Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Happy Holiday's from the Marshall Family

Cliff and Anita Marshall would like to express their appreciation and gratitude to all our friends, supporters, and the media over this holiday season. We wish you all a safe, happy, healthy, and joyful holiday.
We especially would like to thank Chief Jim Schwartz of the Marshall Police Department, Assistant Michigan Attorney General David Tanay, Assistant Michigan Attorney General Dennis Pheney, Calhoun County Prosecutor Susan K. Mladenoff, Assistant Prosecutor Dan Buscher, D/Sgt Scott McDonald, and D/Sgt. Mike Scott of the Michigan State Police along with all the members of their investigative team. We know you are working full time to solve the disappearance and murder of their daughter, Mary Denise Lands and doing everything possible to close this case.
Unfortunately, this is now the 6th holiday season that the Marshall's have not known the fate of their daughter. December 12, 2009 will mark 5 years and 9 months since Mary's former fiance, Christopher Luke Pratt claimed that she walked away from their Waldon Pond Apartment. 44 hours later he called the Marshall's in California to ask if Mary was there?
Inmate Christopher Luke Pratt has now been in prison for 2 1/2 years as a result of his convictions for crimes of felony domestic violence against a more recent girl-friend. As you all know, he was sentenced in January 2008 to 5-15 years and his first opportunity for parole will be in February 2012.
Michigan Department of Corrections- Inmate Christopher Luke Pratt, # 673261 http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261
Each year I publish this photograph of Inmate Pratt holding his favorite Christmas stocking. It is a perfect example of his narcissistic and sociopathic personality. As he now sits in the St. Louis Correctional Facility, at Level IV he claims to family that he has found God and writes letters to many people with rambling bible scripture. This is obviously all part of a plan to lead on the Parole Board that he has changed and been rehabilitated. This evil person can never be rehabilitated, and if he is paroled will commit more crimes and continue to place our community and its citizens at risk. Let's fill up Inmate Pratt's stocking with one thousand letters to the State of Michigan demanding that he be kept in prison. If he truly has found God then perhaps he will tell law enforcement officials where Mary can be recovered? Only then will he begin to genuinely display remorse, empathy and contrition for his crimes. We continue to urge decent Pratt family members and acquaintances to come forward and provide that final piece of the puzzle. Some of you indeed can provide those answers. For those in the Pratt family who are suffering from recent tragedy, we wish you comfort and peace.
With or without the help of Inmate Pratt we will bring Mary home and our efforts, and those of law enforcement will not cease until she is recovered and laid to rest.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all.

Friday, November 13, 2009

A Plea from Cliff & Anita, after 5 years, 8 months, and 1 day











The Marshall have asked that previously posted idiotic, juvenile, false, pathetic, and immature comments please cease. This site is related to the March 12th, 2004 disappearance of their daughter, Mary Denise Lands, and how we can work together to bring her home. These inane ramblings do not help in our objectives. Yes, we can moderate the site and delete these infectious remarks, but the Marshall's wish people to see just how low, dirty and despicable some can be in their comments. For every one of you who contributes these vile remarks we have one hundred close supporters who have been faithfully with us since this tragedy unfolded.

I am cognizant that many people do not like me, and that is their opinion. However, these same people should stop and think what it would be like in their life if they woke up this morning and found a loved one missing or murdered? No one, including myself, can know what it is to walk in the footsteps of Cliff & Anita Marshall. No one can understand and feel the pain they have endured for the last 5 years, 8 months, and 1 day. Think about that pain before you write the hate-speak you seem to enjoy so much. We will not be deleting it, as we want the world to see what some twisted minds are capable of writing. We hope our other friends will continue to contribute in a positive manner with the goal to bring Mary home to her final resting place. As I have previously mentioned, you know my address and telephone numbers, if you ever wish to speak with me, please give me a call. Perhaps I can learn more on why you have so much hatred bottled up inside?

On a more positive note, Chief Jim Schwartz of the Marshall Police Department has been at the helm of his agency now for over two months. He appears to be an outstanding law enforcement professional who is dedicated to solving Mary's case. For the first time, Cliff, Anita, and I plan to meet with him this morning for a discussion about Mary's investigation. You may recall, over 3 years ago we met with the new city manager, Chris Olson. He immediately launched into a bizarre tirade and informed Anita Marshall that "we were part of the problem, not part of the solution." She abruptly left the meeting never to return again to talk with city officials. Today, Anita's tough Portuguese temperament has mellowed and she looks forward to meeting the new chief. That callous and obstructionist city manager is long gone, and we now know there is a positive professional attitude within the Marshall Police Department. Chief Schwartz, his team of diligent investigators, and the Prosecutor's Office are committed to bringing to justice the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands. Cliff & Anita know that this will occur, and we also know that through the efforts of law enforcement and information from the public we will soon bring our Mary home.


Update- November 14, 2009- Cliff, Anita, and I were extremely impressed with the honest, sincere, and genuine remarks of Chief Schwartz from our meeting on Friday. He indeed, is an outstanding police professional who will not only resolve the Mary Lands investigation, but also will restore respect and honor to his agency. Anita Marshall does not smile often enough, but she truly was pleased and beaming by the comments of Marshall's new "Top Cop". Cliff stated that he could look into this man's eyes and tell he was truly committed to what he had to say to the family. This is the hope that we have been waiting for after 5 years, 8 months, and 2 days since this tragedy unfolded.
As the Chief mentioned, his discussion focused on how we are going to address the situation at hand currently, and the Marshall Police Department’s ambitions for the future. He assured the Marshall's that his door will always be open to anyone who wishes to bring something to his attention. He also stated that he is looking forward to further discussions related to Mary's case in the near future.
The citizens of Marshall should be on notice. Although this "Top Cop" is not a sheriff, the analogy is still quite fitting and accurate. "There's a new sheriff in Marshall," and he will not stand for incompetence and laziness. He will be demanding the ultimate in professionalism from the members of his agency as they serve the citizens of Marshall. This man is no phony or token head of the Marshall Police Department. He is Chief Jim Schwartz, and he will get the job done.

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Happy Birthday, Mary Denise Lands

On September 3, 2009 our beloved Mary Denise Lands would have been at home with family happily celebrating her 45th birthday. She was taken from us after a tragic and abusive domestic violence relationship with her fiance, Christopher Luke Pratt. As most of you now know, Inmate Pratt is serving a 5-15 year sentence in the custody of the Michigan Department of Corrections for assault and domestic violence convictions upon another more recent girl-friend. http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261
He is now incarcerated in Level IV at St. Louis Correctional Facility and is eligible for parole in February 2012. He has not been charged in any crimes related to Mary's disappearance.

A new top cop has now been appointed in Marshall to lead the investigation. Chief Jim Schwartz takes over on September 8th and plans to work closely with the Michigan Attorney General, Michigan State Police, and the Calhoun County Prosecutor's Office to bring to justice the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands. Chief Schwartz was a homicide investigator and Commander of the Collier County Sheriff's Office, Crime Scene Bureau, in Florida. He is an educated police professional who knows how to solve crime. As we have done in the past, we will note the contact information for law enforcement officials. If you have any information pertaining to Mary's case you are urged to call. Help Cliff & Anita Marshall bring their daughter home.


D/Sgt. Scott McDonald, Marshall Police Department, 269.781.2596

D/Sgt. Mike Scott, Michigan State Police, White Pigeon Post, 269.483.7612

D/Sgt. Mike Salmen, Michigan State Police, Battle Creek Post, 269.968.6115

Calhoun County Prosecutor's Office, Battle Creek, 269.969.6980

or you may also contact;

Jim Carlin, Justinian Investigative Services, Battle Creek, 269.963.7068

"Please Help Us, Bring Mary Home"

For those who may not have viewed or listened to our popular YouTube video from Mary's 4th Anniversary Vigil (March 2008), we have posted a new link; "Oh Mary, Don't You Weep" by Jersey boy, the Boss Springsteen

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZdLwAGxu9M

You might like to take another few minutes to listen to Country Gentlemen- "Bringing Mary Home." Cliff & Anita truly loved it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQ0_82boXUM

Together we will bring her home!

Jim Carlin, JustinianLaw@sbcglobal.net

Monday, August 17, 2009

James Schwartz named as new Marshall police chief

Update- August 17, 2009- Adrian, Michigan Deputy Police Chief James Schwartz has just been named the new police chief in Marshall. We welcome him to the community and hope one of his paramount objectives will be to solve the Mary Lands case. Today, Mary has now been missing for five years, five months, and five days. The Marshall family looks forward to sitting down and talking with the new chief about their daughter's case.
Acting Chief Scott McDonald did an outstanding job in the interim not only on Mary's case, but in all his duties as interim chief. We know he and his investigative team will actively work to close the case and bring to justice the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands.
Congratulations, Chief Schwartz.

Battle Creek Enquirer- After more than 18 months without one, Marshall will have a police chief next month. Adrian's Deputy Police Chief James Schwartz accepted the position shortly after 3 p.m. Monday, Interim City Manager Tom Tarkiewicz said, pending background checks. His salary will be $67,000, plus benefits, and Tarkiewicz expects him to start Sept. 8.

The city narrowed its search to two finalists last week: Schwartz and Lt. Michael Sherzer of the Battle Creek Police Department. The position has been open since January 2008, after Public Safety Director Mike Olson was placed on administrative leave for violating city policies. Since then, Det. Sgt. Scott McDonald has served as acting police chief. Marshall Human Resources Coordinator Tracy Hall said five of the 47 applicants were called in for interviews with a panel consisting of Hall, Tarkiewicz, Calhoun County Sheriff Al Byam and Coldwater Public Safety Director Brett Pehrson, who served as deputy chief in Marshall prior to taking the Coldwater job.
A new Marshall police chief could be hired this week, as the city has narrowed its search to two finalists: Det. Michael Sherzer of the Battle Creek Police Department and Adrian Deputy Chief James Schwartz.
The position has been open since January 2008, after Public Safety Director Mike Olson was placed on administrative leave for violating city policies. Since then, Det. Sgt. Scott McDonald has served as acting police chief.
Marshall Human Resources Coordinator Tracy Hall said five of the 47 applicants were called in for interviews with a panel consisting of Hall, Interim City Manager Tom Tarkiewicz, Calhoun County Sheriff Al Byam and Coldwater Public Safety Director Brett Pehrson, who served as deputy chief in Marshall prior to taking the Coldwater job. The panel called back Sherzer and Schwartz for second interviews last week.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Latest FOIA request on Christopher Luke Pratt, Inmate # 673261

The latest Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request on Christopher Luke Pratt, Inmate # 673261 from the Michigan Department of Corrections is now available for viewing. He is presently incarcerated as a Level IV prisoner at Thumb Correctional Facility in Gratiot County, St. Louis, Michigan. The FOIA materials are viewable on the "Links to Mary" to the right and are in PDF format. It is a 29 MB file and may take a few minutes to download but can be read.

As we have mentioned in the past, Inmate Pratt is eligible for release in February 2012 on his 5-15 year felony convictions and could be scheduled for a parole hearing in late 2011. It is never to early for any citizen to contact MDOC and ask to be notified on transfers and parole hearings for Inmate Pratt. Anyone has the opportunity to write to the Parole Board and express your opinion in this matter. He needs to remain in jail.
In June, the Michigan Court of Appeals affirmed his convictions in a Calhoun County Circuit Court. This inmate is a vicious and violent sociopathic criminal and a severe threat to society and his previous victims. He deserves to remain in prison until the expiration of his sentence in 2022. He is a suspect in the open homicide investigation of his former fiancee, Mary Denise Lands.

MDOC OTIS Record on Inmate Christopher Luke Pratt
http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261

Monday, July 13, 2009

Mary Denise Lands, the search in Michigan continues...

It has now been 5 years and 4 months since Mary allegedly walked away from her Waldon Pond Apartment in Marshall, Michigan. Christopher Luke Pratt, Mary’s fiancĂ© at the time has been in prison for over 2 years on a violent assault of a more recent girl-friend, Norrene Parker, and is serving 5-15 years on those felonies. Recently the Michigan Court of Appeals turned down his appeals. He may be eligible for release in February 2012. Although Inmate Pratt is a suspect in Mary’s disappearance and murder he has not yet been charged.

The search for Mary continues and during the week of June 22-26, 2009 Carren Corcoran of Canine Search Solutions in Wisconsin came to Michigan at the request of the TrackMissing Foundation to examine water and land locations in an attempt to locate Mary. Accompanying her was Karen Kraemer of the Broken Wings Network. Carren’s dog is a certified cadaver animal utilized by law enforcement agencies across the country.

Cadaver dogs are trained to alert in various different methods. The alert by Carren’s dog is indicated by the animal sitting down either in a boat or in the water. Alerts were documented during this search and they are being followed up on to ascertain the origins.
YouTube Video- Search for Mary- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K592kGX40Bg

Michigan Department of Corrections online record of Inmate Christopher Luke Pratt, #673261. He is now incarcerated at St. Louis Correctional Facility as a Level IV prisoner.
http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261

Another You Tube Video- Christopher Luke Pratt- Suspect, Disappearance and Murder of Mary Denise Lands-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ArKvNH-hIoM

Take a good look at this person! Do you want this violent criminal offender released back into our community? Do your part to help find Mary. Take a bite out of crime and call in your tip.
We will keep you posted on progress.

Friday, June 12, 2009

Michigan Court of Appeals Affirms all convictions of Christopher Luke Pratt

Battle Creek Enquirer- 06/13/09

BREAKING NEWS- The Michigan Court of Appeals in a 9-page decision affirmed all the charges and the convictions of Christopher Luke Pratt. The full decision may be read at the Michigan COA website; http://coa.courts.mi.gov/documents/OPINIONS/FINAL/COA/20090611_C284299_48_284299.OPN.PDF
The decision at the end read; In our view, the trial court did not abuse its discretion in considering the entire course of conduct beginning before and continuing through the unlawful imprisonment.
The trial court considered the entire course of events during the 15 or 20 minute incident, during which defendant, who was over six feet tall and weighed approximately 300 pounds, demanded that the victim, who was five feet, two inches tall and weighed just over 100 pounds, give him the cordless telephone; slammed the telephone on the ground, telling her that she would never discover who he was talking to; informed her that he cheated on her and laughed; grabbed her in a bear hug, lifting her feet from the ground, and squeezed her so hard that he cut her finger on her ring; cursed at her and used derogatory names; pulled down a baker’s rack full of items that scattered near the victim; ripped the telephone cord out of the wall when the victim ran to the telephone and tried to use it; and pushed the microwave oven off of the kitchen counter near her feet. When the victim then attempted to run out of the house, defendant grabbed her keys, threw them outside, blocked the doorway and restrained her. He then left in his truck when she told her son to call the police.

The threatening, anxiety-producing conduct continued throughout the commission of all the crimes, including the unlawful imprisonment. Under the facts of this case, the fear and anxiety during the short time of the unlawful imprisonment could not be separated from the incident. In the present case, the trial court did not abuse its discretion in determining that defendant’s conduct was designed to substantially increase the fear and anxiety the victim suffered during the unlawful imprisonment.
Affirmed.


/s/ Karen M. Fort Hood
/s/ Mark J. Cavanagh
/s/ Kirsten Frank Kelly


MDOC Information, Inmate # 673261-Christopher Luke Pratt
http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Michigan Court of Appeals considers Pratt convictions

June 2, 2009- People of the State of Michigan v. Christopher Luke Pratt was the first case called this morning at 10:00 A.M. in the Hall of Justice, Michigan Court of Appeals. The 3 judge panel included Judge Karen M Fort Hood, PJ, Judge Mark J Cavanagh and Judge Kirsten Frank Kelly, JJ. Presiding Judge Fort made an opening statement that all the judges were very familiar with each of the cases being called and she asked that the attorneys be brief and to the point. Present in the room were approximately 12 other attorneys for various cases, and several spectators. About 10 minutes before court commenced Jeff Pratt and his mother, Louise Pratt showed up. Jeff was dressed more for a night of drinking at his Moose Lodge than for what would be appropriate attire for such an esteemed judicial proceeding.
A representative from the Calhoun County Prosecutor’s Office was present however the actual oral argument was conducted by a special prosecutor from Kent County, Timothy K. McMorrow. He is chief appellate attorney for the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office. No attorney was present on behalf of Chris Pratt and presumably written arguments had already been submitted to the court. Inmate Pratt also was not present for the hearing.
The Pratt matter took exactly 2 minutes and the presiding judge then called the next case.
After the hearing was closed Jeff Pratt appeared visibly upset, dismayed and perplexed and started a conversation with Mr. McMorrow. He did not realize he was speaking to the prosecutor and not his brother’s attorney. He asked, What happens now? Jeff did not appear to be in a very happy mood when he left the building.
In my opinion, it will be approximately a month before Inmate Christopher Luke Pratt will be sitting in his Level IV cell at St. Louis Correctional Facility and learn that all his convictions were affirmed by the Michigan Court of Appeals. You may follow the appellate process online- http://coa.courts.mi.gov/resources/asp/viewdocket.asp?casenumber=284299&fparties=&inqtype=public&yr=0

At the entrance of the massive Michigan Hall of Justice there are four words etched in marble; Freedom, Truth, Equality and Justice. These concepts, the foundations of our constitution, invite reflection by all who enter. Let it be known that each member of the Pratt kin should also reflect. They should reflect on the fact that Christopher Luke Pratt, now Inmate Pratt #673261 was properly and appropriately convicted for violent felony crimes in Calhoun County against a former girl friend. He is a criminal perpetrator of domestic violence who enjoys battering women. He battered his first wife, he battered Mary Denise Lands, and he battered a more recent girl-friend. He is not going to batter anyone else for 15 years. http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261
The Pratt family should now be thinking about the crimes committed against Mary Denise Lands. Their family can help bring Mary home and contribute to some type of closure for all involved in this horrific tragedy. Sooner or later it is going to happen. Jeff Pratt and others would be wise to convince their family member to do the right thing. The Marshall family is not going to go away until they can bring their daughter home to her final resting place. You'll see us at vigils, events, court hearings and every single parole hearing for Inmate Pratt until 2022. We will vehemently oppose any parole for your family member. Instead of all your denials that Inmate Pratt had anything to do with Mary's disappearance and murder you should put more effort into having someone step up to the plate and admits their responsibility. The Marshall family have suffered enough and you can make this come to an end. Do the right thing and do it now.

Do you want Inmate Christopher Luke Pratt paroled? Help keep him in prison until 2022

June 1, 2009- It was just confirmed that Inmate Christopher Luke Pratt has had yet another change and a move in his prison status. He went from a Level II at Pine River Correctional Facility to Level IV at St. Louis Correctional Facility. Level IV is for inmates requiring close custody. Keep those letters coming to the Parole Board and MDOC. They do have an influence and we need to keep this inmate in prison until 2022 or until he is charged in the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands.
May 27, 2009- Inmate Pratt was just transferred from Mound Correctional Facility in Detroit to Pine River Correctional Facility in Gratiot County, St. Louis, Michigan. The facility has expanded to include Level II prisoners and Inmate Pratt remains at Level II.
He will be eligible for parole the first time in February 2012, however because of the nature of his felony domestic violence crimes against another former girl-friend he cannot be released by MDOC prior to that date. In January 2008 Calhoun County Circuit Judge Stephen Miller sentenced him to 5-15 years. http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261
Inmate Pratt has now been incarcerated for nearly 24 months. He did received credit for his county jail time while awaiting trial and has been in custody since June 24, 2007. Before you know it, he will be considered for parole.
We expect that charges will be brought against the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands within a short time. In the interim, we must do everything we can to assure that Inmate Pratt is never paroled.
Every citizen has the right to provide their input to the MDOC Parole Board concerning the possible parole of any inmate. You are not required to live in Michigan. All one has to do is complete a Crime Victim Notification Request Form and send it to Crime Victim Services in Lansing. After your name and address is placed in their confidential records you will be notified of inmate transfers and pending parole hearings. You have the right to respond with your position in opposing or favoring a parole of any inmate. The Parole Board takes every one of these letters from victims and concerned citizens into consideration so it is important that you express your opinion. The inmate does not view these letters nor are they aware of your identity so your safety and confidentiality is guaranteed. I know this system works because in the last several years I have submitted letters of opposition on other inmates and they remain in prison.

MDOC Victim Services- Inmate Notification Request Form http://www.michigan.gov/documents/CrimeVictimNotificationRequest090402_57232_7.pdf
To complete the form, include the inmate's name and MDOC number. Fill in the section with your information (victim), sign, and mail or fax to MDOC Crime Victim Services. If you are not the victim there is a box you can check as "a concerned citizen". It does not matter what your your relationship is to any inmate. Any person has the right to express their opinions on why an inmate should or should not be granted the privilege of parole.
Our community is at risk if Inmate Christopher Luke Pratt is released. Not only is he an eminent threat to his previous victims but he is a threat to others. Because of the nature of his crimes he should remain in prison until the expiration of his sentence in 2022. You can help make that happen.
We now have a large number of people on record who have sent in their notification forms to MDOC so they will be able to make their opinions known to the Parole Board. Our hope is that when Inmate Pratt’s parole hearing is scheduled that we will have 1,000 letters sent to the Parole Board opposing his release. You can help keep this vicious criminal in jail until 2022 or until there might be other action by law enforcement for allegations of other crimes.
If you need help completing the form, please feel free to call and I would even be glad to personally deliver the notification form if requested. I have a considerable amount of them available and pass them out on a daily basis to those who are interested. Help the Marshall family keep this evil person in prison. Had he been sent there years ago for his pattern of violence Mary Denise Lands would be alive today.
The forms may also be obtained by contacting MDOC Crime Victim Services. Their office has an outstanding professional staff that wants to help and answer all your questions.

Update- June 10, 2009- Don't let anyone tell you that writing letters of opposition for parole on any inmate isn't a good idea.
I submitted one opposing parole for this person and the Parole Board just made their decision.
Although Randy Tilman Slone, Inmate # 656705 was moved from the UP to Robert Cotton Correctional Facility in Jackson his parole was denied. He will not be eligible again until May 1, 2010. Keep sending those letters to MDOC Crime Victim Services. They do help protect our community.

Inmate Slone’s convictions:

Controlled Substance-Possession of Methamphetamine- 0-10 years maximum, CS - Operating/Maintaining a Lab Involving Methamphetamine- 2-20 years maximum.
He has only been in prison for less than 2 years. He deserves to remain their for another 18 years.

Michigan Department of Corrections
Crime Victim Services
PO Box 30003
Lansing, Michigan 48909

517.373.4467
Toll Free- 877.886.5401
Fax- 517.241.0536

Jim Carlin
Justinian Investigative Services
269.753.1181
Email- JustinianLaw@sbcglobal.net

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Cliff & Anita Marshall meet with Michigan Attorney General officials in Lansing

Today, Cliff & Anita Marshall and I received a very warm and cordial greeting from officials of the Michigan Attorney General in Lansing. We traveled to the Capitol for a scheduled meeting with Criminal Division Chief David E. Tanay and Assistant Attorney General Dennis J. Pheney, Jr. It included a very constructive and positive 2-hour conversation. Accompanying Cliff & Anita to Lansing was a close personal friend. She has offered them support and comfort over these last several years and always been there to help the family.

In November 2008 the Attorney General wrote to the family and advised that they would review with local authorities the circumstances on the disappearance of their daughter, Mary Denise Lands, and consider providing assistance. We were previously aware that AG officials have been to Calhoun County to meet with local law enforcement authorities on Mary’s case. There have been very positive developments and we were assured that everyone is working together in a unified professional manner to help bring Mary home, and to hold the person/s responsible for her disappearance and murder accountable in a court of law. The Michigan Attorney General is pleased with the ongoing progress of Calhoun County Prosecutor Susan Mladenoff, Assistant Prosecutor Dan Buscher, Chief Scott McDonald of the Marshall Police Department, and the investigators from the Michigan State Police.

Cliff & Anita brought with them to Lansing a small quilt made by another daughter residing in California. Sewn into the quilt are pieces of the many colorful medical scrubs that Mary wore when she was employed by Day One Family Health Care in Battle Creek. They also brought some of Mary's personal jewelry, which was recovered from the home that Chris Pratt shared with a girl-friend prior to his arrest in June 2007. See Video/links, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TlWlhjxFLMw

As most of you you know, in December 2007 Christopher Luke Pratt-http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261 was convicted of multiple felonies for a violent assault on that girl-friend and is currently serving 5-15 years in custody of the MDOC. He is now incarcerated at Mound Correctional Facility in Detroit and is not eligible for parole until February 2012. He is a suspect in the open homicide investigation of Mary Denise Lands, but has not yet been charged in Mary’s case.

We express our deepest gratitude to the Michigan Attorney General and all the dedicated professionals who are working as a team to close Mary's case. It is ironic that in two more days, on May 7th, Cliff & Anita will be celebrating their 44th wedding anniversary. Lets all work together to assure that this will be the last wedding anniversary they must endure not knowing the fate of their daughter, Mary.
Someone out there can provide that final piece of the puzzle for law enforcement authorities to close this case. You know who you are! You know the telephone numbers to call.
Help us bring Mary home.

Jim Carlin
JustinianLaw@sbcglobal.net
269.963.7068

Friday, May 1, 2009

Easter Sunday, April 12, 2009 marked 5 years and 1 month since Mary Denise Lands Disappeared

April 12, 2009 is Easter Sunday but also marked 5 years and 1 month since Mary Denise Lands allegedly walked away from her Waldon Pond Townhouse in Marshall, Michigan. Christopher Luke Pratt, her former fiance waited 44 hours before calling Mary's parent's in California to ask if
she was there? He has told nothing but lies since then and is a "suspect" in the open homicide investigation of Mary's disappearance. He is currently serving a 5-15 year sentence at MDOC Mound Prison in Detroit for domestic violence crimes against a more recent girl-friend, Norrene Parker. Inmate Pratt's earliest possible release date is February 2012. He has not yet been charged with any crimes related to Mary's disappearance and murder.

Holidays are especially difficult for the Marshall family and we thought we would share something with our friends and supporters.
Several years ago Mary's sister put together a hand-made quilt containing pieces of the various medical scrub clothing that Mary wore during employment at Day One Family Healthcare, PC in Battle Creek. The vibrant patterns and colors truly display the vitality that Mary demonstrated each and every day during her 39 years on this earth. She was always friendly, happy, positive and optimistic with such a contagious smile, and believed her family was the most important thing in her life.
Take a few minutes this Easter weekend to view Mary's quilt and if you like please feel free to call Cliff & Anita and wish them well. (269.781.4508)
If you have any information on Mary's case you are urged to please contact law enforcement. As we have been saying for many months, 2009 will finally bring some closure to the Marshall family. The person/s persons responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands will be held accountable in a court of law, and we will bring Mary home.
Thank you for your support and on behalf of the Mary Lands family we hope you all enjoy a sunny and happy Easter Holiday with your friends and family.
http://www.badd.org/MDLQuilt3.JPG
http://www.badd.org/MDLQuilt4.JPG
http://www.badd.org/MDLQuilt4.JPG
http://www.badd.org/MDLQuilt5.JPG
http://www.badd.org/MDLQuilt6.JPG
http://www.badd.org/MDLQuilt7.JPG
http://www.badd.org/MDLQuilt8.JPG
http://www.badd.org/MDLQuilt1.JPG

Jim Carlin
269.963.7068
Email- JustinianLaw@sbcglobal.net

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Mary Denise Lands- 5th Anniversary Vigil, March 12, 2009

March 29, 2009- Today we spoke with an official from Texas Equusearch, the respected and renowned mounted search and recovery organization located in Texas. They have just posted a link on Mary's disappearance. Be sure to view their own site and the great work they are doing for missing persons.

March 18, 2009- Karen Kraemer of the Broken Wings Network from Wisconsin recently appeared on the Tyra Banks Show and spoke about the disappearance and murder of her own daughter, Becky Marie (Kraemer) Marzo, of Milwaukee in 2003. Karen is helping in Mary’s case and is a great advocate for battered woman and the national tragedy of domestic violence. She commented many times on the similarities of her own daughter’s case and the circumstances of Mary’s disappearance. She will appear on a segment of the show on April 2, 2009. Check your own television listings for the exact time and station that will air her story. Don’t miss this great feature.

Battle Creek Enquirer- Letter to Editor, Inmate Christopher Luke Pratt- Prison Transfer- 03/18/09

WOOD-TV8 News- Where is Mary? Five years later? 03/12/09

WWMT Channel3News- Mary Lands, 5th Anniversary Vigil- 03/12/09

Battle Creek Enquirer- 03/13/09

Thursday, March 12, 2009 marked the 5th anniversary of the disappearance of Mary Denise Lands, and the family will hold another vigil at the Brooks Memorial Circle Fountain at Noon in Marshall, Michigan. Each year on March 12th since Mary purportedly walked away from her apartment Cliff & Anita Marshall have held a vigil on this date.
Mary's fiancé, Christopher Luke Pratt claims she went for a walk at 10:00 P.M. on a cold wintry night still wearing her light-weight medical scrubs from her job at Day One Family Healthcare in Battle Creek. He claimed she walked off wearing her favorite brown leather jacket and left her new Dodge Durango and cell telephone at the apartment. 44 hours later Chris Pratt called the family in California asking if Mary was there? The parents then notified the Marshall Police Department that their daughter was missing. Five months later in the summer of 2004 Chris Pratt was selling Mary's personal property including her brown leather jacket at a flea market in Homer. The jacket was recovered and turned over to the Marshall Police Department.
A new reward was recently reinstated in Mary’s case and the law enforcement community is working aggressively to solve the case. Christopher Luke Pratt is now serving a 5-15 year sentence for a violent assault against a more recent girl-friend. His earliest possible parole eligibility date is February 2012.
http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261 Chris Pratt has been named a suspect in the open homicide investigation of Mary Lands, but has not yet been charged. He was incarcerated by MDOC at the Mound Correctional Facility in Detroit.

March 12, 2009- 9:00 A.M.- Well this is not a good sign and obviously came on a sad day for the family, the 5th anniversary of Mary's disappearance. Chris Pratt was just moved from Level II at Mound Correctional Facility in Detroit to Cooper Street Correctional Facility in Jackson. He was reduced to the minimum standard of MDOC and reclassified as Level I. Next we will hear that because of prisons closing and staff reductions he will soon be released. Because his convictions were related to domestic violence he should not be eligible for parole until February 2012. You have to wonder if that criteria enacted by the Michigan legislature will be thrown out and he is looking at a release in the very near future? Norreen Parker, his most recent victim, better be concerned about these new developments.

March 12, 2009- 5:00 P.M.- Thank you to all the good people who today called MDOC, the police and the media about Christopher Luke Pratt being transferred to Cooper Street CF in Jackson and a reduction of his Level II to Level I. It just shows the power of our community. Inmate Pratt will be shuffling off to another prison and his Level II status will be put back in place. Maybe if we are lucky it will be the UP for the rest of the winter.Thank you again to WOOD-TV8 and the viewers for all the calls. It really gave some relief to Mary's parents to know we all will be safer. Kudos to our community to keep this alleged killer in a more secure location. In my opinion, I believe he killed Mary Lands and so does the law enforcement community. Chris Pratt needs to remain in prison for the rest of his life unless he makes a deal and tells the truth. It better be soon because some other perp is going to drop a dime on him first.

March 13, 2009- 7:45 A.M- Within 24 hours of MDOC learning that Christopher Luke Pratt is an inmate who is a suspect in an open homicide investigation his classification was changed back to a Level II. Cooper Street Correctional Facility in Jackson is a Level I facility so we presume he will be transferred to a Level II correctional facility. There is a saying that the wheels of justice turn slow, but grind exceedingly fine. Chris Pratt, you can try to use your sociopathic charm on prison officials, family and friends to believe that all this is going to go away and you will soon be free. In your deluded thinking you feel no remorse or empathy, but that is just another symptom of your mental defects.
People know what you did to Mary Lands and one day you will allocute in a court of law and be held accountable for Mary’s disappearance and death. You have seen our billboards and efforts to find Mary. Your earliest possible parole date is February 24, 2012. Let me assure you that we presently have at least 220 individuals who will be writing the Parole Board to ask that you not be released until your scheduled discharge date in 2022. By the time of your review in 2011 we will have at least 1,000 letters sent to Lansing opposing any release.
We are not going away, and we will bring Mary home.


March 16, 2009- "Top of the morn'in to you all". As we have previously mentioned, there is a saying that the wheels of justice turn slow, but grind exceedingly fine.This morning, Christopher Luke Pratt, Inmate # 673261 is now back at his old digs in Level II, Mound Correctional Facility in Detroit after a brief transfer to Cooper Street Correctional Facility in Jackson that MDOC acknowledges was an error. His minimal status to Level I has also been changed back to Level II.
Happy trails Christopher, & Happy St. Patrick's Day.
Welcome back to the Mound!
Jim Carlin

Help us bring Mary home.
Oh Mary Don't You Weep- 2008 4th Anniversary Vigil
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZdLwAGxu9M&




(Photo-Trace Christiansen, Battle Creek Enquirer)

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Press Conference on Mary's case was a huge success

New Rewards- Mary Lands Case- WOODTV8 News Story, 02/18/09
WXMI Fox13 News- New Reward in Missing Woman Case- 02/19/09
Battle Creek Enquirer- Reward in Mary Lands Case- 02/19/09
WOODTV-8 News- Foundation puts up Reward in Mary Lands Case- 02/19/09
WWMT-TV-Channel3 News- Reward Offered by Foundation- 02/19/09

Cliff & Anita Marshall were very pleased at the turnout in Marshall this afternoon. Acting Chief/Sgt. McDonald made a statement on a $5,000.00 reward being offered by the Carole Sund/Carrington Foundation in California. The Marshall family is also posting another $5,000.00 on their daughter’s case. Present were D/Sgt. Mike Salmen and D/Sgt. Mike Scott of the Michigan State Police, Susan Mladenoff of the Calhoun County Prosecutor’s Office.
The family stood together with law enforcement and vowed to bring to justice the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the authorities.

A special thank you goes out to Karren Kraemer, co-founder of the Broken Wings Network in Wisconsin for sharing the story of her daughter, Becky's disappearance. Her tragedy has so many parallels to that of Mary Lands. Karren Kraemer & The Broken Wings Network
In just one day we have already received new tips on Mary’s case and they have been passed along to the police. We continue to believe the investigation into Mary's disappearance will be resolved in 2009 and we will bring Mary home.
Dateline NBC- Karren Kraemer's Story, Broken Wings Network

Note- On November 25, 2008 the Carole Sund/Carrington Foundation in California was again contacted about Mary's disappearance. Their foundation places reward monies for missing persons. In February of 1999, Carole and Juli Sund and Silvina Pelosso were missing while on a sightseeing trip to Yosemite National Park. While they were missing, Francis and Carole Carrington, Carole Sund's parents, established rewards both for their safe return and for information on the whereabouts of their rental car. They believe that posting the reward money and receiving media attention on their case helped in locating the rental car, which gave them their first break in the case. It was for this reason the Carrington's established Carole Sund/Carrington Memorial Reward Foundation. The Foundation's goal is to safely return missing persons to their homes and to secure the arrest and conviction of violent criminals. The Carrington hope is to turn their tragedy into triumph for other families.
A reward for information on Mary's case was listed for some time however was then withdrawn, as is their policy. The foundation advised us they would consider reinstating a reward in Mary's case. They require a letter from the family, which has already been received. They also require verification from law enforcement that the case is open and a reward might assist police in their investigation. A letter was provided to First Lt. Dale Peet of the Michigan State Police on 12/02/2008 asking that his agency contact Sund/Carrington about reinstating the reward. We hope by the first of the year the Sund/Carrington Foundation will have a new reward available in the Mary Denise Lands case.
http://www.carolesundfoundation.com/sections/missing?person=285

Update- January 27, 2009- A special thanks to Michigan State Police Lt. Dale Peet. On December 28, 2008 he completed a compelling letter to the Carole Sund/Carrington Foundation concerning the reinstatement of a reward in Mary's case. We should soon learn more on our request to Sund/Carrington and an announcement is forthcoming from members of law enforcement. We will keep you advised. A special thanks to the Michigan State Police and their professional team for continued efforts to bring Mary home.
WWMT-Channel3 News- 02/06/09- Michigan State Police & Acting Marshall Chief/Sgt. Scott McDonald attend TrackMissing Event in Albion
Battle Creek Enquirer- 02/06/2009- New Albion group, TrackMissing to help in Mary Lands case

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Michigan Attorney General will examine Mary's case

Update- January 27, 2009-
Marshall Chronicle 01/16/09- Ken Morgan recommended as new Marshall Police Safety Chief

Battle Creek Enquirer- 01/14/09- City Manager Chris Olson recommends Ken Morgan as new police chief

Battle Creek Enquirer- 01/03/2009- Solis Accepts Post of Chief Assistant Prosecutor, Dan Buscher will stay on-

WWMT Channel3 News-11/18/2008

WZZM 13News 11/17/2008

In a very personal and poignant 6-page letter to Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox, Clifford & Anita Marshall expressed their years of anguish and frustration concerning the conduct of certain officers in the Marshall Police Department, and a lack of progress in Mary's case. They respectfully requested that the Michigan Attorney General take over jurisdiction of Mary's investigation.


Among numerous issues, their letter described how they were improperly humiliated, subjected to crude comments about DNA, and learned that MPD officers laughed and ridiculed Mary’s case. One senior officer told a family member, "Mary is like an old pair of shoes, she will be back". No official search of Mary's Waldon Pond apartment was made until December 8, 2004, 9 months later. The Michigan State Police requested the search warrant on December 7, 2004. It was approved by a magistrate on the same date, and executed on December 8, 2004.

In October 2006 it was claimed by MPD that Mary's Dodge Durango was being held as evidence although it was stored outside in open public view for over 2 1/2 years at Bud's Towing on 15 Mile Road in Marshall, Michigan. http://justiceformary.blogspot.com/2006/10/if-this-is-secured-evidence-at.html The vehicle was not secured, left unlocked, and could never be considered a piece of evidence in any court of law. When the family asked for the vehicle to be returned it was secretly moved. To this date it is retained at an unknown location and purportedly classified by former Chief Mike Olsen as "evidence" in Mary's case. After questions from the family, Vic Potter, owner of the towing company relinquished his claims for storage and moving charges related to the vehicle. It could appear that Mary's vehicle was not being held for evidence, but to build up storage fees that were in the thousands of dollars. Chase Bank or the Marshall family would have to pay the charges. This could be construed as a larceny by conversion scheme and fraud. The present bill was for a significant amount of money and appeared to be more of an extortion attempt, and one that was condoned by MPD. A Garage Keeper or Mechanic’s lien could be placed on the vehicle and there is no doubt that the bank not willing to pay the high costs and losing more money would sign over the vehicle title to the towing company. It could then be sold by the business for a considerable profit. The family doesn’t believe that this would even be a valid option under the law, but who knows? We are dealing with the Marshall Police Department and they do what they want, not necessarily what is legal and proper. It was the intent of the family that if the vehicle could be released a new loan could be signed with Chase Bank by the Marshall's. The bank would be satisfied and Cliff & Anita would have returned to their possession one of the few remaining possessions of their daughter. During this time the family made several inquiries with the local Chase Bank and the bank contacted MPD. Chase was advised that the vehicle is being held as evidence.
When further questioned about the facts related to the total bill and the "evidence" status of the Durango, who, what, when, and where it was moved, Mr. Potter stated he no longer has any connection to the Durango and does not know where it is presently stored. Shaking his hands, he advised, "I have nothing more to do with that Dodge Durango and there is no money owed to me on Mary's vehicle". For nearly 4 years and 9 months Mary's vehicle has been in the possession of MPD for no apparent legal reason. At least we hope it is in their possession.
December 2, 2008- Chase Bank today contacted MPD & Sgt. McDonald inquiring on the status of Mary’s vehicle? He advised the bank recovery official vehicle that the vehicle has always been held as evidence and it will not be released. It was reported the wheels were off it and the vehicle is under a covering. When asked about a time frame for the possible release, he replied, not any time soon. Chase Bank appreciated learning the information on the location of Mary's vehicle. They were totally unaware of what had taken place? The department handling the loan had no idea Mary was a missing persons, and the loan was written off in 2004. Although Sgt. McDonald claims that someone from Chase calls every six months they had no record in the file that the vehicle was even in the possession of the MPD. Chase asked MPD to keep them advised on the vehicle as they wish to take possession.

Christopher Luke Pratt reported that Mary Denise Lands walked away from their Waldon Pond Townhouse in Marshall on March 12, 2004 wearing medical scrubs and her brown leather jacket. The same leather jacket was recovered from a Homer flea market, 5 months later in the summer of 2004. It was personally being sold by Christopher Pratt with Mary’s other property. The flea-market booth was actually rented in the name of Ken Piski. Mr. Piske resides just east of the Pratt family residence in Albion. He is a close friend of Christopher Pratt and his brother, Jeff Pratt. After the jacket was recovered Christopher Pratt put up a sign at his booth for the remaining property- "Free". He then left the flea-market.
The jacket was immediately brought to the Marshall Police Department, but they took no action. Instead of officers being dispatched to the flea market to verify the situation MPD wanted Cliff Marshall to go there and retrieve any other property. Mr. Marshall told MPD that it was not his job to accomplish, it was a job for police investigators.

In June 2006 the family was investigated for an alleged home invasion, burglary and theft of Mary’s former residence after it was vacated by Mr. Pratt. He signed a criminal complaint after a 90-minute interview with Sgt. Rebecca Ivey, and within a day Cliff & Anita were advised to come into the police department for questioning. The Marshall's were suspects in felony crimes along with others. They complied and after meeting with Sgt. Ivey were asked to waive their Miranda Rights. They declined and requested to speak with an attorney, as did their private investigator on June 19, 2006. The Marshall's were then released. An interesting point during this time is that Chief Mike Olson told the Marshall's "with a wink and a nod" this is nothing, just forget about it. Although the management of Waldon Pond Townhouse was present and granted permission for the family to enter the vacant apartment, Sgt. Rebecca Ivey of the MPD still requested criminal warrants from the prosecutor for these serious felony crimes. The FOIA documentation on this incident includes a very candid hand-written 6-page statement from Debra Farrington, leasing manager of Waldon Pond. The FOIA response did not include a signed waiver of her rights although she was clearly a suspect in these crimes, and she was one of the four persons that Sgt. Ivey wished to charge with the felony offenses. The warrant requests were issued on June 22, 2006. On July 5, 2006 the warrant requests were denied by the Calhoun County Prosecutor's Office against all the persons involved. (FOIA documentation on this incident)- Christopher Luke Pratt, Complainant (06/19/2006) to MPD, 0906-2006- FOIA Request by Jim Carlin- Sgt. Rebecca Ivey requested warrants for home invasion, burglary, & theft allegedly committed by Cliff & Anita Marshall, Jim Carlin & Debra Farrington

Note: Supervisor Sgt. Rebecca Ivey was demoted to patrol officer by former Chief Mike Olsen prior to his firing or resignation in January 2008. However, it is believed her demotion in 2007 had nothing to do with the Mary Lands case, especially since Chief Olsen and other police management would have had to approve and sign off on of Sgt. Ivey's warrant requests.
A FOIA request was submitted to the City of Marshall in June 2008 on her demotion but it was denied by City Manager Chris Olson because a grievance action was pending.

December 2, 2008- Another FOIA Request was submitted to the City of Marshall on Sgt. Rebecca Ivey's demotion to patrtol officer. Information has been rceived was that there is no further grievance and/or court litigation in this matter and the FOIA materials requested for this incident should now be available. We expect a response within ten days under FOIA protocol. City Manager Chris Olson responded on 12/09/08 advising of a 10-day extension to comply with the request.
December 12, 2008- A limited redacted version of 2 separate disciplinary actions in 2007 against former sergeant Ivey was received, however it does make some reference to why she was demoted. Charges include Conduct Unbecoming Departmental Personnel, Neglect or Inattention to Duty, Unsatisfactory Performance, Request for Assistance. A FOIA appeal will be submitted on both discipline actions and the circumstances in those cases. MPD Sgt. Rebecca Ivey-Demotion to patrol officer-10/09/07, Limited FOIA Response, City of Marshall-12/12/08

Michigan Department of Corrections OTIS-Christopher Luke Pratt, Inmate# 673261

As most of you are aware, Christopher Luke Pratt was arrested on June 24, 2007 and remained in the Calhoun County Jail until his convictions by a jury in Circuit Court in December 2007. In January he was sentenced to 5-15 years in prison. http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261 for Domestic Violence, Unlawful Imprisonment, Interfering w/Electronic Communciations Causing Injury/Death, & Assault with Dangerous Weapon (Felonious Assault). These charges are unrelated to Mary's case and involved his most recent girl-friend. He has been incarcerated by MDOC, at Bellamy Creek Correctional Facility in Ionia and will not even be eligible for parole until February 24, 2012.
Update- December 4, 2008- Inmate #673261-Christopher Luke Pratt was just transferred from Bellamy Creek Correctional Facility in Ionia and is now incarcerated at Mound Correctional Facility in Detroit.
Inmate #673261- Christopher Luke Pratt, New House- Mound Correctional Facility, Detroit, Michigan

Shortly after March 2007 when the the new city manager, Chris Olson accepted his position the family asked for a meeting, which was attended by Cliff & Anita, and others. It was immediately apparent that Chris Olson did not want to listen to the family’s plight. He stated to the Marshall’s, "you are all part of the problem, not part of the solution." Anita walked out of the meeting and to this date the city manager has never contacted them or even sent a letter expressing his desire to help the family in the tragedy of their daughter’s disappearance. City Manager Chris Olson has never attended a vigil or event for Mary.

Some time in early 2008 the family learned through a FOIA request that Acting Chief-Sgt. Scott McDonald had classified Mary's case as a homicide. No one in law enforcement ever came to the family to explain the new status or why it might have been changed? For the first time in over 4 years the Mary Lands investigation was being called a homicide.

These are just a few of the incidents that were documented and included in the Marshall’s letter to the Attorney General. Almost immediately the family received a reply from the Office of Attorney General, Criminal Division Chief, dated November 20, 2008. In part it stated, the information contained in your letter is compelling and heartbreaking. I am writing to inform you that we intend to examine this case.

On February 12, 2009 it will have been 4 years & 11 months since Mary Denise Lands disappeared. The family has endured five holiday seasons without their beautiful daughter, but this is the first holiday that we all have hope. There is genuine optimism that the Michigan Attorney General will finally be the professional legal entity that can obtain justice for the family, bring Mary home, and hold accountable the person/s responsible for her disappearance and murder.

If anyone has information about Mary's case we ask you to please contact Chief Assistant Dan Buscher at the Calhoun County Prosecutor's Office- 269.969-6980, D/Sgt. Mike Salmen, Battle Creek Post, Michigan State Police- 269.968-6115 or the
Office of Michigan Attorney General- Toll Free- 877.765.8388

Note- On November 25, 2008 the Carole Sund/Carrington Foundation in California was again contacted about Mary's disappearance. Their foundation places reward monies for missing persons. In February of 1999, Carole and Juli Sund and Silvina Pelosso were missing while on a sightseeing trip to Yosemite National Park. While they were missing, Francis and Carole Carrington, Carole Sund's parents, established rewards both for their safe return and for information on the whereabouts of their rental car. They believe that posting the reward money and receiving media attention on their case helped in locating the rental car, which gave them their first break in the case. It was for this reason the Carrington's established Carole Sund/Carrington Memorial Reward Foundation. The Foundation's goal is to safely return missing persons to their homes and to secure the arrest and conviction of violent criminals. The Carrington hope is to turn their tragedy into triumph for other families.

A reward for information on Mary's case was listed for some time however was then withdrawn, as is their policy. The foundation advised us they would consider reinstating a reward in Mary's case. They require a letter from the family, which has already been received. They also require verification from law enforcement that the case is open and a reward might assist police in their investigation. A letter was provided to First Lt. Dale Peet of the Michigan State Police on 12/02/2008 asking that his agency contact Sund/Carrington about reinstating the reward. We hope by the first of the year the Sund/Carrington Foundation will have a new reward available in the Mary Denise Lands case. http://www.carolesundfoundation.com/sections/missing?person=285

Update- January 27, 2009- A special thanks to Michigan State Police Lt. Dale Peet. On December 28, 2008 he completed a compelling letter to the Carole Sund/Carrington Foundation concerning the reinstatement of a reward in Mary's case. We should soon learn more on our request to Sund/Carrington and an announcement is forthcoming from members of law enforcement. We will keep you advised. A special thanks to the Michigan State Police and their professional team for continued efforts to bring Mary home.

Friday, January 23, 2009

Marshall City Manager Recommends New Police Chief

Update- February 11, 2009- Battle Creek Enquirer- 02/11/2009- Chris Olsen Accepts new City Manager job in DeWitt, Michigan
Marshall Chronicle 01/16/09- Ken Morgan recommended as new Marshall Public Safety Chief
Battle Creek Enquirer- 01/14/09- City Manager Chris Olson recommends Ken Morgan as new police chief

The Battle Creek Enquirer featured a story that City Manager Chris Olson has recommended the hiring of Ken Morgan as the new Marshall police chief to lead its 12-member department.
On December 16, 2008 a selection committee including Sheriff Al Byam unanimously made the recommendation. Former Deputy Police Chief Brett Pehrson, a member of the selection committee, confirmed that Ken Morgan was unanimously recommended for the position. "He seemed like he'd be a good fit for the Marshall community," Pehrson said. Morgan was among the final four candidates interviewed on Dec. 16 by Chris Olson, Pehrson, city Human Resources Director Tracy Hall, Clerk/Treasurer Tracy Hovarter, Utilities Director Tom Tarkiewicz and Calhoun County Sheriff Al Byam.
If, in fact, Mr. Morgan does accept the position we warmly welcome him to the community. We hope he will be a beacon of light displaying honesty, integrity and professionalism for the police department. This recommendation by former Deputy Chief Perhson and Calhoun County Sheriff Byam could be the catapult to a successful resolution in Mary’s case.
Positive things seem to be happening and the Marshall family is very optimistic. We are awaiting information on a reward being reinstated in the Mary Lands case by the Carole Sund/Carrington Foundation in California. Lt. Dale W. Peet, Commander of the Battle Creek Post, Michigan State Police recently wrote, "As with any unsolved case, time has an impact on alliances and circumstances have changed. It is believed that there are others who may have information but have not yet come forward and as always the offering of a reward can sometimes be the turning point leading to a successful conclusion and closure for the families of those that have been missing."
It has been an enduring tragedy that has lasted over 4 years and 10 months for Cliff & Anita, but it seems to be coming to an end. We have no doubt that a professional police chief working with our new Calhoun County Prosecutor, the Attorney General’s Office, and the Michigan State Police will indeed bring to justice the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands.


From the Marshall Chronicle- January 17, 2009- City Manager Chris Olson issued this statement Friday afternoon: I am pleased to announce that I have selected, with the assistance of an interview committee, one final candidate for the position of police chief at this point in time. His name is Ken Morgan, and he has a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, a master's degree in criminal justice administration, and a second master's degree in professional counseling. He is also a graduate of the FBI national academy. Ken has twenty-three years of overall experience in law enforcement, with positions ranging from his start as a patrol officer up to serving as deputy chief (twice) in larger communities. Ken's overall command-level experience (from sergeant to deputy chief) totals 13 years. Ken has been decorated twice with distinguished service awards for risking his life in the line of duty, and is a recipient of the American Red Cross Heroes Award. Ken has worked with three police departments for CALEA national accreditation. He has also volunteered time with an Explorer Post with the Boy Scouts of America, on DARE foundations, with teen alcohol prevention efforts, with the Big Brothers program, Alzheimer's Association and Red Cross. He has also taught criminal justice classes at the community college level.Ken has not yet accepted the position, as he and his family are fully considering their needs in making their decision. We would be fortunate to have him join the City, and we are continuing with the hiring process accordingly.