Congratulations, D/Lt. Scott McDonald

Chief Jim Schwartz continues to make positive changes in the Marshall Police Department. We were all pleased to learn of the promotion of Scott McDonald from sergeant to lieutenant, and it is a well deserved promotion that will benefit his agency and our community.
Lt. McDonald and I recently spoke again on Mary's case, and we know that his agency is committed to bringing Mary home and closing the investigation. The person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands will be held accountable in a court of law.


(Photo courtesy, Corrine Kellogg, Marshall Chronicle-Advisor)

Remembering Mary once again, "We will never give up"

The Riverside Pub in Marshall hosted an event tonight to talk about the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands. The owner permitted two videos to be displayed to those in attendance. They included the YouTube video, "Mary Don't you Weep", and the slide show picture presentation of Mary's life that was initially shown to the public at the Gary Fields event over the Valentine's Day weekend. Anita Marshall narrated the slide video.
We had the pleasure of having the attendance of Marshall Police Chief Jim Schwartz at the event. Although it was his day off, he was present in full uniform to show his support. The chief talked with the people about his ideas on Mary's case and the need for citizens to come forward with any information they may have concerning the case. He emphasized from a crime scene perspective that he is going back to the first day of Mary's disappearance, and reviewing all evidence and tips. He is committed to solving the case and demonstrating the integrity of his agency.
Forms were distributed to those who may wish to go on record with the Michigan Department of Corrections, Parole Board, in opposing any parole for Christopher Luke Pratt. He is listed as a suspect in the homicide investigation of Mary Lands. To date, we have about 300 persons who have submitted letters to the Parole Board opposing any parole for Inmate Pratt. We hope to have over 1,000 letters opposing his release when he is eligible for a hearing in front of the Board. Inmate Pratt must remain in prison as he is a menace to society. He has demonstrated that he is violent, and has no regard for human life.You may find the form here on the right under "Links to Mary", or on the MDOC website under Victim Services.
http://www.michigan.gov/corrections/0,1607,7-119-1384-5494--,00.html
Please note that your letters and identity are confidential and the inmate does not know your name regardless if you are in opposition or approval to parole.

The Marshall family would like to express their deepest appreciation to Chief Schwartz for his attendance, the management of the Riverside Pub, and Brent Cole of Cole Entertainment.
On Monday, April 12, 2010 the same program will be held at 7:00 P.M. at the Riverside, 405 W. Pearl Street in Marshall. Cliff & Anita will be present. The two videos will again be shown for the public.
Come on out and say hello to the family, and help bring Mary home.

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

Mary Denise Lands, 6th Anniversary Vigil- "Thank you for your support"

It was a great day in remembrance of Mary Denise Lands, and the Marshall family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to the Calhoun County Prosecutor's Office, Chief Jim Schwartz of the Marshall Police Department, other members of law enforcement, Michelle Hoeksma of Safe Place Shelter, Heather Holland of TrackMissing, Father Robert Creagan of St. Joseph Catholic Church, the media, and our friends and supporters who attended Mary's vigil. Thank you again for your loyal support. With all your help we have not doubt that we will bring Mary home. Mary Lands 6th Anniversary Vigil- YouTube-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nuUXs3MHh94

March 12, 2010 marked the 6th year anniversary when we must once again gather in hope of bringing Mary home. It will be 2,190 days since her former fiancé, Christopher Luke Pratt claimed that she walked away from their Waldon Pond apartment on a cold winter snowy night and was never heard from again. 44 hours later he called Mary's parents and asked if she was with them in California? Today, Chris Pratt sits in a Level IV Michigan prison cell convicted of felony domestic violence crimes against a more recent girl-friend. In 2008 he was sentenced to 5-15 years and will not be eligible for parole until February 2012. Prior to any parole hearing, we plan to have citizens send 1,000 letters to the Parole Board of the Michigan Department of Corrections opposing any parole. Chris Pratt is a dangerous criminal and we are asking that he remain in prison until the expiration of his sentence in 2022.
MDOC OTIS link- Inmate Christoper Luke Pratt, #673261-
http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261

We welcome you to gather with us at the Brooks Memorial Fountain at the circle in Marshall on Friday, March 12th at 11:00 A.M. As we have done on five previous anniversaries, Cliff & Anita and our good friends and supporters will release balloons in honor of Mary's memory. 45 red heart-shaped balloons will be released to signify the 45 years since Mary was born. 6 yellow heart-shaped balloons will also be released, one for each year that we have had to hold these vigils on her behalf. It appears that the winter weather will not present a problem, and the forecast is for a clear and sunny 60 degree day.
An introductory prayer will be given by Rev. Robert F. Craegan, Pastor of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Battle Creek. We have asked members of law enforcement, Michigan Attorney General, Calhoun County Prosecutor's Office, representatives of Safe Place Shelter, and others to join us. Mary was a tragic victim of domestic violence and each year we use her anniversary not only to keep her name in the mind of the people in our community, but to remind us all about the crucial issue of domestic violence. Let's make 2010 the year that we can bring Mary home, and be assured that the person/s responsible for her disappearance and murder will be held accountable in a court of law. One person in our community can come forward and provide that final piece of the puzzle in this case. We urge you to do it now! Help us, "Bring Mary Home".

On February 24, 2010 the Marshall family attended the "2010 Summit to Fight Interpersonal Violence". The event was sponsored by Safe Place, and The Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Coordinating Council and was held at the Crossroads Church & Ministries of Marshall. Crossroads Church graciously provided a warm and comfortable setting for the day-long seminar.
Karren Kraemer of Broken Wings Network was among the speakers and Anita also spoke to the nearly 100 professionals in the audience. They included social workers, counselors, advocates, law enforcement, attorneys, and many others who share an interest in public awareness on the national tragedy of domestic violence. Anita shared numerous photographs and a video of Mary and tearfully talked about her missing daughter.




(Cliff & Anita, with Karren Kraemer
02/25/2010)

For additional information contact Jim Carlin
Tel- 269.753.1181
Email- JustinianLaw@sbcglobal.net

Valentine's Day Tribute to Mary Lands, a huge success!

Thank you for the warm and wonderful show of support last night at the Gary Fields Comedy Club, BallJoint/Godfather's Pizza for the Valentine's Day 2010 Tribute to Mary Denise Lands. The hall was packed with nearly 200 people and we received a substantial amount of money, all of which will go into the Mary Lands Trusts Fund. The show was hosted by Dwayne Gill, America's funniest cop, who coincidently is one of the finest among the Michigan State Police.
We have posted a brief video of the event on YouTube for your interest and perusal.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xuf3v1CGxtY

We would also like to call your attention to another video pertinent to Mary's case; " Oh Mary, Don't you weep"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZdLwAGxu9M
Please take a few minutes to view the videos and help us in our efforts to bring Mary home. Next month, on March 12th, Mary will have been missing for 6 years. We hope and pray that this will be the year we can bring her home and the person/s responsible for the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands will be held accountable in a court of law.

On behalf of the Marshall family, we again thank you for your help.

Jim Carlin

Tel- 269.753.1181
Fax-888.221.4931 (Toll Free)
Email- JustinianLaw@sbcglobal.net

The YouTube video also includes the following information. We hope that someone will come forward and help law enforcement close this case.

A Valentine's Day tribute on behalf of Mary Denise Lands, who disappeared from Marshall, Michigan on March 12, 2004. The event was held on February 13, 2010 at the Gary Fields Comedy Club, BallJoint/Godfather's Pizza in Battle Creek, Michigan. Nearly 200 friends and supporters of Mary filled the audience. Entertainment was also provided by Dwayne Gill, America's funniest cop. Dwayne is a 17-year veteran of the Michigan State Police. The introduction is provided by Jim Carlin, the professional investigator who has donated his time and resources to the family over the last six years.

Next month on March 12th will mark 6 years since Mary was last seen by her fiancé, Christopher Luke Pratt, after he alleged she walked away from her Walden Pond apartment on a cold snowy winter night. 44 hours later he called the family in California asking if Mary was there? The family then notified the police since her boy friend had not done so.

It has been a long and arduous struggle for Mary's parent's, Cliff & Anita Marshall. There have been 6 holiday seasons without knowing the fate of their daughter, and they need your help. This has gone on far too long and Mary needs to be brought home. The person/s responsible for her disappearance and murder must be held accountable in a court of law.

In 2007, Chris Pratt was convicted of felony domestic violence crimes against another girl-friend. He was sentenced to 5-15 years in prison and is not eligible for parole until February 2012. The family and our community plans to send over 1,000 letters to the Parole Board of the Michigan Department of Corrections to keep Inmate Pratt in prison for his full term. He is now listed as the "suspect" in the open homicide investigation of Mary Denise Lands. View the MDOC link for Inmate #673261, Christopher Luke Pratt-
http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/asp/otis2profile.asp?mdocNumber=673261

The Marshall family thanks you for your support. We will never cease in our mutual efforts to achieve Justice for Mary and to bring her home. If you can help, please contact:

D/Sgt. Scott McDonald, Marshall Police Department- 269.781.2596
D/Sgt Mike Salmen, Michigan State Police, Battle Creek Post- 269.968.6115
D/Sgt. Mike Scott, Michigan State Police, White Pigeon Post- 269-483-7612
Calhoun County Prosecutor's Office- 269.969.6980
Office of the Michigan Attorney General- 517.241.6565

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

A Valentine's Day Tribute to Mary Denise Lands

Update- January 17, 2010- For several months entertainer, Gary Fields, the GodFather of Comedy has offered to host an event for the Marshall family on behalf of their missing daughter, Mary Denise Lands. Plans have now been finalized for a Valentine's Day weekend program that will be held at GodFather's Pizza/Ball Joint in Battle Creek. You may recall, the owner of this establishment, Dick Johnson hosted the 1st annual "Ride for Mary" motorcycle run, which was held in August 2007 to promote public awareness for Mary's disappearance. On March 12, 2010 she will have been missing for 6 years.
We have an outstanding performer for the event. He is Dwayne Gill, "America's Funniest Cop" and ironically he reigns from Lansing, and is one of the Michigan State Police finest. You may read more about Dwayne at his web site http://www.dwaynegill.com . Maybe his appearance for Mary's event is an omen of good things to come in 2010? We hope and pray that this will be the year we can bring Mary home and the person/s responsible for her disappearance and murder will be held accountable in a court of law.
Tickets for the Valentine's Day Tribute to Mary are now available for $10.00 per person, with the proceeds going to the Mary Lands Trust Fund. The event will be held on Saturday, February 13, 2010 from 6:00-8:00 P.M. We hope our friends and supporters will join us for a great evening of fun and comedy. Come out and visit Cliff & Anita and have a great time. Tickets can be delivered, if requested. Contact- Cliff & Anita Marshall, 269.781.4508, or Jim Carlin, 269.753.1181, Email- JustinianLaw@sbcglobal.net

Battle Creek Enquirer Story & Photographs- January 5, 2010-
Gary Fields' Regular Blues Jams have Returned

From 7 to 11 p.m. tonight and every Tuesday night, blues musicians are invited to jam with house musicians at the Ball Joint, 4720 Beckley Road, the legendary Battle Creek restaurateur, comedy host and music enthusiast Gary Fields announced today.
There is no cover charge and all are invited to play, Fields said.
Also available tonight will be Fields' staple chicken wings.
The blues and wings were a staple at Fields' comedy club downtown, the only place which regularly hosted blues musicians, until the club closed in October. "It's been going real well," Fields said. "We're even thinking about starting up the Monday night bike nights down here."

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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 fiancé 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.

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

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

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

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
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http://www.badd.org/MDLQuilt1.JPG

Jim Carlin
269.963.7068
Email- JustinianLaw@sbcglobal.net

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)