Sean Sidi Suffers from TBI and Missing! National Call to Action Details

Sean Sidi vanished on May 21, 2013 from San Francisco, CA. The Sidi is requesting help from the public to help ensure all resources are utilized by San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) to find their son. Sean has already been missing four weeks!

Missing with Significant Medical Disability
Admitted to San Francisco General Hospital for a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) on November 12, 2012, Sean Sidi suffered multiple skull fractures, subdural and epidural hematomas, and a frontal contusion. Sean underwent immediate brain surgery to save his life.

TBI can cause wide-ranging physical and psychological effects that can appear even months after the injury to include loss of consciousness, profound confusion, dizziness and loss of balance, convulsions, and seizures, to memory and concentration problems.

Sean’s surgeon Dr. Geoffrey Manley is Professor and Vice-Chair of Neurological Surgery at UCSF and Chief of Neurosurgery at San Francisco General Hospital. Dr. Manley issued a letter on June 18, 2013 with a powerful message of urgency. “Sean Sidi is still recovering from his brain injury. This puts Sean at SIGNIFICANT RISK as a missing person.” Dr. Manley goes on to state, I am fearful that in his current state he is in danger of not making a meaningful recovery or death if he is not found quickly.”

The urgency to find Sean cannot be overstated and you can help! See how you can help below.


The Sidi family is requesting the following from San Francisco Police Department:

1. SFPD TO COMPLETE SEAN’S ENTRY IN THE FBI NATIONAL CRIME INFORMATION CENTER (NCIC) BY ELEVATING HIS STATUS FROM THE “OTHER” CATEGORY TO THE “DISABLED” CATEGORY, AND ADD ALL MEDICAL DESCRIPTORS SUCH AS SURGICAL SCARS AND FRACTURES.

2. REQUEST HELP FROM FBI. TYPICALLY, TO OBTAIN ASSISTANCE ON A MISSING ADULT CASE, THE REQUEST MUST BE MADE BY A LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY. THE SIDI FAMILY IS REQUESTING SFPD TO REQUEST IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE FROM THE FBI.

3. REQUEST FREE SERVICES OF SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAMS, INCLUDING
MARIN SEARCH AND RESCUE.

4. COORDINATE W/ GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE AUTHORITIES TO VIEW
SURVEILLANCE.

CALL TO ACTION – WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP 

Call, write, or email the San Francisco Mayor’s office: 415.554.6141 - Ask for Deputy Paul Henderson and REQUEST that the Mayor’s office intercede with SFPD and help effectuate FBI assistance in the search. Reference SF Police Case # 130419573 / Sean SIDI

Mayor Edwin M. Lee

c/o Deputy Paul Henderson

City Hall, Room 200,
1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place
San Francisco, CA 94102
Fax: (415) 554-6160
Email: mayoredwinlee@sfgov.org
Tel: 415. 554.6141
Fax: 415.554.6160


Call, write, or email Attorney General Kamala Harris’s office: 916.445.9555 and REQUEST the AG’s office to intercede with SFPD and help effectuate FBI assistance in the search for SEAN Sidi. Reference SF Police Case # 130419573 / Sean SIDI.

Kamala Harris
Office of the Attorney General
1300 "I" Street
Sacramento, CA 95814-2919
Email: missing.persons@doj.ca.gov
Tel: 1.916.445.9555
Fax: 916.323.5341

Please help. Never underestimate how one person can help save a life!

Sean Sidi missing May 21, 2013

Please visit www.seansidi.com for additional information. 

About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s Missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adults in 2000. Kym is an expert in the field of missing persons and continues to advocate for crime victims utilizing 20 years’ experience working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media.

You can help find Sean Sidi - Join the National Call to Action!

Nineteen-year-old Sean Sidi has been missing since Tuesday, May 21, 2013 from San Francisco, CA.  That morning Sean went to visit a former high school teacher near 150 Oak Street in San Francisco at approximately 11:40AM. He then spoke to his father on his cell phone at approximately 1:30PM, indicating he was heading to the park. His cell phone went dead at approximately 2:00PM. That is where the mystery begins.

San Francisco Police Department conducted a “Ping Trace” on Sean’s cell phone and determined his cell phone had gone dead in the vicinity of Alvord and Stow Lakes in Golden Gate Park and the Inner Richmond area. Sean has vanished without a trace.

Sean’s parents Lynn Ching and Claude Sidi indicate Sean has always had a firm history of informing his parents of his whereabouts, never leaving for extended periods and would typically come home by 6PM in the evening.  His parents are desperate to find their son and his medical condition warrants his disappearance should be handled with priority by the investigating law enforcement agency.

Missing with Significant Medical Disability

Admitted to San Francisco General Hospital for a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) on November 12, 2012, Sean suffered multiple skull fractures, subdural and epidural hematomas, and a frontal contusion. Sean underwent immediate brain surgery to save his life.

TBI can cause wide-ranging physical and psychological effects that can appear even months after the injury to include loss of consciousness, profound confusion, dizziness and loss of balance, convulsions, and seizures, to memory and concentration problems.

Sean’s surgeon Dr. Geoffrey Manley is Professor and Vice-Chair of Neurological Surgery at UCSF and Chief of Neurosurgery at San Francisco General Hospital.  Dr. Manley issued a letter on June 18, 2013 with a powerful message of urgency. “Sean Sidi is still recovering from his brain injury. This puts Sean at SIGNIFICANT RISK as a missing person.” Dr. Manley goes on to state, “ I am fearful that in his current state he is in danger of not making a meaningful recovery or death if he is not found quickly.”

The urgency to find Sean cannot be overstated.

How you can help

The Sidi family will be holding a “Vigil for Sean” on June 23, 2013 at 2PM at Golden Gate Park (Stanyan and Haight Streets).

The purpose of the vigil is to request help from the San Francisco Community. Because Sean is considered a “very high risk” missing  person with a medical disability, the Sidi family is requesting  San Francisco Police Department immediately enter Sean’s descriptive information into the proper "Disability" category of the FBI National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and ensure all available resources available to the department are being utilized to find their son.

If you reside in the San Francisco area and can attend this event, your support is appreciated but you do not have to be in the San Francisco area to help.

On Sunday, June 23, the Sidi family will be releasing additional information about the search for Sean Sidi and an important “Call to Action” for the nation to join the search. 

I urge you to become involved. You may also visit www.seansidi.com for additional information.

When a loved one missing, few human experiences can be as traumatic for a family and no family should be alone in their search.

Sean’s descriptive information:

Name: Sean Sidi

Age: 19

Height: 5’ 5”

Weight: 120 lbs

Race: Asian/Caucasian

Hair: Dark brown

Eyes: Dark Brown

Last seen wearing:  Black and grey hooded “North Face” rain jacket, blue jeans, and black canvas shoes.

Identifying Features: Wearing braces on teeth, surgical scars on head from recent brain surgery, healing fracture on left wrist and wearing a black splint on arm.



About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s Missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adults in 2000. Kym is an expert in the field of missing persons and continues to advocate for crime victims utilizing 20 years’ experience working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media.

Divorce and Child Custody Investigations - Private Investigators focused on the safety of children

How can a private investigator help keep my child safe during divorce or child custody dispute?

All too common in today’s headlines are stories involving children who have been abused. While we worry about our children’s safety around strangers, we sometimes fail to take the proper precautions to keep children safe in their own environments. Private investigators specializing in child custody investigations work directly with an attorney to generate a formative case for impeachment. Child custody investigators are trained to investigate and detect child abuse, neglect, substance and alcohol abuse, and other behaviors that may endanger a child. The information gathered by a qualified child custody private investigator about a custodial or non-custodial parent during a legal custody investigation, can uncover behavior that places a child at risk of harm, while also documenting the incidents of concern. This is a critical step in ensuring the information gathered during the child custody investigation can be presented in court if necessary. During cases of separation and divorce, no cutting corners when considering the safety of a child, and a qualified private investigator can literally save a child’s life.

Courtesy of  Throughmyeyes

Why is it important to utilize a private investigator specializing in child custody investigations?

Any separation or divorce is an emotional time during one’s life. At times, the situation can become volatile. While a parent’s first priority should be the child’s safety and emotional stability, it is not uncommon for parents to make false allegations to restrict the other parent’s access to the child. Unfortunately, children commonly become the pawns during a divorce and child custody case. Utilizing a private investigator specializing in custodial investigations can reduce incidents of false accusations, substantiate legitimate allegations, and ensure the child’s well-being is first priority.

Ideally, a qualified and licensed private investigator is hired to conduct the child custody investigation and work directly with an attorney during the pre-filing phase. The private investigator and the attorney handling the casework together to ensure all concerns are addressed prior to filing the case in court. This also ensures as much information as possible is presented to the court during the initial phase of the child custody case.

What happens during a child custody investigation?

A child custody investigator can document critical information during exchanges and visitations to chronicle how the child is treated while in the care of the other parent. Gathering evidence supporting mistreatment or neglect of a child during a legal custody investigation can entail interviewing the other parent, questioning witnesses, and conducting background checks on all parties involved in the child’s care. In addition, an experienced private investigator will conduct an on-site assessment of the child’s home can determine if the child is being cared for in a suitable environment by evaluating the cleanliness of the home and those who reside in, or frequently visit the home.

Also very common is utilizing video surveillance to document the parent’s behavior while the child is in their care, documenting those the parent associates with and who the parent may be exposing the child to, if the parent is participating in an illegal of reckless behavior, and any incidents of abuse such as keeping record of any bruises or injuries. Hiring a licensed child custody investigator ensures the investigation is conducted legally and the quality of evidence gathered can be used in a court of law. If required, the investigator will also provide expert court testimony.

Should I hire a child custody private investigator and what should I be doing?

• In court, judges commonly hear accusations from both sides. At times it becomes very difficult to determine who may be telling the truth and if concerns are warranted. Evidence presented in court by a licensed private investigator provides documented proof of allegations the court must take into consideration when making a ruling in a child custody case. It is especially important to present an accurate representation of a person’s character during any court case and even more important when children’s lives are impacted.

• If you suspect the other parent may be abusing your child emotionally or physically while in their care, it is important to substantiate those concerns. While hiring an investigator can guide and assist you, keeping a journal of any negative events, comments your child makes that are of concern, comments or threats the other parent makes to you, are helpful. Especially important, document any injuries the child has sustained in the care of the other parent by keeping written record and photographs of the injuries. Also, record any medical treatment received by a medical professional.

• If you suspect the other parent may be drinking excessively or involved in substance abuse while caring for the child, a private investigator can document the other parent’s actions by observing their daily activities, document those who come and go at the residence, and detect drug and alcohol abuse. 

• If you suspect the other parent is neglectful, participating in any kind of criminal behavior, or associating with individuals who may have a criminal background, it is best to have a private investigator perform a comprehensive background check on the other parent, anyone that resides with the parent or has interaction with your child. It is important to keep in mind, most incidents of child abuse and child death, occur within the home of a child and injuries inflicted by those trusted to care for the child. 

 

• If you are not certain who the other parent is associating with, a private investigator can conduct surveillance to document who is coming and going at the home, even documenting license plates to determine the identity of individuals permitted to be in close proximity or care for your child. 

• If you are concerned about how a child custody investigation may affect your child, it is important to know professional private investigators are highly trained in child custody investigations to utilize investigative methods that minimize exposure of the child to the investigation. In fact, most investigations can be conducted without the child ever knowing, as the investigator is there to protect the child and serve in their best interest.

When children’s safety is in question, it is always best to be safe than sorry. If no questionable behavior is uncovered, everyone can feel secure knowing the child is in safe hands with two loving and responsible parents.

About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s Missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adults in 2000. Kym is an expert in the field of missing persons and continues to advocate for crime victims utilizing 20 years’ experience working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media.

Effective business intelligence protects company bottom-line

Whether your company is entering a merger, considering an investment, or assessing a competitor’s advantage, due diligence is a necessary factor to ensure a successful outcome.  Business leaders know the importance of growth but every opportunity presented holds the potential for success or failure.

Business intelligence consists of collecting and organizing large amounts of data that enable businesses to identify opportunities and develop strategies that promote long-term success. Hans Peter Luhn, a researcher for IBM, said in a 1958 IBM Journal article, “Business intelligence is the ability to apprehend the interrelationships of presented facts in such a way as to guide action toward a desired goal.”

Making better decisions based on business intelligence

Successful business leaders know the importance of information gathering and review before making any business decision. They draw information and knowledge from various professional disciplines including business consulting, law firms, journalists, and of course investigators.

For instance, when considering a merger with another company it is crucial to know as much about the company’s history, business management, ethics, financial solvency, possible undisclosed liabilities, leadership of the company, and their affiliations. All business transactions have potential risks and it important to assess these risks prior to entering any business transaction. The public information gathered can be quite revealing and prevent a decision that could devastate years of hard work, reputation, and even avoid litigation in the aftermath.

Another circumstance that could arise is that your company may want to know the demographics of your competitor’s clients. The information gathered would contain the number of products offered by the company, how many were products were purchased, how many were sold to men or women, the age brackets of those who purchased the products, the average income level, zip code, and level of education. Utilizing a combination of commercial due diligence and intensive analytical due diligence can forecast sales growth; identify a competitor’s operational metrics, procurement, customer management, and even fraud.

Benefits of internal business intelligence

While business intelligence can identify external opportunities and risks, internal business intelligence can be equally important. For instance, in the Human Resources Department of a company, the data collected on employee’s absences can be a predictive trend and therefore a strategy developed to combat income loss and retain employees. The same company may want to gauge how their latest marketing campaign is increasing sales in order to produce a trend analysis report and present the information in east to understand graphs and charts in PowerPoint at the next Board Meeting. The advantage of data analysis is endless when assessing performance measures of a business.

The risks of economic espionage

Corporations of all sizes face risks both internally and externally. Protecting trade and investment secrets has become increasingly difficult for large corporations entering the age of cyberspace. International corporations face increased loss and risk that ultimately affects the American economy.

In June 2000, Bloomberg BusinessWeek reported Larry Ellison, Chief Executive of Oracle admitted to hiring a private detective agency to investigate groups that supported Microsoft. Oracle was trying to uncover ties to research groups that had been releasing studies supportive of Microsoft during an antitrust trial.

Claiming it was his “civic duty” to investigate Microsoft’s affiliations, it was uncovered, the investigative group hired by Oracle attempted to buy trash from two housekeepers at the Association for Competitive Technology.

In a June 28, 2012, statement before the House Committee on Homeland Security and Subcommittee on Counter-terrorism and Intelligence, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Counter Intelligence Division, estimated more than $13 billion losses to the American economy due to economic espionage.

Whether an insider employee is selling trade secrets, a competitor is attempting to infiltrate, or a company is the target of cyber-attacks, more and more companies, governments, and nonprofits face significant risks. Business intelligence when conducted legally and ethically can protect more than the bottom-line.

Private Investigators specialize in business intelligence

Professional investigative teams have private investigators that can verify information, collect information about financial transactions, assets, investments, liabilities, and identify existing contracts, business practices, and even political associations. The information is then provided to the client providing a solid base for decision-making.

Business intelligence involves research, measurement, querying, analytics, data mining, performance management, reporting, identifying benchmarks, information sharing, and regulatory compliance. To implement effective business intelligence strategy, it is important to have skilled investigators to help your company obtain the needed information while conducting a legal, ethical, and discreet investigation.

According to Thomas Lauth, owner and lead private investigator at Lauth Investigations International, business intelligence has become a necessary component of business management worldwide. “From a negative media campaign to competing for a contract, knowing who your opposition is and their political and media affiliations, marketing and internet campaigns, and even motives will give you the competitive edge” says Lauth. “The old saying, it is better to be safe than sorry, rings true."

About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s Missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adults in 2000. Kym has spent 20 years working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media. Kym is now a freelance writer and serves as an expert in the field of missing persons and victim advocacy.

Michelle Knight, removed by police from FBI database only 5 months after disappearance - Cleveland Plain Dealer Newspaper

What I uncovered sent shivers up my spine but worse, it is representative of a much larger national problem - the deficiencies that exist between  the way missing child and adult cases are handled. After verifying the information I had received, I was  forced to make a decision to do what I thought was right and notified the Cleveland Plain Dealer newspaper.

Michelle Knight prior to her 2002 disappearance

I was acting on a hunch and had no idea I would uncover a huge misstep in the investigation of the three Cleveland women. Michelle Knight, the oldest of the three Cleveland missing women who were all found safe last Monday, had been removed from the FBI National Crime Information Center database (NCIC) nearly 15 months after she vanished!

An error was made that could have gravely affected Knight's case early on. Rather than point fingers at the law enforcement agency that is understaffed, under-trained, and underfunded, I say this error falls upon each member of Congress and their failure to appropriate enough funding for law enforcement agencies throughout the country to carry out the functions of investigating missing person cases properly. Law enforcement throughout this country desperately needs quality training so mistakes are kept to a minimum, and most importantly a legislative mandate requiring a unified response to missing adults cases with every single case entered into the FBI NCIC as required for children. 

Congress funds efforts to find missing children in excess of $30 million annually! Not to mention organizations like NAMUS, Project Jason, Black & Missing, and the Cue Center to name a few, who desperately need funding so they may assist to meet the ever-increasing need for advocacy assistance. If you see a system for children works, model it, fund it, and  implement it for adults.

Congress,this is one mistake that can only be undone by each and every one of you putting yourself into the shoes of Michelle Knight's mother who searched for her daughter and distributed fliers ALONE - along with every missing person Michelle Knight represents. 

One more thing to those up on the Hill, after 15 years of listening to me plead and warn we are fighting a losing battle without your congressional support - PLEASE, DO THE RIGHT THING! 

Here is the Plains Dealer Newspaper article that explains what we discovered today. 

Michelle Knight, held captive since 2002, removed by police from FBI database 15 months after disappearance
http://www.cleveland.com/metro/index.ssf/2013/05/michelle_knight_held_captive_f.html

A special thank you to Cleveland Plain Dealer reporter Leila Atassi who took my call today and ran with it! Doing the right thing should be as easy for everyone as it was for her!

About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s Missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adults in 2000. Kym has spent 20 years working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media. Kym is now a freelance writer and serves as an expert in the field of missing persons and victim advocacy.

Robert K. Ressler - A Legend to those who fight monsters

Robert K. Ressler

Robert K. Ressler (02/15/37 - 05/05/13)

A former FBI Agent and Criminologist, Ressler is considered the granddad of "criminal profiling" at the Behavioral Sciences Unit at the Bureau and developed many of the programs that led to the creation of the FBI's National Center for the Analysis of Violent Crime. His contributions to this field have been numerous and immeasurable. 

~A hero, a mentor, and a Man who fought Monsters. ~ I devoured his books when I was younger and grew up to fight monsters too. My inspiration. Robert will be missed.

For additional information http://news.fredericksburg.com/justiceforum/2013/05/07/former-fbi-profiler-robert-k-ressler-has-died/

About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s Missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adults in 2000. Kym has spent 20 years working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media. Kym is now a freelance writer and serves as an expert in the field of missing persons and victim advocacy.

ABC affiliate WJRW News-Talk Radio Interview about the disappearance of Michigan resident Jessica Heeringa

I would like to thank Mitch McCoy and ABC affiliate WRJW Newstalk Radio in Michigan for inviting me to talk about the disappearance of Jessica Heeringa, and especially for the time you have dedicated to bringing the details of this case to the public. This is how lives are saved! Thanks again!

(Grand Rapids) -- 1340 WJRW spoke with an expert Monday night during 1340 News LIVE AT FIVE about how police investigate missing person cases.

Kym L. Pasqualini spoke to 1340 WJRW's Mitch McCoy. Pasqualini is the Founder of National Center for Missing Adults.

Click here to listen.

Women Missing and Murdered - Online Dating and Personal Safety

The day after Valentine’s Day of 2013, national news reports indicated a spike in new online dating memberships. Once somewhat frowned upon, looking for love online has become socially acceptable within the last ten years.

"It has been ten years since the New York Times declared it socially acceptable to meet your date on the Internet," wrote Ann Friedman in a 2013 article titled "Perils of Online Dating." According to Friedman, one-third of America’s 90 million singles have used online dating services. While some find love, get married, and live happily ever after, some have met with tragedy.

2011 Disappearance of Robyn Gardner Remains Mystery

Robyn Gardner vanished while vacationing in Aruba.

Maryland resident, Robyn Gardner remains missing after meeting Gary Giordano, 50, online. Robyn, 35, had met Giordano on an online dating site, developing a friendship prior to her disappearance on August 2, 2011, while vacationing in Aruba.

Robyn had considered Giordano a friend and even her close friends knew of Giordano as an acquaintance. Robyn accepted an invitation to travel to Aruba with Giordano where she mysteriously vanished while staying at the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino in Oranjestad. Her family continues to desperately search for answers.

When Giordano reported Robyn missing, he told authorities he had been snorkeling with Robyn off Baby Beach on August 2. He explained he tapped on Robyn's leg when he noticed the tide begin to pull them out to sea and proceeded to return to shore. Once on land, Giordano indicated he noticed Robyn was gone.

Weather reports indicate the waters off Baby Beach on the southeast end of the island of Aruba, to be mild the day of Robyn's disappearance.

When questioned by authorities, Giordano's answers failed to add up and his lack of concern apparent when authorities arrested Giordano. While the search was ongoing, Giordano attempted to return to the U.S. Police arrested at the airport.

Robyn's friends and family all agree that Robyn would never go snorkeling. Robyn's younger brother Andrew Colson told the Daily Mail, "she just wouldn't want to ruin her makeup or get her hair wet."

Gary Giordano met Robyn Gardner online.

Two days after Robyn's disappearance, Giordano contacted American Express (AMEX) regarding a $1.5 million life insurance claim. Giordano had taken out a insurance policy with American Express Travel Insurance that would pay upon the "accidental death" of Robyn. AMEX informed Giordano the policy was only in effect during the time they were in Aruba and there had not been a determination as authorities were still in the early stages of search efforts for a missing person. 

In June 2012, Giordano filed a suit in the Cook County Circuit Court against Chicago based AMEX Assurance for $3.5 million due to failure to pay on Robyn's life insurance claim. Robyn remains missing.

Looming Questions

• Why did Giordano tell Robyn's mother he would stay and assist with the search, then brusquely try to leave?
• Why did Robyn post portentous message, "This sucks," on her Facebook wall at 2 a.m.the day she vanished?
• Why did Giordano fail to show any worry or emotion in the days following Robyn's disappearance?
• Why did Robyn's Gmail account indicate she had been online for two days following her disappearance?
• Why did Giordano contact AMEX on August 4th, only two days after Robyn's disappearance and ask if the policy also covered search costs?

Witnesses that were approached by Giordano on the beach following Robyn's alleged snorkeling accident report the following:

• One witness reported Giordano had a cut on his throat similar to an injury one would sustain after being scratched by a fingernail.
• Another witness reports she saw blood on the beach.
• Yet another witness reported she noticed Giordano was sweating when he told her his girlfriend was lost while snorkeling but the witness said his shorts were not wet.

Robyn's disappearance remains a mystery and many questions raising suspicion of Giordano's connection, remain unanswered, however speculation points to Robyn Gardner as one of many people who have fallen victim to an online predator.

Tragedy Hits Home in Central Michigan

Leigh Swanson met her killer online.

November 30, 2012, Michigan law enforcement announced the body of Leigh Swanson had been found in the woods, approximately 10 miles northwest of Midland. Her cause of death was a fatal gunshot.

Swanson, 45 years old, had met a man on an online dating site according to her mother, Beverly Kane. Kane said her daughter had expressed that she had a "bad feeling" prior to going on the date. 

On November 18, 2012, Swanson called her mother from the man’s home indicating everything was fine and she would be home soon. She never arrived and at the time, no one knew whom she had gone on the date with.

After Swanson was reported missing, authorities traced the Swanson's call to a house in Edenville Township, dispatching deputies to the location. When deputies approached the front door, they heard a gunshot from inside. Ordering anyone inside to come out with their hands over their heads, a man exited the home holding a cell phone in his hand. The man had been on the phone with 911 reporting his son had just shot himself inside. Police later found Swanson’s body in a wooded area on a neighboring property.

While the positive stories about online dating far outnumber the bad, the harsh reality is that online dating can also put people at risk. Following are some tips that can help keep you safe.

Protect Yourself

• Always meet in a public place. Never invite the individual to pick you up from your home or accept an invitation to theirs.

• Use the online dating site email system to communicate. Remember, the more information you give out the easier you are to find. Even providing a private email address gives someone enough information to find out who you are and where you live.

• If you decide to meet personally, attempt to obtain as much verifiable information about the person prior to the meeting, such as name and phone number.

• Make sure you let someone close to you know who you are meeting, where you are meeting, and as much information about the person as possible. You can even have your friend call you during the date. This gives your friends and family peace of mind but also sends a clear message to the individual you are with that others know where you are.

• Do your homework. It is not unreasonable to conduct a background investigation on a potential mate and could lessen the danger to yourself and those you love.

• No matter how comfortable you feel with the person, never leave your food or drink unattended.

While I am not discouraging anyone from online dating, I do encourage you to take every precaution necessary to protect yourself. We must not permit tragedies or the lives of victims to be in vain.

About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s Missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adult, serving as CEO until 2010. Kym has spent 20 years working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media, to include expert appearances on CNN, MSNBC, FOX, John Walsh, Lifetime, Montel, and Anderson Cooper Live. Kym is now a freelance writer and serves as an expert in the field of missing persons and victim advocacy. Kym is currently Director at Missing Media Solutions. www.missingmediasolutions.com. 

Attention Women Leaders, Renew and Rejuve in Sedona with Team Summit, LLC!.

Team Summit is a premier leader in providing high performance team building and leadership development programs throughout the country. Based in Indiana, Team Summit was founded in 2004 by Chief Visionary Officer Ellyn Ludden, author of the book “Are You Sleep Walking Through Your Life”. Ellyn is a Master Executive Coach providing coaching, training, leadership development, and team building for companies like Pepsi Beverages Company, the Indianapolis Super Bowl XLVI Host Committee, Lilly, and the University of Indianapolis. In addition, Team Summit also provides personal and staff retreats.

It is no secret that personal and professional development require growth. Being an effective leader also requires challenging our teams and ourselves. Team Summit can help those in leadership roles, Chief Executive Officers in key management positions, and employees chart their journey to become a more cohesive, committed, and passionate team.

Enchantment Resort and MII Amo Spa in Sedona, AZ

March 28-31, 2013, Team Summit is offering a Renew & Rejuve retreat weekend at the award-winning Enchantment Resort in Sedona, Arizona. Known for the stunning views of Arizona’s Red Rocks, the Enchantment Resort is a luxurious resort with the finest dining, accommodations, and world renowned MII Amo Spa.

This will prove to be a life-changing event for those who attend. For women in leadership wanting to burst through a comfort zone, banish limited beliefs, and challenge yourself to see what you can accomplish when you set your mind and body to it – this is the event for you!

The weekend will include outdoor adventures, spa time, soul time, personal time, networking, and group sessions focused on creating the life you want, achieving balance and wellness.

Team Summit invites you to participate in this life-enhancing and transformative event and encourages you to bring your friends!

Spaces are limited so please register today!

$350.00 deposit

For more information, please visit Team Summit at www.teamsummit.biz. You may also call 1-800-313-4116 or contact smorwick@teamsummit.biz. Follow Team Summit LLC., on Facebook and Twitter.

Follow @TeamSummitLLC

When Elderly Go Missing - How to Keep them Safe

When we think of the missing, we commonly think of missing children. Daily we see the faces of children who are reported missing and their photographs shared among thousands on the Internet. How often do we think of missing senior citizens?

Courtesy Denver News Channel 7 - Missing Senior

According to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), at the Federal Bureau of Investigation, as of January 31, 2013, there were 85,081 active cases of missing persons in the United States. Of that number, there were 35,427 missing children cases ages 0-17 and 49,654 cases of missing persons ages 18-99. Lost within these statistics of missing persons are 12,066 cases of adults missing between the ages of 50-99. There are currently 7,890 individuals that are Unidentified, to include those found deceased or possibly hospitalized without identification.

When older adults go missing and reported to law enforcement, the majority face health related risks, and many suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. Keeping those suffering early stages of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can be a hard task. Like children, it only takes a minute before you realize they have wandered off. When seniors go missing, it can quickly turn into a high-risk situation. They not only become vulnerable to become crime victims, they face quickly succumbing to the elements. During winter when temperatures can be below zero in some areas of the country, during summer temperatures can reach extreme highs. Becoming a victim of exposure can happen very quickly.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, we can take preventive measures to help keep our loved ones safe. First, we recommended to enroll your loved one MedicAlert and Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return programs.

 1. Have a routine can provide structure when carrying out daily activities. Creating a Daily Plan can be very helpful. The Alzheimer’s Association offers online assistance by visiting Creating a Daily Plan.

 2. Try to identify the times of day your loved one may have a tendency to become restless, agitated, or experience anxiety. Plan activities and exercise during these times.

 3. Avoid busy places that could cause confusion and never leave your loved one unattended.

 4. Place exterior door locks out of the line of sight. You can place side-bolts at the top or bottom of the door.

 5. You can camouflage doors and doorknobs by painting them the same color as the walls, or use childproof knobs.

 6. Install a security system that alerts you when a door or window is opened.

 7. Keep car keys in a secure place.

 8. Keep a list of people to call for help and do not hesitate to call 911 if you find your loved one has wandered.

 9. Keep a recent close-up photograph and all medical information available.

 10. Consider utilizing a GPS device that can quickly identify their location.

In addition, we recommend registering yourself and your loved one with Next of Kin Registry (NOKR). NOKR is the central repository for Emergency Contact Information in the United States and 87 other countries. NOKR has recently collaborated with Microsoft HealthVault and is a free service that stores emergency contact information and provides free decals to place on your driver license or identification card.

Enrolling ensures the emergency contact information for anyone of any age that may become the victim of an accident, missing, a natural disaster, or other emergency incident, is available to law enforcement to aide in reunification. For more information, please visit Next of Kin Registry.

About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adults in 2000. Kym is considered an expert in the field of missing persons and has spent 20 years working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media. 

Former inmate Rusty Coone's life is epitome of inspiration

Courtesy of Attika 7

Here is inspiration at its finest! Having worked with women inmates, I have seen first-hand their loss of hope, the fear of stigma, and the difficulty obtaining employment once released. The fact is the public is too quick to write off individuals who have made bad choices.

Rusty Coones is the lead guitar player for Attika 7, owner of Illusion Motorcycles, co-star Quinn on Sons of Anarchy and yes, a former inmate. Rusty epitomizes hope, accountability, and success. During this interview he is asked by Eric Salas of Rock Thiz Magazine, if he would change anything in his life . . . his answer was no. He explains that  incarceration gave him an opportunity to learn about himself and apply the lessons learned resulting from his actions and the consequences. His experience and personal story has provided him the opportunity to positively impact the lives of others and the result of his incarceration. With an incredible perspective on life, Rusty looks at his experience in prison as having been an opportunity.

Offering hope and a different perspective to inmates so they can turn their lives "right-side up"  is what my program Life Corrections is all about. It also takes the public changing their perception. Watch and really listen to what Rusty has to say and take the opportunity to change yours. You just might look at those most of society has written off in a different light. <3

My note to Obama

President Obama,

Bob Levinson served our government for 30 years. He has been held hostage in Iran for 2,149 days. His life can be saved. 

It is time to walk the talk. There is no room for hypocrisy in the leadership of this country. Remember this, you are our leader, and "No Man" should be left behind!

Sincerely, 

Kym L. Pasqualini

Founder, National Center for Missing Adults

Benefits of hiring Homegrown Private Eyes

Life can suddenly change and you may find yourself facing a divorce, child custody dispute, cheating spouse, civil or criminal litigation. When life takes a sudden turn, it helps to kick a plan into action as soon as possible. The need for a private investigator arises, when we face the need to collect information that will be pertinent to the outcome of a case or verify information provided. Information must be collected professionally, efficiently, and within the boundaries of state and federal law and requires hiring a licensed private investigator, also commonly referred to as a private detective, private eye or PI. When hiring a private investigator it pays to know whom you are hiring.

Most every state in the U.S. requires an individual to complete a background check and obtain a license to be a private investigator but, in the few states where licensing is not required by the state, anyone can become a private investigator. Working with an inexperienced investigator can create significant liability to a client. Considering this, it is very important for a person to do their homework when hiring an investigator so you get the quality services they are paying for.

Private investigators offer an array of specialized services from background investigations, surveillance, computer forensics, and process of legal service, missing person and homicide investigations, criminal defense investigations and many more, while others specialize in a specific service. Regardless of the type of investigation, it is vital that an investigator be knowledgeable and compliant with state and federal laws that pertain to privacy, legal statutes in relation to medical and financial information, proper surveillance techniques, court procedure, and even victim’s rights.

A multitude of fee-based and free networks or associations are available on the Internet providing names of private investigators and private investigation agencies from state to state. These networks provide assistance in locating a private investigator specific to the service needed or in close proximity to the client, however these networks are not a regulatory agency, and many have no background information on the private investigator. While network services are beneficial and do simplify the search for a private investigator, sometimes network services can pose a problem when a client assumes they are hiring a reputable private investigator.  Many networks do not provide investigative services themselves and simply serve as an advertising service not liable for the actions or quality of services provided by those listed. Many networks are simply a marketing tool that only require the private investigator or firm to pay a monthly fee to be listed, and do not verify the private investigator’s “good-standing” with any state regulatory agency.
Due Diligence when hiring a local private investigator:

• Request a copy of licensing information and any associations the private investigator is a member.
• Request a specific list of services the investigator or agency provides.
• Contact your Better Business Bureau and state regulatory agency and inquire if there are any complaints on file.
• Ask if they subcontract work out to independent investigators.
• Request professional references from the investigator; references can include former clients, associates, and even law enforcement personnel.
• Ask to review investigative contracts and retainer agreements. Remember, a written contract protects both the client and the private investigator and identifies the terms of the agreement while minimizing misunderstandings and liability.

Hiring a local private investigator enables the client to have a “one on one” consultation in order to discuss the case, discuss work to be performed, review documents, and verify references. Another major benefit of hiring a local private investigator is the investigators knowledge of the area and critical to conducting an effective investigation.

Having connections is an absolute benefit to any investigation. Knowing the neighborhood, local companies, business owners, residents, and “those in the know” cannot be overstated. Obtaining information from a “trusted source” and gathering information in a discreet manner is more dependable if the investigator is familiar with the demographic and geographic makeup of the area. In addition, it is an assurance a client will receive more personalized service.

Thomas Lauth is a 20-year veteran investigator and owner of Lauth Investigations International headquartered in Indianapolis, IN with additional offices in Colorado and Arizona. Lauth has and his team of investigators has provided investigative services that include skip traces, background checks, private and corporate investigations, criminal defense investigations for the state of Indianapolis, child abuse, sex trafficking, and even high profile missing person investigations.

According to Lauth, the benefits of hiring a “homegrown” private investigation firm are immeasurable. “Most investigations and preparation for litigation creates an emotional environment for those involved,” says Lauth. “As licensed private investigators, it important to be dedicated and it is our duty to represent our clients with the utmost integrity and moral conduct so as not to add to emotional injury.”

About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adults in 2000. Kym is considered an expert in the field of missing persons and has spent 20 years working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media. 

Disappearance of Flagstaff (AZ) teens could be spurred by Jack Kerouac novel

Lauth Investigations

For Immediate Release

Contact: Thomas Lauth 317-954-1100

or Kym Pasqualini at kympasqualini@gmail.com

November 4, 2012 -  Joshua “Josh” Kinsolving and Madison “Madi” Baker, both 16-years old, left their homes in  Flagstaff, Arizona,on September 14, 2012. Both were reported missing to Flagstaff Police Department and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.com. Madi has Type 1 diabetes and did not take her medication with her. Authorities are concerned for the teen’s safety and both classified as Endangered Runaways in the FBI National Crime Information Center (NCIC).

The last time friends saw Josh and Madi, they were at Wheeler Park with some homeless people on the evening of their disappearance. From there the trail goes cold. The friends say one of the individuals was a “drifter” who goes by the name Joker, or sometimes Jester. The pair had backpacks and indicated they were heading to Las Vegas, Nevada. They could have also traveled to the coastal towns of California, Oregon, or Washington.

It is not uncommon for teens to dream of adventure and many easily lured onto the streets where they are at high risk of victimization. The lure for Josh and Madi seems to be even stronger as Josh has a love for the author, Jean-Louis “Jack” Kerouac. Kerouac was a popular novelist, often credited as being one of the forefathers of the hippie movement. His books such as “On the Road” and the “Dhama Bums” tell of his experiences with drugs, the homeless, poverty, and travel. Since Kerouac’s death in 1969, his literary prestige has grown and Josh’s interest in the author’s lifestyle may have been a contributor to the teen’s apparent decision to hit the road. Kerouac travelled everywhere with his notebook documenting his road experiences and it appears Josh and Madi may have left to experience the world, much like the author who he idealized.

The problem, the road is a dangerous place. When faced with no food or shelter children become easy prey to those with the intent to exploit them. Though the national scope of child sex trafficking is still uncertain, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), reports at least 100,000 children in the United States are trafficked each year. According to the FBI National Crime Information Center (NCIC), approximately 797,500 children under the age of eighteen are reported missing annually, calculating to nearly 2,185 children reported missing each day.

“It is imperative we find these children before something tragic happens,” says Kym Pasqualini, founder of Nation’s Missing Children Organization and the National Center for Missing Adults. Pasqualini now serves as an advocate and national expert on missing persons cases. “When kids are alone on the street, they are at extremely high risk to become the victims of crime.” 

###

Madison "Madi" Baker

Madison “Madi” Alexandra Baker

Endangered Runaway

DOB: 03/07/1996  Age: 16

Sex: Female              Race: White

Height: 5’5”             Weight: 120lbs

Hair:  Dyed black    Eyes: Blue

Date Missing: 09/14/2012

Missing From: Flagstaff, AZ

Flagstaff Police Department 928.774.1414

Joshua "Josh" Kinsolving

Joshua “Josh” Drew Kinsolving

Endangered Runaway

DOB: 11/25/1995  Age: 16

Sex: Male                  Race: White

Height: 5’10”           Weight: 140lbs

Hair:  Brown                        Eyes: Brown

Date Missing: 09/14/2012

Missing From: Flagstaff, AZ

Flagstaff Police Department 928.774.1414

About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adults in 2000. Kym is considered an expert in the field of missing persons and has spent 20 years working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media. 

Veteran victim advocate gives Arizona an "F" for assistance to crime victims

This is an Arizona crime victim's submission to Project Unbreakable (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YN_GQStLbM), a program to raise awareness for sexual assault victims so they can be heard.

The federal government and the State of Arizona is failing its crime victims! From the failure to get a family to safety despite recorded death threats, failure to acknowledge crime's impact on the family, failure to appoint a victim advocate, to failing to offer any services to help victims cope, rebuild, and heal in the aftermath.

This is just one family out of thousands. When they have already lost every sense of security and feel hopeless, the final crime . . . when SSA tells a parent they can't issue Emergency Presumptive Assistance as noted on their website at www.ssa.gov unless the parent can bring the child in and they can "visually" see the impairment, like Down's Syndrome. First, emergency assistance would not be needed if they didn't drag their feet 3-5 months reviewing medical records.

For anyone who doesn't understand trauma - please see the attached as it is self explanatory! Didn't anyone tell them YOU CAN'T SEE PTSD! This is why we lose more US veterans annually to PTSD than we do on all our battlefields combined (they have no statistics of casualties of PTSD caused by sexual assault and survivors of child sexual abuse). How many more casualties do we need to offer help to those suffering from an "invisible" but debilitating injury?

To the US Government and the State of Arizona - these are lives you are NOT saving!