Update, August 20, 2007- Mr. Pratt’s attorney appeared for a motion hearing in Calhoun County Circuit Court asking that the charges against Christopher Pratt be dismissed. He also presented a motion for a bond reduction on the defendant. Mr. Pratt was present for the hearing after being escorted into court by a deputy sheriff. Three members of the Pratt family were also present in court. Chief Assistant Prosecutor Dan Buscher represented the State of Michigan.Mr. Pratt’s attorney argued that the False Imprisonment charge was a "stretch at most" and there was no restraint. On the count of Telephone Interference (Ripping out the phone) he stated that the "ruckus" had already occurred, and the charge was not appropriate. He further stated that Mr. Pratt and his former girl-friend had been involved in a one-year relationship, and there was no force. He also argued that the magistrate and district judge had abused their authority on the bond issue. Mr. Buscher, on behalf of the State, responded with confidence and clarity on each issue citing pages of testimony from the Preliminary Examination. He further stated the defendant was a dangerous person.
After a 20-minute hearing Judge Stephen B. Miller denied a defense request to quash any of the charges, and further denied reduction of the $75,000.00 bond. Mr. Pratt was returned to the Calhoun County Jail and faces a maximum of 38 years in prison and fines. If it is not heard on November 6th it will be be first of the docket for November 27, 2007.
(Chris Pratt, Halloween 2006, as the Grim Reaper)- After this photograph was recognized by Marshall family members it was immediately determined that this cloak was actually made by Mary's sister. Her mother, Anita brought it back from California as a gift for Mary in 2001. Mr. Pratt claims that this costume was his and handed down by the Pratt family over the years and he traditionally wore it each Halloween. Ironic, Isn't it?
Mary’s sister said it all quite well on one of the the recent postings, and we thank everyone for the support they have offered over the last 44 months. I reiterate my own request to anyone in the Pratt family about the return of Mary’s cloak. We know that there are many good people in their family and we ask if one of them might consider this family request? I can intricately describe the fabric and design of the cloak if there is any doubt? We appeal to Louise Pratt, Jordan, his mother, and the many aunts and uncles of your family to return this item. The Marshall’s have so little of sentimental value from their daughter and it would be a kind gesture. We know the cloak was removed from the house on 15 ½ Mile Road after Chris was incarcerated. It probably is among the items that were moved by family members after his former girl-friend vacated the premises. Thank you for your consideration.
http://www.woodtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=6735834
The recent motorcycle benefit "Ride for Mary" Ride for Mary- New YouTube Video was a huge success with nearly 300 participants. More and more people are coming forward and providing information about the disappearance and murder of Mary Denise Lands. She has now been missing for 42 months, and Labor Day, September 3, 2007 would have been Mary's 43rd birthday. Mary Denise Lands- Video
Are You a Victim of Domestic Violence? Michigan State Police- Domestic Violence Awareness
In the suburbs, a man kills his wife and then turns the gun on himself. Police are called to a hospital to investigate an elderly woman with a fractured hip after being pushed down by her adult son. A teenage girl is punched in the stomach by her ex-boyfriend in the hallway at school. Each of these events raises the same question: Could this tragedy have been prevented?
What is domestic violence?
Domestic violence is a pattern of learned behavior in which one person uses physical, sexual, and emotional abuse to control another person.
Domestic violence is not a family matter. It is a crime, and it is in Michigan. The Michigan State Police Uniform Crime Report tells us there were 54,258 reported victims and 30 reported murders related to domestic violence in 2004. Domestic violence is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail and/or a $500 fine.
Under Michigan law, a person has a domestic relationship if any of the following apply:
· Spouse or former spouse
· Dating relationship or former dating relationship
· Child in common
· Resident or former resident of the same household
What does domestic violence look like?
· The following are some of the most common tactics used by abusers to control their partners but certainly not a complete list. If you or someone you know has their personal freedom restricted or is afraid of their partner, they may be a victim of domestic violence.
Physical Abuse
· Pushed, shoved or kicked
· Slapped or bitten
· Strangled
· Hit or punched
· Locked out of your home
· Denied help when ill, injured or pregnant
· Weapon used against you
· By physical force, not being allowed to leave
· Objects thrown at you
· Abandoned in a dangerous situation
Sexual Abuse
· Forced to have sex or watch sexual acts
· Forced to perform sexual acts or have sexual acts performed on you
· Forced to dress more sexually than you wish
· Forced to have sex after a physical assault, when you are ill or as a condition of the relationship
Emotional & Psychological Abuse
· Threatened harm to you, your family or your pets
· Beliefs, race, heritage, class, religion, or sexual orientation ridiculed
· Manipulated with lies and contradictions
· Being convinced you are to blame for the abuse
· Stalked
Economic Abuse
· Denied access to bank accounts, credit cards or vehicle
· Partner controls all the finances
· Prevented from getting or keeping a job or from going to school
· Limits your access to health, prescription or dental insurance
What can you do to help someone who is being abused?
· Educate yourself about domestic violence.
· Let go of any expectations you have that there is a "quick fix" to domestic violence or to the obstacles a woman faces. Understand that a woman's "inaction" may very well be her best safety strategy at any given time.
· Believe her and let her know that you do.
· Listen to what she tells you and avoid making judgments
· Validate her feelings.
· Avoid victim blaming. Tell her the abuse is not her fault.
· Take her fears seriously. If you are concerned about her safety, express your concern without judgment by saying, "Your situation sounds dangerous and I'm concerned for your safety."
· Support her decisions. Remember there are risks attached to every decision an abused woman makes. If you truly want to help, be patient and respectful, even if you don't agree.
Who do you contact for help?
Often, the best source of help and information is your local program. For more information on local support services, please visit the Michigan Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence website at: http://www.mcadsv.org/ and click on "Locate Help Near You."
You may also call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233.) Call toll free, 24 hours a day, anywhere in the U.S. Trained counselors provide confidential crisis intervention, support, information and referrals to local programs to victims of domestic violence, their families and friends. The hotline links people to help in their area, including shelters, legal and social assistance programs. Help in English and Spanish with interpreters available in 139 more languages.
For additional information on this important issue, please contact Prevention Services Section, (517) 336-4006.
Sources: The Michigan Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence; Calhoun County Domestic Violence Council Education Prevention Safety and Support Information Guide; and the 2002 MSP Uniform Crime Report.
Additional online resource tools related to domestic violence and abuse:
National Domestic Violence Hotline
http://www.ndvh.org
American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress
http://www.aaets.org/article144.htm
Helpguide.org-
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/domestic_violence_abuse_types_signs_causes_effects.htm
