MUMFORD - November 11. 2007

CONSTANTINE -- After attending classes at Riverside Elementary School Thursday, 11-year-old fifth-grader Jodi Parrack came home, climbed on her silver bicycle and rode to a friend's house.

But shortly after she left the friend's house to return home, she became the victim of the village's first homicide in nearly 30 years. — continued

Excerpt: Curtis said Jodi was last seen about 4:45 p.m. riding her bicycle on Third Street. When she failed to return home by 5:30 as she was told, her family began looking for her, Curtis said.

The family notified police she was missing about 7:30. Honeysett said authorities were preparing to issue an Amber Alert when the child's mother found her body in the cemetery at 10:32 p.m.

Honeysett didn't identify Jodi's mother by name but said she and Jodi's two brothers "are holding up well ... considering what they've been through.''

http://www.southbendtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071111/News03/711110367/1130/Sports01

[haroldPE]

http://img249.imageshack.us/img249/567/48233283dj7.jpg
http://tinyurl.com/6owxl
Police say they're looking at a lot of evidence collected at the cemetery, and they're plowing through tips, contacting people and doing interviews.

Yet, what remains is an almost six-hour block of time no one can account for.

[One2Snoop]

Every parents worst nightmare! :eek: From what I read above it sounds as though someone's been casing the area for awhile now. I hope they find out who did this to Jodi. Such a beautiful young lady, may she rest in peace. :rose:

[odette]

Memorial grows where mother found girl's body

wwmt.com - November 12, 2007

CONSTANTINE (NEWSCHANNEL 3) – Kids are back to school just days after a little girl's murder cast a dark light on a small town in West Michigan. — continued

Excerpt: There are only a few bikes in the bike racks at riverside elementary Monday afternoon. More kids have been getting a ride home with an adult.

"From here on out I will pick my child up every day.” April Kneppel says the moms and dads in her neighborhood have made a deal: no child will head home on their own. "If I can't get here when I get off work, a couple others put together, they'll pick them up if I can't."

Seven is the number of kids Diane Warren is in charge of supervising as they walk to after school daycare. They used to make the short trek on their own. "It helps them, they knew the little girl, it helps us, helps ease the parents' minds,” said Warren.

http://www.wwmt.com/news/_1344751___article.html/_.html

[odette]

Small town shaken by homicide

woodtv.com - By JOE LaFURGEY

CONSTANTINE -- At the Meek's Mill Cafe, talk about the weather, deer hunting season and the approaching holidays has given way to a much darker topic: the mysterious death of an 11-year-old girl.

"Everybody's talking about it," said Lisa Johnson, a waitress at the caf. "Ya know, you think about your kids going to school. I make sure I'm driving my kids back and forth every day."

Johnson said it's bad enough to hear about it at work.

"Then to have your kids freaking out all the way to school, looking for a white van. The mystery van. I don't know." — continued

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http://www.woodtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7349287&nav=0RceYA7H

[odette]

Investigation continues into girl's murder

wndu.com - Sarah Platt - Nov 12, 2007

Four days later, it is a murder that continues to shock the small community of Constantine, Michigan. Last Thursday night, 11-year-old Jodi Parrack's body was found in a cemetery in town. Police say she was murdered.

Here's at look at where the investigation stands Monday night. This weekend, local police and the FBI followed up on about 300 tips. Investigators say there are no solid leads right now. The medical examiner is ruling Parrack's death a homicide, although they still are not releasing her cause of death. — continued

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http://www.wndu.com/news/headlines/11212066.html

[odette]

Fewer students at bus stops; community pays respects

By Rosalie Currier - Sturgis Journal - November 12, 2007

CONSTANTINE - Four days after 11-year-old Jodi Parrack was found dead, family, friends and community members gathered for visitation at Eley Funeral Home.

Her funeral is today at Trinity Missionary Church.

Community members, some who knew Jodi and some who didn't, are flocking to support the family. — continued

http://www.sturgisjournal.com/articles/2007/11/12/news/doc4739289f1e838134800829.txt

[odette]

Police hope for 'big break' in girl's death

kalamazoogazette.com - BY REX HALL JR. - November 12, 2007

CONSTANTINE -- Police said they spent the weekend doing interviews and poring over hundreds of tips, but still had no suspects and very little new information about the slaying of an 11-year-old girl. — continued

Excerpt: Meanwhile, officials at Eley Funeral Home in Constantine said they were expecting a large turnout today during visitation for Jodi, scheduled from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. A funeral service is set for 11 a.m. Tuesday at Trinity Missionary Church in Constantine.

At Riverside Elementary School in Constantine, where Jodi was a fifth-grader, Principal Craig Badman said counselors were on hand again this morning for students. School officials were running the day as normal and hoping that a musical assembly would be a diversion for a school dealing with the loss of "a wonderful young lady,'' he said.

"It's very mind-boggling to an adult, as well as to children,'' Badman said of Jodi's killing.

http://www.mlive.com/news/kzgazette/index.ssf?/base/news-26/1194883401104050.xml&coll=7

[odette]

250 Tips Pour Into Police in Murder Investigation of Constantine Girl

wsbt.com - by Leanne Tokars - Nov 12, 2007

(WSBT) Murder in a small town has people on edge and police looking for the person who killed an 11-year-old girl. — continued

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http://www.wsbt.com/news/local/11210021.html

[Joe Public]

I can't help but feel terrible for this little girl's family. I couldn't imagine finding that my little girl had been killed. My prayers are with this little girl who I KNOW is in heaven and her family. I also pray that whoever took the child from this world gets all that is coming to him in this life and the next!!! I hope that one day we will all be looking down on him while he is burning in Hell!!!

:rose: For this child. :rose: For her family. :rose: And for those who care enough to never rest in finding her killer.

[odette]

NANCY GRACE — CNN

11-year-old Michigan Girl Found Murdered in Cemetery

Aired November 12, 2007 - 20:00:00 ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

MIKE BROOKS, GUEST HOST: Tonight: Police search for a killer who could be stalking young children near Constantine, Michigan. An 11-year- old girl heads to a friend`s house on her bike, then disappears. Hours later, her own mom finds the little girl dead in a nearby cemetery. Police reveal sightings of two suspicious vehicles around the community, possibly connected to the attempted abduction. Are the same vehicles involved in the death of 11-year-old Jodi Parrack? — continued

http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0711/12/ng.01.html

[KTScarlettOkity]

As a member of this community, I hope the media stays away from the funeral service today. Our town is in pain and I was sickened to see the media descending upon our children as they were escorted to and from school yesterday. I pray we can find the peace we once had. I pray that this darling child is now in place of warmth and happiness. I pray her brothers and parents can get through this.

I can't help but remember just a few short weeks back to Halloween night in our little town. The sounds of kids having fun roaming the streets for treats warmed my heart. I remember hearing the silly screams and laughter and my greatest fear is that our town will never have that again.

[RaVeN71806]

This is so sad...my prayers our with the family of this little girl..:rose: ..I hope this person gets caught for the safety of the other children in that city..

[Pak31]

As a member of this community, I hope the media stays away from the funeral service today. Our town is in pain and I was sickened to see the media descending upon our children as they were escorted to and from school yesterday. I pray we can find the peace we once had. I pray that this darling child is now in place of warmth and happiness. I pray her brothers and parents can get through this.

I can't help but remember just a few short weeks back to Halloween night in our little town. The sounds of kids having fun roaming the streets for treats warmed my heart. I remember hearing the silly screams and laughter and my greatest fear is that our town will never have that again.

I am sure that it will KT but it will take awhile. I hope that your whole community heals from this soon. It's not fair that someone can not only do this to a child but the effect it has on the entire community is a crime as well. It's a shame that this is America yet you can't walk around in your own neighborhood with out fear.
My question for you or anyone is, and I have not found this out yet, but how long was the distance between Jodi's house and her friend's house?? Was the cemetery on her route home or was it out of the way? I know it was close to her home but wasn't it not the route she would have taken? I am just trying to get a mental picture of the situation. Thanks. She was a beautiful girl.

[KTScarlettOkity]

It was not far...6-7 blocks? Cemetery is not on the route...approximately 3 blocks east of the southbound street she should have been on. Contrary to reports, people do indeed cut through the cemetery quite a bit (it's not as remote or untraveled as it's being portrayed) rather than going a few a block further east to get to the next street which connects the 2 larger streets. However, that's usually vehicular traffic. But folks on foot do so as well.

Worst part for some of the kids has been the police/FBI interviews. You know kids, they have a hard time remember what color their socks are let alone details which may have been minute at the time. Sadly, we've had to have teachers escort some media out of Riverside and Eastside schools to protect kids from further scrutiny. And I know for a fact that some of the media were indeed almost belligerent about it.

I know everyone wants answers...the family and townfolk more than anyone. But I do wish some could be a bit more sensitive in the process particularly when it involves other children.

[Pak31]

It was not far...6-7 blocks? Cemetery is not on the route...approximately 3 blocks east of the southbound street she should have been on. Contrary to reports, people do indeed cut through the cemetery quite a bit (it's not as remote or untraveled as it's being portrayed) rather than going a few a block further east to get to the next street which connects the 2 larger streets. However, that's usually vehicular traffic. But folks on foot do so as well.

Worst part for some of the kids has been the police/FBI interviews. You know kids, they have a hard time remember what color their socks are let alone details which may have been minute at the time. Sadly, we've had to have teachers escort some media out of Riverside and Eastside schools to protect kids from further scrutiny. And I know for a fact that some of the media were indeed almost belligerent about it.

I know everyone wants answers...the family and townfolk more than anyone. But I do wish some could be a bit more sensitive in the process particularly when it involves other children.

Thanks for getting back to me. I have a better visual in my head now which clears things up for me a lot. Now that I know a little about her route, which wasn't too long, she left her friend's house sometime between 4:45 and 5:00 and she obviously wasn't home at her 5:30 curfew. So in that short time span something happened to her. My point is that it is very very scary that in a half of an hour and 6-7 blocks she's gone. Someone was watching her or just happened to spot her to be taken that quick. It is really quite scary. For someone to leave her where she would be found fairly quickly is awful as well. I hope that this person is found fast.
As far as your statements about the children go. It is too much for them to comprehend and handle. It's hard enough for the adults. Authorities and media need to be gentle with them. It is too traumatic for them. But like you said, the parents are staying close to them and that is what they need to do right now. Protect their kids from this predator and the media. It's easier for them to help their children than stop the media. Again, thanks for your clarifications. :)

[odette]

Constantine mourns 11-year-old

http://i9.tinypic.com/81p1ti0.jpg

http://www.woodtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7352705

:rose:

[RaVeN71806]

Constantine mourns 11-year-old

http://i9.tinypic.com/81p1ti0.jpg

http://www.woodtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7352705

:rose:

:( :rose: for the angel in heaven

[KTScarlettOkity]

Here is the headline today about the funeral yesterday.

http://www.mlive.com/news/kzgazette/index.ssf?/base/news-26/1195055752194070.xml&coll=7

I truly was a beautiful day in SW Michigan. Typically our November's are cold, rainy and cloudy. But I think God wanted a little sun to shine in our hearts after losing this little one. It's worthy to note the quote that hung on Jodi's bedroom door “Love is like a hug ... hang on to it tightly." Wise words indeed.

Last night brought another small scare. A young boy was sighted getting into a van late yesterday afternoon and it was reported causing the high school to be locked down (it was after hours and only kids there were practicing for an upcoming play). My stomach flipped when I got the phone call (husband helps with stage sound & lighting). We are all relieved that it turned out to be a perfectly innocent event. But I continue to pray that this person will be caught and that answers can help the healing process.

[FDInLaw]

HEARTBREAKING! Prayers for Jodi's family. . . I can't even imagine the loss they feel. :(

I hope the one responsible be found soon before another precious one is harmed!


JUSTICE FOR JODI!

:rose: :rose: :rose: :rose: :rose:

[AlsoKnownAs]

HEARTBREAKING! Prayers for Jodi's family. . . I can't even imagine the loss they feel. :(

I hope the one responsible be found soon before another precious one is harmed!


JUSTICE FOR JODI!

:rose: :rose: :rose: :rose: :rose:

+1 Well Put!
I cannot imagine the pain of the family and the community. It hast to be anagonizing moment for the Mother to find her. AKA

[odette]

Constantine Residents on Edge as Rumors Swirl After Girl's Murder

wsbt.com - Leanne Tokars - Nov 14, 2007

(WSBT) The murder of a young girl has left a community on edge and rumors running rampant.

Everything from abduction attempts to another body found in a cemetery — police are dealing with rumors in Constantine after 11-year-old Jodi Parrack's body was found in a cemetery Thursday. — continued

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http://www.wsbt.com/news/local/11313556.html

[odette]

Police Having Trouble Retracing Girl's Path Hours Before Her Death

wsbt.com - Nora Gathings - Nov 14, 2007

(WSBT) Police are re-tracing a young girl's last steps before her death, but they say the path ends blocks from where it began.

Now, investigators are going door to door talking to neighbors and business owners. They're searching for any clues about Jodi's Parrack's death. — continued

http://www.wsbt.com/news/local/11327126.html

[odette]

Abduction reports pour in

wwmt.com - November 14, 2007

CONSTANTINE (NEWSCHANNEL 3) - Many folks in the Village of Constantine are on edge.

Tensions have been running high there ever since 11-year-old Jodi Parrack was found dead last Thursday.

Tuesday night there was a report of an abduction after someone saw a young boy get into a van at the high school.

Our newsroom was flooded with calls and emails asking if there was in fact an abduction. — continued

http://i20.tinypic.com/zlvipv.gif »
http://www.wwmt.com/news/abduction_1344792___article.html/constantine_police.html

[odette]

Anxiety grips village

Suspicion of abduction briefly heightens tensions in Constantine

sturgisjournal.com - Corky Emrick - November 13, 2007

CONSTANTINE - The emotional strain being felt in Constantine became evident Tuesday evening.

On the day Jodi Parrack was laid to rest, panic overtook the community. Just before 7 p.m., police received a report by someone who believed they may have seen a child abduction.

Police determined the sighting was of a child being picked up from school.

The report had come from a concerned student.

"We are very thankful that the child made the report," Constantine Police Chief and village manager Mark Honeysett said. "He called us when he saw something suspicious."

Not long after the report was made, word spread throughout the village, along with rumors that another body had been found. — continued

http://www.sturgisjournal.com/articles/2007/11/13/news/doc473a7ce0beaca515094075.txt

[aradarlove]

My thoughts go out to the family, love ones and friends of Jodi as the hearts are full of burden and hurt right now.

there is a group site for parents of murdered children (POMC) http://www.pomc.com/ that helps a lot in this time of need. It helped me and i am even starting a chapter here in California.

I lost my son last year to a murderer also. Of couse the lead detective messed it up from the beginning, dropped the ball, but in Jodi's case you have several men and women from several professional and well trained departments working on her murder. They are working as a team, not a one man show as in my case.

its plain to see that its someone close to her, that knew her and a town resident, that did this terrible thing to this precious angel, but.......... at our lord above reached down moments before and wrapped her in his arms and stopped her from being afraid and stopped her from feeling any pain.

... bless the family... dan

[odette]

My thoughts go out to the family, love ones and friends of Jodi as the hearts are full of burden and hurt right now.

there is a group site for parents of murdered children (POMC) http://www.pomc.com/ that helps a lot in this time of need. It helped me and i am even starting a chapter here in California.

I lost my son last year to a murderer also. Of couse the lead detective messed it up from the beginning, dropped the ball, but in Jodi's case you have several men and women from several professional and well trained departments working on her murder. They are working as a team, not a one man show as in my case.

its plain to see that its someone close to her, that knew her and a town resident, that did this terrible thing to this precious angel, but.......... at our lord above reached down moments before and wrapped her in his arms and stopped her from being afraid and stopped her from feeling any pain.

... bless the family... dan

Thank you for sharing aradarlove .. I am so very sorry that you lost your son.

God Bless You :rose:

[odette]

Probe enters seventh day

Police sift through hundreds of tips, but no suspect yet in Parrack homicide case

sturgisjournal.com - Corky Emrick - November 14, 2007

CONSTANTINE - With the investigation of who killed

11-year-old Jodi Parrack ending its first week, police continue to sift through hundreds of tips.

Mark Honeysett, Constantine police chief and village manager, said police had received more than 320 tips as of Wednesday morning. — continued

http://www.sturgisjournal.com/articles/2007/11/14/news/doc473bc89f1b6cc048651363.txt

[odette]

A Community Up in Arms

fox28.com - November 14, 2007

It's been nearly a week since Jodi Parrack, 11, was kidnapped and murdered.

Constantine Police are still working closely with the FBI to try and to piece together exactly what happened that night.

Every day without answers, instills more fear into the people who live in that small town.

On Tuesday night alone, the Constantine Police Department took more than 200 phone calls.

The calls varied from reports of another abduction involving a boy and a white van to a 14 year-old girl found dead.

While none of these stories was true, police accepted each call as a possible tip that might lead them to answers.

They say the community is on pins and needles. — continued

http://i20.tinypic.com/zlvipv.gif »
http://www.fox28.com/News/index.php?ID=28152

[KTScarlettOkity]

Aradarlove~ My condolences as well for the loss of your child. I cannot imagine your pain. Nor can I truly imagine the pain Jodi's parents are dealing with.

We were so glad the FBI was called in to assist our local police. While they're good at what they do, our local police haven't had to deal with a murder in our town since the 70's. Although I must admit my niece was sufficiently terrified and in awe when she was interviewed by a real live FBI agent. (Part of the door to door interviews.)

The truth about the rumors is true. As I indicated in a past post, I knew about the scare related to the boy getting into the van because my husband was at the high school that night. But I quickly received multiple calls from other folks looking for confirmation of the rumors. It's just all so jarring and confusing.

There is no evidence that this horrible act was committed by a town person. We simply do not know. Although I can say that some are indeed trying to stop the rumors and the panic that follows. I hope reason can prevail amongst everyone until we do get so solid answers from law enforcement.

I thank you all for continuing to pray for Jodi's family and our little town. Something like this can tear a community apart or make it come together. So far thankfully it's been the latter.

[aradarlove]

thanks for the kind words you wrote about my son. Losing a child makes you hurt as if you have a very painful kidney stone in your heart. And i am sure more painful for a mother who carried that baby for 9 months.

As you noted and i wrote you have some very professional people working your loss there and they have un-limited resources behind them.

Sure the good book says in so many ways "worrying does not change the future", and in this case it won't either, but everyone there needs to think and remember that even the most terrible things in the world can come knocking on a small towns door. which brings me to this point.

I am sure the professionals working this case have a petty good idea who they want for this loss to Jodi. And i state again i and them feel or know that it was someone from there and also knew her, was close to her. Because a stranger does not abduct someone and leave them within 1/2 to 1 mile from where they took them, and leave the bike there also. a bike i must add would show maybe traces of the person who did this, but, Someone who lives there would go un-noticed being in the area, would know a safe place thats close to lay her down and even would not be afraid of someone finding the bike with their prints on them, because their prints would already have a reason to be on the bike.

As the police noted before, a child will be the breaking of this case even if they don't realize right now they hold the clue. Someone saw something and don't think it was out of line. they think what they saw was normal, as a person they know was in the area, a person they know that has a reason to be around them, around Jodi, someone that maybe has given they a ride before or has done things that they are scared to tell because this person/s has scared them with bad stories, which i don't want to mention right now. Again, someone local or close to the child would fit in and know what buttons to push or ploy to use to fool someone.

Again katie i feel for you, your family and Constantine and white Pigeon because a bad person showed their true colors and the FBI talking to your family was a blessing because they know how to talk to a child and ask the right questions.

Again Katie & Odette, i pray for everyone involved in nightmare. dan

[odette]

Constantine Police Say They're Closer to Finding 11-Year-Old's Killer

wsbt.com - Sarah Rice - Nov 15, 2007

(WSBT) It's been a week, but still no arrest in the murder of an 11-year-old Constantine, Mich. girl. Police say they're closer to finding whoever killed Jodi Parrack. — continued

Excerpt: Finding out what happened lies within the path Jodi Parrack took the night she was killed. Police say Jodi Parrack left her friend's house at the 100-block of East Third Street and headed west toward the downtown area.

Just a block away is where she was last seen at the intersection of East Third Street and Washington. Police say after she left there someone had to have seen her.

"It stands to reason that she was somewhere between where she was last seen and the time that she met her killer, [it] stands to reason that someone would have seen her," said Honeysett.

Her home is located on the 600 block of Centreville Road, less than 3/4 of a mile from where she was last seen. Jodi's mother was expecting her home at 5:30.

http://i6.tinypic.com/6o3zwgk.jpg

http://i20.tinypic.com/zlvipv.gif »
http://www.wsbt.com/news/local/11389066.html

[odette]

http://i3.tinypic.com/8az0nqw.jpg

[odette]

Jodi's mom: Murder a 'nightmare'

mlive.com - Rex Hall Jr., Kathy Jessup - November 16, 2007

CONSTANTINE -- Valerie Jo Carver said she knew her 11-year-old daughter was dead even before headlights illuminated her bicycle propped by a cemetery headstone last Thursday.

The mother says Jodi Christine Parrack "looked peaceful" when Carver found her youngest child lying in the dark among dry, crimson leaves in the Constantine Township Cemetery.

"She looked like she was sleeping," Carver said. "Her eyes were closed, her mouth was closed -- she was beautiful."

Carver said she cried, screamed, vomited and finally cradled her daughter's lifeless body in the cemetery grass. But the Constantine mother said hours before she and friends found Jodi's body, "I just knew she was dead." CONTINUED (http://blog.mlive.com/kzgazette/2007/11/jodis_mom_murder_a_nightmare.html)

http://i5.tinypic.com/7xskzy9.jpg
Valerie Carver, mother of slain 11-year-old Jodi Parrack, holds a "big, fat, cat with big eyes" named Zap. Carver said her daughter fell in love with the cat at an animal shelter the day before Jodi was murdered.
Merissa Ferguson / Kalamazoo Gazette

[odette]

Slaying puts village on edge

mlive.com - Rex Hall Jr. - Kathy Jessup - November 16, 2007

Excerpt: Honeysett said police are specifically interested in speaking with anyone who may have seen Jodi after 4:45 p.m. when she was last spotted at the downtown street corner.

"Multiple friends have her westbound on East Third Street, almost to South Washington Street (U.S. 131) at 4:45 p.m.," he reported. "At that point she was headed the opposite direction from her home and she was alone. We're not sure after that if she crossed South Washington or went north or south."

"That could be the absolute key" to solving the case, Honeysett said.

The chief would not say whether police believe the girl was killed in the cemetery or left there with the bicycle after she was already dead. He did say that, although the crime scene may have been disturbed when civilian searchers found the girl's body, investigators recovered a substantial number of "artifacts" from the scene that are being analyzed for links to suspects. He declined to name any specific evidence.

CONTINUED (http://blog.mlive.com/kzgazette/2007/11/slaying_puts_village_on_edge.html)

[KTScarlettOkity]

Keep in mind that Jodi was last seen going towards town which is opposite of where her house and the cemetery are. Washington Street is actually US 131. That's a VERY heavily traveled road that runs almost the entire the length of MI from the Indiana border.

[LatrobeGirl]

Is there any more info being reported on her cause of death? It seems so strange that she was fully clothed (no molestation?) and unbruised, no strangulation, no obvious wounds. My guess would be smothering, but it just seems so odd that she wouldn't even have any defensive bruising. Or could she have been poisoned? What could be the motive, if it isn't the usual pervert wanting to rape a child?

I don't mean to sound so brutal and matter-of-fact....I'm just puzzled. I guess I'm also pretty jaded sometimes, because I can't help but wonder if any family members are involved since she has such a lack of injuries. I sure hope not.

In the meantime, until questions are answered....I pray that Jodi Christine will rest in peace :rose:

This world is an awful place when our children cannot even ride a bike a few blocks without something like this being a possibility.....

[aradarlove]

hello everyone. again i read about this case and more questions keep popping up. i still feel so sorry to the people who really loved jodi. their hearts and souls will never be the same.

as the reports are being released by police (information they want you to know or believe) it still points to someone who is close to her.

of concern to me is you not hearing nothing about dad or step-dad and if they are a part of this for any reason, and unfortunately its also proven that mom usually knows something. its unfortunately proven that a huge group of moms will cover for the husband or boyfriend.

also what really bothers me is mom's statement she knew Jodi was dead?????

odette, you are right on top of these terrible things across the country so i am not pointing fingers here and we never know what we would think or do if we were that mother cause we are not her, but i wonder if she was with a group of people who suggested looking at the cemetery? which one in the group?

nothing worst then losing a child to violent's, nothing. a mother would search everywhere else first, all jodi's friends home, playground/park, school, stores, etc, etc, before and she wouldn't even think of a cemetery, i don't think. wonder who in her group suggested that?

[aradarlove]

thanks for your post and your questions and concerns are what a lot of people are wondering, suggesting, but are afraid to admit or say they are thinking that way.

first off the police/fbi may already know know how and what means killed precious Jodi and they know if there was sexual abuse, dna, physical evidence, etc, but they don't want to show all their cards yet, for several reasons, most to scare the suspect off or for the suspect to they to cover their tracks more, also some defense attorney would fight that the fbi/police had blindfolds on and never looked for anyone else except their client.

I will stand behind what i have stated LatrobeGirl, i in my heart believe it was someone very, very close to Jodi.

You have to remember, those involved have to get all their lies in order, but their stories will keep changing. NO MOTHER wants to say i knew she was dead. A mother and father wants to believe she is alive and out there somewhere and will return safe.

Jodi died by the hands of someone she knew, maybe someone she trusted, maybe by someone she was ready to expose for one reason or another. and whats sad, is someone or several are protecting or covering my the person/s who it this to one of god's children. dan

[odette]

hello everyone. again i read about this case and more questions keep popping up. i still feel so sorry to the people who really loved jodi. their hearts and souls will never be the same.

as the reports are being released by police (information they want you to know or believe) it still points to someone who is close to her.

of concern to me is you not hearing nothing about dad or step-dad and if they are a part of this for any reason, and unfortunately its also proven that mom usually knows something. its unfortunately proven that a huge group of moms will cover for the husband or boyfriend.

also what really bothers me is mom's statement she knew Jodi was dead?????

odette, you are right on top of these terrible things across the country so i am not pointing fingers here and we never know what we would think or do if we were that mother cause we are not her, but i wonder if she was with a group of people who suggested looking at the cemetery? which one in the group?

nothing worst then losing a child to violent's, nothing. a mother would search everywhere else first, all jodi's friends home, playground/park, school, stores, etc, etc, before and she wouldn't even think of a cemetery, i don't think. wonder who in her group suggested that?

aradarlove .. further down the page, in that article in the Kalamazoo Gazette, it is mentioned that "a friend" said 'Has anybody checked the cemetery?'

Excerpt From Article In The Kalamazoo Gazette: Carver said it was not unusual for Jodi to come home after school and go off to be with friends the remainder of the afternoon.

But Carver says her daughter always returned home by her 5:30 p.m. curfew.

Until Nov. 8.

When 5:45 p.m. arrived and Jodi didn't, Carver said she went to Jodi's friend's house looking for her. Her young friend had gone to a scouting meeting and the two mothers agreed Jodi had probably tagged along.

But when the friend returned home and Carver learned Jodi hadn't gone with her, "I knew somebody had took her."

Carver said she went to the Constantine Police Department to report her daughter missing.

After making the report, Carver, joined by family and friends, began checking parks, school grounds and even a local construction site.

"A friend of ours said, 'Has anybody checked the cemetery?' so we drove there," said Carver, whose rented home is less than a block from the burial ground. "When I saw her bike leaned up against the stone, she (the driver) didn't even stop the car before I jumped out and ran."

Investigators won't comment on whether they believe the girl was killed where she was found or at another location, then left in the cemetery.

And while Honeysett says he doesn't believe the community should "panic that there's a child predator in Constantine," Carver advises parents, "Don't let your kids go anywhere by themselves."

http://blog.mlive.com/kzgazette/2007/11/jodis_mom_murder_a_nightmare.html

[odette]

Is there any more info being reported on her cause of death? It seems so strange that she was fully clothed (no molestation?) and unbruised, no strangulation, no obvious wounds. My guess would be smothering, but it just seems so odd that she wouldn't even have any defensive bruising. Or could she have been poisoned? What could be the motive, if it isn't the usual pervert wanting to rape a child?

I don't mean to sound so brutal and matter-of-fact....I'm just puzzled. I guess I'm also pretty jaded sometimes, because I can't help but wonder if any family members are involved since she has such a lack of injuries. I sure hope not.

In the meantime, until questions are answered....I pray that Jodi Christine will rest in peace :rose:

This world is an awful place when our children cannot even ride a bike a few blocks without something like this being a possibility.....

LatrobeGirl .. in the below quoted article it says, "Her cause of death is still undetermined."

Slaying puts village on edge

mlive.com - Kalamazoo Gazette - Rex Hall Jr. - Kathy Jessup - November 16, 2007

Excerpt: Police have declined to say if Jodi was fully clothed when she was found or if there was any indication she had been sexually assaulted. Her cause of death is still undetermined.

Excerpt: Honeysett expressed confidence that arrests will be made, but gave no timetable for naming suspects.

http://blog.mlive.com/kzgazette/2007/11/slaying_puts_village_on_edge.html

[LatrobeGirl]

I noticed, too, about this statement by the mother.....that someone else suggested checking the cemetary. But we have to remember, this is the mother's story. Who knows what really happened?

I have mixed feelings about pointing any fingers at the mother....but I found her story in the article disturbing, somehow. Actually, it was the fact that she GAVE an interview and let her picture be taken with the cat...something about her eyes, and the slight smile, bothers me.

I have never been in her situation (please, God, never!)....so maybe I just need to shut up. But even eight days after....I doubt I would be granting interviews. Everyone reacts differently, I guess....but I think I would want to crawl in a hole somewhere and never come out to see the light of day. I think I would need hospitalized, I really do.

aradarlove, thanks for your input. I'd imagine that the police are keeping things close to the vest, especially with the rumor-mill there working overtime. I think you're right- I think it was someone close to her.:(

The only thing worse than a child being killed by a stranger....is a child being killed by someone they love and/or trust.

[LatrobeGirl]

Oh, and thanks, Odette, for the info. I will definitely be watching this case...

[Pak31]

I noticed, too, about this statement by the mother.....that someone else suggested checking the cemetary. But we have to remember, this is the mother's story. Who knows what really happened?

I have mixed feelings about pointing any fingers at the mother....but I found her story in the article disturbing, somehow. Actually, it was the fact that she GAVE an interview and let her picture be taken with the cat...something about her eyes, and the slight smile, bothers me.

I have never been in her situation (please, God, never!)....so maybe I just need to shut up. But even eight days after....I doubt I would be granting interviews. Everyone reacts differently, I guess....but I think I would want to crawl in a hole somewhere and never come out to see the light of day. I think I would need hospitalized, I really do.

aradarlove, thanks for your input. I'd imagine that the police are keeping things close to the vest, especially with the rumor-mill there working overtime. I think you're right- I think it was someone close to her.:(

The only thing worse than a child being killed by a stranger....is a child being killed by someone they love and/or trust.


Hi, I am on the fence on this one. I just am relying on news updates to handle the situation. I was literally attacked on another site for even questioning why the girl was allowed to travel home by herself? I asked mainly because I have a 10 year old who doesn't go out by herself on a bike any more than a block or so. Call me paranoid. But, it was just a question, I wasn't blaming the mother for her death, it was an honest question. I wanted to get a feel for the situation in order to understand her homelife. I was pretty much put to shame in a few posts afterward being told I had no sympathy and how dare I question her, she just lost her child. It's so hard to communicate on the internet because people take things the wrong way. I guess my point is that I am glad some others think the way I do. I guess I have been on sites like this too often, where I see all the situations people get into, what to look for etc. that I become an armchair detective. But I truly feel we are allowed to question all of a situation without personally blaming anyone, we are just trying to get answers. That's all. Something doesn't add up to me either but I will just have to wait and see.

[aradarlove]

i surely agree with what you just wrote. i also was beat up by the admit on here for stating my opinion and pointing out the obvious. i thought thats what these pages are all about.

but if you don't agree with someone else, or point out a view other then theirs, they write admit and complain how you offend them.

My opinion and my opinion alone here, and not to say anyone else is wrong is still what i have stated from the beginning. and i will be stright to the point.

mom knows, another family member knows and a friend of the family knows who and how this beautiful looking Jodi died.

again, a mom is the last person who would even think that her precious baby was dead, even before the baby was found, or the location she was found. a mom is 99.9% of the time the last person to think her baby is dead, even after it is confirmed.

also, who ever was in that group of people in that auto that suggested the cemetery needs a closer look at.

footnote: these are just my opinions, not the opinion of admit or any other person.

[SimplySue]

Here is the headline today about the funeral yesterday.

http://www.mlive.com/news/kzgazette/index.ssf?/base/news-26/1195055752194070.xml&coll=7

I truly was a beautiful day in SW Michigan. Typically our November's are cold, rainy and cloudy. But I think God wanted a little sun to shine in our hearts after losing this little one. It's worthy to note the quote that hung on Jodi's bedroom door “Love is like a hug ... hang on to it tightly." Wise words indeed.

Last night brought another small scare. A young boy was sighted getting into a van late yesterday afternoon and it was reported causing the high school to be locked down (it was after hours and only kids there were practicing for an upcoming play). My stomach flipped when I got the phone call (husband helps with stage sound & lighting). We are all relieved that it turned out to be a perfectly innocent event. But I continue to pray that this person will be caught and that answers can help the healing process.

Another child dead in a community where it just doesn't happen. My prayers go out to her family and also the community as a whole. Hopefully they will catch the person responsible for this tragic murder.

Hugs and prayers to you as well KT, i can imagine how terrifying it was when you got the call regarding the little boy.

:rose:

[Mishell1383]

Rest In Peace Jodi :rose: You are in my prayers

[KTScarlettOkity]

For the record ARADARLOVE, I respectfully requested that the admin remove MY posts. I reported MY posts because you were upset about my opinion which was misunderstood to begin with. I did NOT report your posts. I reported MINE.

The very last thing I need or wanted was to upset this community by posting a request that we consider waiting until law enforcement pointed the finger before passing judgment. When I saw your posts it was clear that my opinion was unwelcome thus I requested that the admin pull all my posts.

I really wasn't going to come back here after last Friday's posts that upset me so I will apologize again for upsetting anyone. Although I'm new to the this posting board, I have enjoyed reading and commiserating. I hope that my different opinion on this particular matter isn't held against me.

[Mishell1383]

For the record ARADARLOVE, I respectfully requested that the admin remove MY posts. I reported MY posts because you were upset about my opinion which was misunderstood to begin with. I did NOT report your posts. I reported MINE.

The very last thing I need or wanted was to upset this community by posting a request that we consider waiting until law enforcement pointed the finger before passing judgment. When I saw your posts it was clear that my opinion was unwelcome thus I requested that the admin pull all my posts.

I really wasn't going to come back here after last Friday's posts that upset me so I will apologize again for upsetting anyone. Although I'm new to the this posting board, I have enjoyed reading and commiserating. I hope that my different opinion on this particular matter isn't held against me.
If I can go off topic for just a moment, I apologise for doing so, but.... Katie first and foremost, don't ever feel like you can't come back here due to a problem on the boards, that is why we have the lounge, (which you have joined in and we have loved your company) when things get tough out here, which they will, we go to the lounge to let off some steam.

Secondly, this is a message board, which all types of opinions, ideas and thoughts are welcome. A message board isn't always going to be an agreeable place, and more often than not, it won't be. We all have difference of opinions and they are allowed to be voiced here, that is the point of crimelibrary. Healthy debate.

Please continue posting how you feel, and how you feel only. We want you to continue sharing your personal opinions, especially on this case, I enjoyed reading your posts because you are in Jodi's community, you give us an idea of what her town looks like.

Don't let anyone make you feel that you are not welcome.

Sorry for the off topic. Thanks

[LatrobeGirl]

Okay, hopefully this won't be considered "off-topic", but I guess I missed whatever "controversy" went down last Friday....but I have to say that I joined this board because after "lurking" awhile I saw that is really is a place where you can voice opinions without getting slammed. I think that here, people recognize that you might just be "thinking out loud"....and not necessarily have set your opinions in stone, so to speak.

And for the record, I just want to say that whatever misgivings I have about the mother....I REALLY hope I'm wrong, I hope I'm completely off-the-wall. Because like I said....if there's anything worse than a child being killed by a stranger, it's a child killed by someone they love and trust.

I haven't gotten to the point yet where I am actually accusing Jodi's mother....I'm just curious about some points, and I have to say that the interview and picture was disquieting to me.

[Pak31]

Okay, hopefully this won't be considered "off-topic", but I guess I missed whatever "controversy" went down last Friday....but I have to say that I joined this board because after "lurking" awhile I saw that is really is a place where you can voice opinions without getting slammed. I think that here, people recognize that you might just be "thinking out loud"....and not necessarily have set your opinions in stone, so to speak.

And for the record, I just want to say that whatever misgivings I have about the mother....I REALLY hope I'm wrong, I hope I'm completely off-the-wall. Because like I said....if there's anything worse than a child being killed by a stranger, it's a child killed by someone they love and trust.

I haven't gotten to the point yet where I am actually accusing Jodi's mother....I'm just curious about some points, and I have to say that the interview and picture was disquieting to me.

Nicely put Latrobegirl. I agree with what you wrote. I love people and I love discussing issues and cases with people. Granted it's harder to do it on a message board because it takes longer to discuss things and what you write can be misinterpreted the wrong way. Then it takes days to clear up one little misunderstanding. When we discuss a case or situation, all kinds of ideas or questions come up, some good some bad. I would never ever accuse Jodi's mom of murdering her, that would be wrong. BUT, to ask questions to other board members here like, "why did her mom do this?" or "where was her mom", these are just questions because you are trying to figure out a puzzle. But for me, on another forum elsewhere, I asked a question like that and people jumped on me saying "how dare you question her mother!!, this woman's daughter was murdered and you have the nerve to question her parenting skills!" I was hurt and shocked. That was NOT what I was doing, I was new to the case and wanted to get the whole picture to better understand it but instead was accused of blaming the mom. So sometimes you can't win. But, we are entitled to feel what we want. Here at least, it's more civilized and if I ask a question it gets answered without a fight. Like I said I like to discuss the cases and that means looking at it from one end to the other.

[KTScarlettOkity]

It most certainly does make sense to look very closely at the family and community to find out exactly what role if any was played in this horrible event. There is a fair amount of speculation being whispered all over the town and my fervent wish is that law enforcement can provide answers either accusing or expunging the family members of guilt. Trust me, I've heard some wild stories and speculation in the past week.

Pack31, I do understand you wondering about why she was allowed to bike by herself. And the only answer I can give is that I used to see kids all the time biking alone or in pairs around town. It wasn't unusual in the least for kids to jump on their bikes and run down to town for candy or a pop. So my answer is, people truly did feel safe letting their kids make short trips around town. On Halloween night I saw kids trick or treating together in groups some even younger than Jodi without parents. It was just small town sense of security. Clearly a false sense of security.

But clearly, that won't happen around here again. Even with crossing guards on many busy corner, kids aren't even allowed to walk to school let alone play outside unsupervised.

Could there be a monster among us? Indeed there could be. But my personal stance is that I want to wait until I hear more solid evidence from the authorities before drawing a conclusion.

[LatrobeGirl]

At the risk of "overdoing it", I'd like to comment on the questioning of a murdered child's parenting skills:

IMO, I feel it's a legitimate way of looking at a situation. Undoubtedly, a parent's job is to nurture and protect their kids. All of us parents know that you simply cannot watch over them every minute of every day.....but some parents certainly try (I have been accused of that more than once). When something bad happens to a child who is out of a parent's sight, it doesn't necessarily mean that person is a bad parent.

But some parents do put their children in hazardous situations simply because of the lifestyle they live.

If a parent chooses to keep company with people of questionable morals and values....then they shouldn't be surprised when some of those low morals and values affect their children, or that their children are made victims of those people.

If a parent lives in a "bad neighborhood"....even if they are forced to be there by circumstances.....then they have a greater responsibility to know where their children are at all times.

It's all part of being a parent. Sometimes a child is simply a victim of opportunity....being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Sometimes a child is a victim of being trapped in an unhealthy environment where the question is not IF they will become a victim....but WHEN and how.

[KTScarlettOkity]

If a parent chooses to keep company with people of questionable morals and values....then they shouldn't be surprised when some of those low morals and values affect their children, or that their children are made victims of those people.

If a parent lives in a "bad neighborhood"....even if they are forced to be there by circumstances.....then they have a greater responsibility to know where their children are at all times.

All very true Latrobegirl.

In case anyone is interested, I found an interesting study of child abduction/murder cases done in 2006.

http://missingchild.wordpress.com/2006/07/17/2006-child-abduction-murder-study/

There are links on that article to the actual study conducted by the US government. Very interesting statistics. Here's a link to the summary:

http://www.atg.wa.gov/uploadedFiles/Another/Supporting_Law_Enforcement/Homicide_Investigation_Tracking_System_(HITS)/Child_Abduction_Murder_Research/CMIIReport-Exec-Summary.pdf

Here's a link to the full study:

http://www.atg.wa.gov/uploadedFiles/Another/Supporting_Law_Enforcement/Homicide_Investigation_Tracking_System_(HITS)/Child_Abduction_Murder_Research/CMIIPDF.pdf

[slynn14]

It most certainly does make sense to look very closely at the family and community to find out exactly what role if any was played in this horrible event. There is a fair amount of speculation being whispered all over the town and my fervent wish is that law enforcement can provide answers either accusing or expunging the family members of guilt. Trust me, I've heard some wild stories and speculation in the past week.

Pack31, I do understand you wondering about why she was allowed to bike by herself. And the only answer I can give is that I used to see kids all the time biking alone or in pairs around town. It wasn't unusual in the least for kids to jump on their bikes and run down to town for candy or a pop. So my answer is, people truly did feel safe letting their kids make short trips around town. On Halloween night I saw kids trick or treating together in groups some even younger than Jodi without parents. It was just small town sense of security. Clearly a false sense of security.

But clearly, that won't happen around here again. Even with crossing guards on many busy corner, kids aren't even allowed to walk to school let alone play outside unsupervised.

Could there be a monster among us? Indeed there could be. But my personal stance is that I want to wait until I hear more solid evidence from the authorities before drawing a conclusion.

KT, I'm sorry for what is going on in your community and for the family, it truly is sad :(. I understand how it feels to go through something like this,my heart does go out to all.
I hope the police and law enforcement find more leads to the case.

From what I have read about the case it seems like whomever is accountable for doing this to Jodi, lives close by or at least someone that is familiar with the town.

slynn14

[aradarlove]

i wonder

[aradarlove]

the outside professional's (FBI-SHERIFF) that are investigating this case know what questions to ask, how to ask them, and not to say anything to harm this case so these bad people will go away for a long time.

Jodi is being held in our lords arms, as my son who was murdered and other children. They are in a safe place where no one else can hurt them. They are feeling a bond in a better place. A bond even more strong then a bond a mom and a child has. dan

[Wichita]

According to statistics compiled by the FBI for 2006, there were 14,990 murder victims. Of that number, 1,905 victims were murdered by strangers, where the murderer was identified. Of the total victims then, 12.75 % of the time, a murder is committed stranger to stranger.

Out of the 14,990 victims, 42.25% were murdered by acquaintances, or family members. The rest, or 45.03%, were unknown, because the murderer has not been identified.

What are the chances that Jodi was murdered by someone who knew her? I am not good at math, so you might want to go to www.fbi.gov/ucr and find the table that breaks out these statistics. However, it's clear that of the solved cases (57.75% approximately), there is a greater probability that a victim will be murdered by an acquaintance or family member than by a stranger. The point is that the police know this, and will start eliminating suspects within the family before focusing on a stranger, unless there is evidence that the murderer was clearly a stranger. The lack of a sexual assault on a little girl could make one suspect a family member. This crime occurred in a very small town where "everyone knows everyone". Just FWIW.

[Bluefox]

Is there still no word about the actual cause of death? Is it possible then, with no outward signs at all, that she may have been smothered?

She was a very bonnie looking girl, i hope justice is found, no one so young should have to die.

[odette]

Who killed Jodi?

Nov 22, 2007

CONSTANTINE -- Two weeks later, The stuffed animals, the porcelain angel and the flameless candles are the only reminders of the place Jodi Parrack's body was found. — continued

http://www.woodtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7394825&nav=0RceCXcs

[Pak31]

Let's pray someone knows something or saw something and comes forward soon. If the killer was someone just passing thru town, he/she could be so far away by now. We still don't know if any DNA evidence was found or manner of death, right?? I have not heard what the police have so far. I believe I read she was last seen going in the opposite direction of home, which seems a little odd but could be innocent. It's just sad that someone knows but who is that someone?

[Bluefox]

There are a few things which are very perplexing here! If someone abducted Jodi, why would they take the time to take her bike also? and wouldn't they take her further away to do whatever deeds they were planning. Instead we find that her bike is feet from her body, and she's dead a matter of yards from her home?? Who would you go to a cemetary with? Someone you know and trust? Food for thought. :shrug:

[LatrobeGirl]

There are a few things which are very perplexing here! If someone abducted Jodi, why would they take the time to take her bike also? and wouldn't they take her further away to do whatever deeds they were planning. Instead we find that her bike is feet from her body, and she's dead a matter of yards from her home?? Who would you go to a cemetary with? Someone you know and trust? Food for thought. :shrug:

I was just thinking over the weekend about this: the fact that Jodi was last seen heading in the opposite direction of the cemetary and her own home. Yet her bike was found with her. So, just as Bluefox said, what abductor would take the time to take the child's bike?

However, if she was killed, let's say....at home or at the home of someone she knew. Whoever killed her would want it to look as if she was out on her bike when she was abducted and killed. A random abductor wouldn't care about her bike.....but a killer known to Jodi would want to plant the bike near her body....the killer certainly wouldn't want Jodi's bike found at his/her home.

Again, I think at the end of this it will turn out to be someone who Jodi knew and trusted.

[Bluefox]

The people who are local and know Jodi and her family, have their own suspicions/facts.

The only reason others have come up with suspicions, is because they can see some red flags. I for one hope the police get enough on the manipulating scum who killed that wee girl.

Jodi is apparently expected home, but instead, she's seen walking in the opposite direction. Why? Didn't she want to go home? Again, why? As someone said, it's a very busy road, why are there no reports of seeing her?
Someone being abducted into a van 'with her bike' would surely be remembered by those driving past!

When Jodi wasn't home by 5.30 the mother just 'knew somebody had taken her'? Why jump to that conclusion? She could have come home any second. Then the mother just 'knew she was dead' how the heck could she pose for that pic, smiling? Then the mother finds her in the cemetary. She went straight from A to B to C, when the police hadn't even started their own search yet!

If it were me, and it was my daughter, i wouldn't come out with "she looked so peaceful" i'd be shouting, "someone did this, let me get my hands on the barsteward"

Smothering sounds like a panic killing to keep someone quiet. In the earlier reports, police were telling parents to be careful, in light of reports about vans cruising. the later they said " we don't believe the community should panic that there's a child predator in the area" so i agree with the earlier post that the police are playing this close to their chest, and making sure they get it right.

[Smmns4]

This is my first time on any kind of message board. I have been following this particular one for weeks trying to get insight & answers to this horrific event. This incident is very close to home, as I am a mother of two young children, grew up in Constantine and my parents still live there. My family stills live in the area and I am surprised that as time goes on there seems to be little more information, atleast that is being released. Hopefully the police have much evidence and are close to finding and arresting the person who did this. There are many things that like many have said...just do not add up. I am not pointing the finger at anyone however, I was taken back to see the particular picture of the mother along with the story in the Kalamzoo Gazette. The story and picture seemed odd. If that was me, I'm not sure I would be ready to be interviewed so soon after I had lost my daughter. And if I was I would definately be angry and on a mission to find my daughter's killer. I would make sure the article specifically focused on finding my daughter's killer. I didn't sense that from what I read. I find it very interesting that in another recent newspaper article (Kzoo Gazette???) it noted that the Carver family has moved from the house they were living in. The article said it was an already planned moved. It didn't mention if they were still in the area or state. Obviously in a small town rumors fly. I have tried to not get involved in the "rumor" mill as I have many friends & family in this small town. So I've held myself back from calling & seeing exactly what is being said. I sure hope whoever did this will pay the price for taking this little girl's life.

[Constantine2002]

I went to high school in Constantine and my parents live right next door to the cemetary where Jodi was found. It doesn't surprise me at all that the entire town is paranoid and on edge (as well they should be after such a terrible happening). But I've always felt like rumors get spread way to fast in small towns, and Constantine is no exception.

From what knowledge I gather, Jodi lived behind the cemetary, and it was normal for her to be walking through there quite often. Also, the cemetary is usually a very busy place. It's not only the largest in the area, it's the only major cemetary in Constantine. Therefore, it's usually well-trafficked. I saw someone reply something having to do with the comment "Let's go check the cemetary." Well, I know the person who made that comment, and he's a good man. He's a volunteer police officer and a friend of mine. Anything is possible, but I hardly believe for a moment that he should be a suspect. Constantine is a really small town, they had checked everywhere else, and it's quite realistic to think maybe she got lost in there (the cemetary is huge). My friend is apparently a suspect, and he's had to take a number of polygraph tests for the FBI. This just shows me that the detectives investigating this thing are as clueless as one would expect.

It's a tragic loss...but I don't think everyone is doing their job as well as they could. Why haven't any fingerprints been lifted off the bike? Why hasn't there been any DNA found on Jodi's body? Not necissarily seman, but what about lose strands of hair? Something. The fact that everyone is just baffled by the entire incident just doesn't add up, in my opinion.

-Adam from Constantine

[MamaMari]

I'm sorry, but this child knew her killer. This is all too strange. And so so sad.

[KTScarlettOkity]

Indeed, per a 2006 study done by the Depart of Justice regarding child homicide, there is equal chance for this to have been done by someone she knew vs. a stranger.

http://www.atg.wa.gov/uploadedFiles/Another/Supporting_Law_Enforcement/Homicide_Investigation_Tracking_System_(HITS)/Child_Abduction_Murder_Research/CMIIReport-Exec-Summary.pdf
(Executive Summary)

"With more killers identified we find that the relationships between them and their victims changes from strangers to an almost equal likelihood of being friends/acquaintances"

http://www.atg.wa.gov/uploadedFiles/Another/Supporting_Law_Enforcement/Homicide_Investigation_Tracking_System_(HITS)/Child_Abduction_Murder_Research/CMIIPDF.pdf
(Full study)

If you read the victim profile on this study, it is sickeningly eerie to Jodi.

And as the other Constantine folks have stated, the cemetery is actually well traveled if you look at the map previously posted there are 2 roads that vehicular traffic regularly uses to cut through the cemetery as a short cut (connecting Centreville Rd. w/ Florence Rd.) So yes, I would agree that it was probably a "busier" cemetery than most small town cemeterys because the roads through the cemetery connected 2 well traveled roads. I, personally, do not know nor have I had someone who knew her tell me that she regularly road through the cemetery or not so I cannot speak to that.

But we do know she was last seen headed the opposite way of the cemetery and her home towards Washington (AKA US 131).

All that said, I too want to see this person whoever it may be, be brought to justice as swiftly as possible. This person must pay for this horrible crime.

[Pak31]

I went to high school in Constantine and my parents live right next door to the cemetary where Jodi was found. It doesn't surprise me at all that the entire town is paranoid and on edge (as well they should be after such a terrible happening). But I've always felt like rumors get spread way to fast in small towns, and Constantine is no exception.

From what knowledge I gather, Jodi lived behind the cemetary, and it was normal for her to be walking through there quite often. Also, the cemetary is usually a very busy place. It's not only the largest in the area, it's the only major cemetary in Constantine. Therefore, it's usually well-trafficked. I saw someone reply something having to do with the comment "Let's go check the cemetary." Well, I know the person who made that comment, and he's a good man. He's a volunteer police officer and a friend of mine. Anything is possible, but I hardly believe for a moment that he should be a suspect. Constantine is a really small town, they had checked everywhere else, and it's quite realistic to think maybe she got lost in there (the cemetary is huge). My friend is apparently a suspect, and he's had to take a number of polygraph tests for the FBI. This just shows me that the detectives investigating this thing are as clueless as one would expect.

It's a tragic loss...but I don't think everyone is doing their job as well as they could. Why haven't any fingerprints been lifted off the bike? Why hasn't there been any DNA found on Jodi's body? Not necissarily seman, but what about lose strands of hair? Something. The fact that everyone is just baffled by the entire incident just doesn't add up, in my opinion.

-Adam from Constantine

Adam, what I have read many times from the news reports is that the cemetery was near her home but that it wasn't near the route she usually took to go home. They said for her to go near the cemetery would have been out of the way. Also, according to her mother, Jodi didn't like the cemetery and neither did her friends. So I am confused. I gathered that the cemetery was an odd location for her to be found.
Also, how do you know what evidence the police has? I ask in all seriousness because I don't think that the public would know one way or another if they have lifted fingerprints off the bike unless they tell us right?? A polygraph is a good tool, if your friend is innocent then taking a poly is a good way to clear him. If he had to take several, that to me seems like he may have failed them or something wasn't right with the test. I don't think that detectives are clueless. They may have more info than we are led to believe. Unless we are there working with the department, how can we truly know what kind of job they are doing?? I find it odd that many have said there were attempted abductions in the area, Jodi was found dead and now they say that there is no need to worry about a killer on the loose. Why, is it because they have an idea of what happened? It's a strange case indeed.

[LatrobeGirl]

2 things are bothering me:

#1, the bike. It seems doubtful to me that Jodi was killed at the spot where she was found. Therefore, why did the killer bring the bike along? To make it LOOK like she was killed while out riding her bike.

#2, her mother's interview:

"I knew right away she was dead". That statement is so bizarre, it doesn't even need clarifying."She looked like she was sleeping," Carver said. "Her eyes were closed, her mouth was closed -- she was beautiful." Another bizarre statement. But someone who knew and cared about Jodi would have made efforts to make her look peaceful in death.

The bike and these statements keep running around in my head....
I'm NOT saying the mom killed her.....but I have to wonder if she doesn't know who did.

[KTScarlettOkity]

#1, the bike. It seems doubtful to me that Jodi was killed at the spot where she was found. Therefore, why did the killer bring the bike along? To make it LOOK like she was killed while out riding her bike.

Possibly, or for maybe her killer made her think she was getting a ride home and so naturally her bike was put in the vehicle when she got in. Then it was dumped with her body so it wouldn't be found in the killer's possession. (I am ONLY speculating...venturing a guess to a possible scenario.)

#2, her mother's interview:

Yes, the interview does indeed make one wonder. Did Valerie already know she was dead before she got to the cemetery? Did she know the killer? Or is she just an unfortunate woman? I really REALLY hope we get the answers to those questions soon.

[KTScarlettOkity]

This sort of reminds me of the Amber Hagerman case. (Origin of Amber Alerts.) Although of course Ambers bike was left at the site of abduction.

[KTScarlettOkity]

http://www.mlive.com/newsflash/michigan/index.ssf?/base/news-48/1196274841142000.xml&storylist=newsmichigan

Constantine police continue to search for child's killer
11/28/2007, 1:27 p.m. EST
The Associated Press

CONSTANTINE, Mich. (AP) — Nearly three weeks after an 11-year-old girl's body was found in a cemetery, the police chief says he is confident an arrest will be made in the case.

Jodi Parrack, a fifth-grader at Riverside Elementary School, last was seen alive riding her bicycle in the southwestern Michigan village of Constantine after leaving a friend's house around 4:45 p.m. on Nov. 8, said police Chief Mark Honeysett.

The child's mother, Valerie Carver, reported the girl missing around 7 p.m. after Jodi failed to return home. Carver was with friends searching for her daughter when they discovered the girl's body in the Constantine Township Cemetery around 10:30 p.m. Her bike was found nearby.

"We've gotten some tips lately that have been pretty intriguing ... and make me more optimistic," the chief told the Kalamazoo Gazette for a story published Wednesday. "I think (the killing) involves someone locally here, so for that reason I'm confident we'll find out who and maybe why. I don't believe it was just someone passing through who picked her out."

A team of 40 to 50 investigators from the FBI and local law enforcement have amassed nearly 450 tips, which they are continuing to prioritize and look into, Honeysett said.

"We're hoping that if anyone saw her after 4:45, they may have seen her with the person who killed her or who was with her when she died," he said. "I still firmly believe that someone in town did see her or has information that they don't think is important and haven't passed it along to us."


****

BOLD was added by me.

[KTScarlettOkity]

http://www.wsbt.com/news/local/11887861.html

Police Remain Tight-Lipped About Parrack Investigation, Media Asked to Scale Back
by Sarah Rice (srice@wsbt.com)

St. Joseph County Sheriff's Department in Constantine

The body of 11-year-old Jodi Parrack was found in a cemetery in St. Joseph County, Mich. Thursday, Nov. 8, 2007. The girl's death has been ruled a homicide. The St. Joseph County (Mich.) Prosecutor's Office asked the media to scale back their coverage of the investigation.(WSBT photo)
By Beth Boehne

Story Created: Nov 28, 2007 at 12:20 PM EST

Story Updated: Nov 28, 2007 at 5:57 PM EST

(WSBT) The Constantine community is growing frustrated as police continue to search for Jodi Parrack's killer.
Multimedia

The 11-year-old girl was found dead nearly three weeks ago in a Constantine Township Cemetery.

Police are still offering little information about Jodi's death. And as far as the prosecutor's office is concerned, it will stay that way.

WSBT News received a news release Wednesday from the assistant prosecutor asking the media to scale back coverage because they say it's hurting the investigation.

The statement reads, in part:

"We have reached the stage in the investigation where media publicity with regard to specifics of the investigation is no longer desirable. The lack of publicity is no indication of lack of energy or reduced devotion of resources to finding the perpetrator of this crime."

To read the entire statement, click on the link in the Related Content box.

But some parents in the community say less information is the last thing they want to hear.

"We're looking for answers. You're all of a sudden not hearing anything,” said Constantine resident Rachelle Benson.

And for parents like Jen Fischer ... not knowing what happened to Jodi Parrack continues to keep their kids awake at night.

"They're afraid to go to sleep,” Fischer said. “And we can put them to bed, and they come right back out, ‘I'm scared, I’m scared.’"

"My nieces, great-nieces will not sleep in their own room. My great-nephew will not sleep in his room,” said Rachelle Benson. “They won't go in the basement, nothing."

Some people say regular updates from police have been reassuring.

“Just to let people know that it's not over. They're still looking but there's no new or there is something new. It would just be nice to know something," said Fischer.

But those police updates have stopped. The prosecutor's office is now asking investigators not to talk to the media. Prosecutors say the way media outlets go about covering the story is hurting their investigation.

"And when it gets to the point that they're interviewing witnesses and interviewing potential suspects and making it difficult for us to do that, they're causing a problem," said St. Joseph County Assistant Prosecutor Holly Curtis.

To listen to statements made by Holly Curtis in a phone interview with WSBT Radio, click on the link in the Related Content box.

People say they hope the truth comes out soon, laying rumors to rest and ultimately giving this small, tight-knit community the closure they want and need.

"Let her rest, let the family rest and friends ... be able to say goodbye instead of dragging this out," said Benson.

One of those rumors going around is that people are having their DNA tested. We asked the prosecutor's office about this and they refused to comment.

Investigators still have not named or ruled out any suspects in Jodi Parrack's death.

They continue to urge anyone who may have seen her between 4:45 – 10:30 p.m. on the night she disappeared to contact them immediately. Call the Constantine Police Department at (269) 435-4355 or the St. Joseph County (Mich.) Central Dispatch at (269) 467-4195.

***

BOLD added by me.

[KTScarlettOkity]

http://www.fox28.com/News/index.php?ID=28903

All is Quiet in Constantine

Jodi Parrack's body was found in a Constantine Cemetery back on November 8th, and still there are no arrests in connection to her murder.

Wednesday, the St. Joseph County, Michigan Prosecutors office released a statement updating the status of their investigation.

They say significant progress has been made in their investigation, and Constantine Police Chief Mark Honeysett says he's confident an arrest will be made.

Meanwhile, the streets of Constantine remain quiet. While many holiday decorations are up, the town's spirit is not. At the Constantine Township Cemetery, a memorial under the tree where Jodi was found continues to grow. Teddy bears, flowers, candles and letters all expressing the pain and sorrow the town is going through.

Many residents are still on high alert, taking extra precautions with their own children. But what's changed, is that all the talk has died down.

"There's not people talking about it as much as it was in the beginning and I think police are glad that is happening, because now they can get down to the bottom of the investigation. We're confident they're going to take care of it, especially with the FBI helping," says Constantine resident Cindy Shepherd.

FOX 28 did speak with members of Jodi's family. They say they don't feel as optimistic as the authorities do. They say they've heard very little, and are concerned the case isn't moving quickly enough.

[LatrobeGirl]

http://www.fox28.com/News/index.php?ID=28903

"There's not people talking about it as much as it was in the beginning and I think police are glad that is happening, because now they can get down to the bottom of the investigation. We're confident they're going to take care of it, especially with the FBI helping," says Constantine resident Cindy Shepherd.

FOX 28 did speak with members of Jodi's family. They say they don't feel as optimistic as the authorities do. They say they've heard very little, and are concerned the case isn't moving quickly enough.

Somehow I missed it that the FBI was involved.....:shrug: does anyone know why? I thought they usually only got involved when a child was transported over state lines, things like that....

Is that significant, or am I just reading too much into it?

[KTScarlettOkity]

Somehow I missed it that the FBI was involved.....:shrug: does anyone know why? I thought they usually only got involved when a child was transported over state lines, things like that....

Is that significant, or am I just reading too much into it?

The FBI has been involved since the first day of the investigation.

[Pak31]

2 things are bothering me:

#1, the bike. It seems doubtful to me that Jodi was killed at the spot where she was found. Therefore, why did the killer bring the bike along? To make it LOOK like she was killed while out riding her bike.

#2, her mother's interview:

"I knew right away she was dead". That statement is so bizarre, it doesn't even need clarifying."She looked like she was sleeping," Carver said. "Her eyes were closed, her mouth was closed -- she was beautiful." Another bizarre statement. But someone who knew and cared about Jodi would have made efforts to make her look peaceful in death.

The bike and these statements keep running around in my head....
I'm NOT saying the mom killed her.....but I have to wonder if she doesn't know who did.

I just have this gut feeling that the police already know who did this crime. I know as parents in the area, they must be so uncomfortable because they don't have the all's clear, so to speak. But, the last thing that the police need is anyone or anything to hamper their investigation. I think a lot of times when a case quiets down like this it means that the cops are on to something. They already have told the town that they should not fear that a killer is on the loose and to watch your children. It sounds like an arrest may come soon, according to the two articles KT posted.
To Latrobegirl, I think that you have a great sense of detail!! The bike is a huge indication of who the perpetrator may have been. Some random guy isn't going to care one bit about her bike, he just wants the child and quick. Unless she was lured to the cemetery and killed there, but that seems odd. Otherwise the whole death scene may have been staged. I guess anything is possible. I also find it odd about the mother's statements/actions too. I know though that when I can't find my child for a few minutes or whatever, I panic and I think the worst, but I don't think that at the exact minute that she was considered late would I start to fear that my child was dead. Plus the mother specifically stated that her daughter feared that cemetery. Why would she think her daughter was there, unless someone else mentioned it, not sure how that transpired. One last thing for me, and I don't live in Constantine, but if my daughter is at a friends house and it's a bit of a distance, I don't tell her she needs to be home by a certain time and then expect her to arrive home. I tell her the time, then she has to let me know when she is on her way and if it's too far I will come get her or the mother of the home she is at will make sure that my child gets home safely. We live in a rather normal area, but I trust no one. That being said, the mom told the cops that her daughter was ALWAYS home when she was told to be home so why did the mom wait so long to report her missing?? Was it just because she was using that hour and a half to look for her thinking it was innocent? Or something else? You just can't trust an 11 year old kid to be out alone, (they are not 100% responsible yet & can get distracted), no matter where you live. I am not implying anything here, I just think parents/adults need to keep good eyes on their loved ones. This town I am sure, will do this from now on. Sad but true.

[Bluefox]

Cops are investigating any and all leads on the case, including the fact that in the small town there are 26 registered sex offenders.

quote from: http://www.amw.com/fugitives/case.cfm?id=50768

26 in one small town, it beggars belief!! Well, the media stopped asking about it, does anyone know what's going on at all?

[wildyarrow]

I posted this in the ctv forums but thought I should post it here too,in case some of you don't go over there....

http://www.sturgisjournal.com/articles/2007/12/09/news/doc475c96acab7bf972707236.txt

I found several points very telling,especially the great grandmother saying that she felt Jodi would be better off with her dad. I also thought it interesting that the place they lived before moving into the house they were in when Jodi was murdered was an apartment that overlooked that cemetary.

I hope the police have talked to this poor lady,she may have some interesting things to tell them with regards to Jodi's mother....

God Bless her heart,she's far more grief stricken than even Jodi's own mother. IMO.

[Pak31]

Thanks for posting that article, wildyarrow. It was an interesting read. I do feel very sad for the great-grandmother, she did seem to express more sorrow than Jodi's own mother did. Although we all grieve in different ways, it was more emotional from her than from her mother. The other thing that struck me was about her(Grt grandma) losing contact with Jodi and her mom after they moved out. Did they not have a good relationship??? I feel bad for Jodi, having parents split up, moving so much, etc. but she seemed to be a happy girl for going thru all of that in her young life. It's a very sad situation. I hope something happens soon, I haven't heard any new updates lately.

[Mishell1383]

Thanks for posting that article, wildyarrow. It was an interesting read. I do feel very sad for the great-grandmother, she did seem to express more sorrow than Jodi's own mother did. Although we all grieve in different ways, it was more emotional from her than from her mother. The other thing that struck me was about her(Grt grandma) losing contact with Jodi and her mom after they moved out. Did they not have a good relationship??? I feel bad for Jodi, having parents split up, moving so much, etc. but she seemed to be a happy girl for going thru all of that in her young life. It's a very sad situation. I hope something happens soon, I haven't heard any new updates lately.
do we even know acause of death yet??

:rose: Jodi

[KTScarlettOkity]

do we even know acause of death yet??

:rose: Jodi

No cause of death has been released.

[Mishell1383]

No cause of death has been released.
STILL!!?? I hope they have one and are just keeping it secret as not to release to many details :shrug:

[Pak31]

STILL!!?? I hope they have one and are just keeping it secret as not to release to many details :shrug:

I am wondering why they have not released the cause. I think they must know how she was killed or at least how she wasn't killed. It may have something to do with someone they suspect or something. I don't know it just seems odd. If they think it is a pedophile, transient or someone like that why is everything so hush hush?? What would releasing the cause of death do that would be harmful or bad? Would it scare the neighborhood? Would it point fingers at someone in particular? Can't imagine that it would. I just hope it's solved soon.

[wildyarrow]

I noticed they said the cause of death was "pending" so I'm assuming they're waiting for toxocology reports to come back.

So many weird things about this case that I don't know what to think.

One thing that keeps popping to mind is that bike. Not only did the killer transport it with her but had apparently taken the care to prop it up against a tombstone rather than just dropping it on the ground. I also thought I'd read the bike wasn't hers,it belonged to the friend she'd been visiting. Wonder if something could have happened at the friends house and they were the ones that staged it. Aren't they the ones that last saw her alive?

I just can't believe a stranger would be able to grab her and not leave any visible signs of struggle or defensive wounds.

[Pak31]

You bring up some really good points. I was not aware of toxicology reports, so that is a possibility. I guess with some cases you get a little more info, like if the body seemed staged, what trauma was there to the body, etc. etc. I guess the police may know this, but so far we don't, was she killed there at that spot or was she moved there?? Her mother stressed that her daughter hated that cemetery, that is why I found it ironic that she was found there. It could all mean nothing or something. I said this before but if it was a random killing wouldn't they be putting more info out there for people to help?? Or do they know who it is and are laying low til they get all the info they need? I woul think they would have all that by now. I am so confused with this case.

[Pak31]

Just wanted to add, an article I just read says she was fully clothed when found with no gun shot wound, no signs of strangulation, no bruises. So do we think it was some type of drug? What other means could have killed her? It's odd isn't it?

[Mishell1383]

Just wanted to add, an article I just read says she was fully clothed when found with no gun shot wound, no signs of strangulation, no bruises. So do we think it was some type of drug? What other means could have killed her? It's odd isn't it?
Extremely. Would there be signs if she was drugged than smothered? If she was drugged there would be no defense wounds or claw marks. This is all just so strange for me, and she was so young and innocent. She deserves justice.

[Pak31]

Extremely. Would there be signs if she was drugged than smothered? If she was drugged there would be no defense wounds or claw marks. This is all just so strange for me, and she was so young and innocent. She deserves justice.


I agree. I think justice will come for her. I forgot about smothering. I guess no signs of strangulation meant at her neck?? My curiosity has me wondering if they know her time of death. I am curious as to how much time that the kidnapper had her for. I am just trying to figure out if it makes sense that she was kidnapped. If there would have been enough time etc. It just seems like it happened so quick. But I guess if there was someone waiting for her it could have happened fairly fast. I mean she was found in her own neighborhood not far from home. Did the person who had her know she lived around that area? Do kidnappers usually take someone and stick around in the same area or do they get out of there? Her death almost seemed staged, and would a kidnapper who wants to do what they do, be so careful? I would think they'd grab her, not care about the bike. I guess there are so many missing puzzle peices that I am way too confused. But we do know that she didn't deserve to die.

[constantinemom]

Ive been following this case from the beginning.. I live in the next town and my daughter who i raised in Constantine still lives there.. Its been so sad..My daughter lives across form the police station and at first news crews and people going in and out and now its quiet. before driving threw town when school was at the end of day you would see kids walking home smiling with friends and now..none.. parents stand outside school waiting..I never let me daughter walk around town..with us 131 going strait threw the middle of town..alot of strangers go threw town..ALOT very busy road.. Makes you really think it was someone from town..if someone from 131 picked her up..they would not of hung around town, and drop her off outside her home. I have so many questions and they is no answers..at first rumors were running crazy..
she was hung.
she was tied up
she was stabbed
she was drugged..the house she was playing at Has so many people living there..people going in and out.. (my daughters friend lives behind house)
did she try drugs and had a bad reaction..would that be considered homicide because of her age..

But the police said it was homicide the day she died they saw something
the only clue was