Video of Lily Aramburo on AMW My Story

Young Mom Lily Aramburo Disappears
Lilly Aramburo has been missing since June 2007.

In the early hours of June 2, 2007, Lilly Aramburo left her boyfriend's apartment, never to be seen again. As her family and friends have told us, she would never leave her baby son behind on her own free will.

Now, they have turned to America's Most Wanted for help.

Lilly is described as friendly and always willing to listen and help a friend in need. A blog has been started, called Justice in Miami, to raise awareness about her case.

At 22, she was not without problems. She struggled with drugs, and may have found herself in a situation where people she knew did her harm.

Those who love her have great concerns about her not being alive when she left that house.

Private Eye Working To Find Lilly
Lilly's friends are desperate for answers in her disappearance.

Law enforcement sources say they know the last place she was seen alive, a private home on the street.

Those who love her have great concerns about her not being alive when she left that house.

A South Florida private investigator has received some great tips that have been passed on to Miami law enforcement.

Those that know Lilly think some people might be afraid to come forward. Lilly's loved ones want to know what may have been done to her.

Continue reading Lily Aramburo America's Most Wanted "My Story"

Lily Aramburo Case on America's Most Wanted Tonight!

Friends and supporters, I am so very excited to announce that Lily Aramburo is being featured TONIGHT (Saturday September 12th) on the 23rd Season Premiere of America's Most Wanted at 9pm (Eastern time).

Lily's case will be on AMW's "My Story" segment. "My Story" producer says it allows the loved ones of missing persons to submit video to America’s Most Wanted about their case, told in their own words. As the show is configured it will air 46 minutes into the show. For people that miss it, the show is always available at www.amw.com after the show airs.'

The video we submitted included shots of Lily's mom, Lucely, Private Investigator Joe Carrillo and his partner Ana Lanuza in front of the house we think Lily may have been last, which is in Coconut Grove, Florida.

I'd like to thank Kelly of Project Jason for her kindness and support. Kelly reached out to us and let us know that AMW (America’s Most Wanted) was working on adding more missing person case features into the show. She updated the Project Jason Forum with all the details for all the families of missing loved ones to see. Giving us strength with her words: "Remember, there is always hope........."

I've been working diligently to get media coverage for Lily over the last 2 years. It's been a real struggle. But it wasn't that difficult with AMW. They gave us an opportunity to reach out to the community for help. Please help us find Lily. Someone out there knows what happened. Please call AMW's confidential hotline at 1-800-CRIME-TV.

We are very grateful to America's Most Wanted for the coverage. THANK YOU so much! And thanks to all our friends and supporters. Thank you for caring, for keeping Lily in your mind and prayers. Never give up on her, someone knows something.

AMW's 23rd Season Begins Saturday Night

Missing Persons and Nonprofit Organizations on Twitter

Do you tweet? I began using Twitter right around the time my good friend Lily Aramburo disappeared, over two years ago. I knew I had to do something. As a Social Media Strategist, I used my know-how to start a blog, created a MySpace for Lily and Facebook Cause, and turned to Twitter to create awareness and to try to get media attention for Lily. I update my network daily, sharing news, Amber Alerts and all types of information related to missing person cases, not just Lily's case. My content comes from all over the web. My twitter handle is @yogini

Social networking sites such as Twitter, Facebook and MySpace can be very effective in the search for missing children and adults. But Twitter is not a broadcast-only medium. It is a community. Sharing, retweeting and commenting is very important.

Help support the families of those missing one tweet at a time. One Follow or Retweet may help bring a missing person home!

Here's a list of missing persons and support organizations for families of the missing that tweet:

@FindJennKesse

Project Jason @Project_Jason

National Center for Missing Adults @NCMissingAdults

America's Most Wanted @1800CRIMETV

• @HelpfindBridget
• @JusticeForDavid
• @FndLauraNimbach
• @ICareMissing
• @LostNMissing
• @instantamber
  
• @HelpFindMyChild
• @everybodysafe
• @amberalerttweet
• @people_missing
• @vigilforhope
• @savemychild
• @NVChildSeekers
• @KIDNAPPEDorg
• @MissinginCalif
• @CanUidentifyme

You're invited to join the Twitter group for Amber Alerts and news related to Missing Persons. All you have to do is post an update about a missing person and add the tag #missingpeople to your Tweet.

If you're using Twitter to raise awareness for a missing person or if you Tweet for a nonprofit organization supporting missing persons; please leave a comment with your Twitter handle.

You have the power to get people involved and ultimately generate new leads and public interest for a missing loved one.

Voice for the Missing

"Project Jason, A Voice for the Missing"

New Tool to Locate US Missing Persons Online

Attention Miami Dade Police, City of Miami Police, US Law enforcement, medical examiners, coroners, victim advocates, volunteers and families of missing persons:

There is an incredible online tool, the U.S. Department of Justice's National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs). This online tool allows you to search records of missing persons and unidentified human remains (recovered throughout the country) in an effort to SOLVE CASES. Anyone can search the national database using characteristics such as sex, race, body features and dental information. If you have a missing loved one, MAKE SURE to have their information listed on this FREE database! NamUs has already begun solving cases!

Washington Post article, The NamUs System

"There are perhaps 40,000 sets of unidentified human remains held by medical examiners and coroners across the country, according to government estimates. A patchwork of record-keeping policies govern the related data.

With that in mind, the Justice Department has created the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), a searchable database of "unidentified decedents," in hopes of matching remains to missing persons, an estimated 100,000 of which exist in the U.S. at any given time.

The more information in a NamUs profile, the more likely a match can be made. NamUs has created a five-star rating system indicating how much information is in a file, a hint at how likely it might be that the remains can be identified."

Early in 2009, I submitted my friend, Lily Aramburo (missing from Miami, FL since June 2007) into NamUs. All the information we had on Lily (including pictures of Lily and her tattoo) was entered; except for Lily's dental records and NCIC number, which we did not have. Lily Aramburo NamUs profile


In February, while searching the database, I got a match for skeletal remains found in Broward County, FL. I got in touch with the Medical Examiner's Office and they made contact with law enforcement in Miami Dade. Soon they had the two DNAs compared and were able to get a quick turn around time regarding the results. The University of North Texas and the F. B. I. both had mitochondrial DNA profiles already established. Therefore, based on their unidentified decedent’s profile and Lily's mom’s profile, the labs came to the conclusion that it could not possibly be Lily.

A short time later, I was contacted by Tony, the Regional System Administrator at NamUs. He said his goal was to make Lily's file as complete as possible to enhance a resolution. He offered to help get Lily's NCIC number, as well as working on contacting Lily's dentist. Thanks to Tony we were finally able to acquire Lily's NCIC number! The National Crime Information Center number for Lucely "Lily" Aramburo is M497579638. (For some reason, law enforcement didn't want to share it with us.) We are grateful to Tony and the caring staff at NamUs. Everyone has been polite, cooperative and willing to go out of their way to help.

Everyone NEEDS TO KNOW about NAMUS. Law Enforcement and Medical Examiner’s need to know about NamUs. Please make sure to help spread the word!

Recommended reading:

New Path To Restore Identities Of Missing

Names, the missing matched on NamUs

14 years later, missing Va. boy ID'd via national tool

Families of the missing can search from home

Filming for AMW "My Story" on Lily Aramburo

In an effort to bring awareness to the disappearance of Lily Aramburo, our team got together yesterday to shoot a video for America's Most Wanted "My Story".

"AMW gets hundreds of letters each month from viewers who are seeking justice. Often, AMW is their last hope and the letter they send us might be the most important they have ever written. Like each writer, every My Story is different. Yet they all share a common bond — the search for justice."justiceinmiami.org, America’s Most Wanted: My Story, Jul 2009

(Photo courtesy of Joe Carrillo) Here is Lilly's mother, Lucely (left) and me (right) standing in front of the house where Lily was last seen in Coconut Grove, Florida.


Private Investigator Joe Carrillo and his partner Ana Lanuza.


Lucely asking the residents of Miami and Coconut Grove for their help. If you know anything at all about the disappearance of Lily Aramburo, please report your tip to law enforcement or place a call to Private Investigator Joe Carrillo at 305-926-3110.

Lindsey Baum and Jaliek Rainwalker are Missing, You can Help!

The latest episode of The Missing features the cases of Lindsey Baum missing from WA and Jaliek Rainwalker missing from NY state. Please take a moment to watch the video.




Please help raise awareness for these missing children by sharing this video with your friends and social networks. Together we can make a difference!..

Help NCMA Support Missing Adults

The National Center for Missing Adults (NCMA) needs volunteers! State Advocates are needed to:

1. To support their individual state in the advocacy of the Federal Bill HR 632 by setting a meeting with their US Senators and Congressional leaders to promote passing of the legislation through the US Senate.
2. To interact and communicate with other parents of missing adults and family members, provide them support and resources in their time of need.
3. To promote the action of building a grassroots base of volunteers and supporters in each state to bring awareness of missing adults.
4. To build a charitable base of donors and contributions by interacting with other community entities such as churches and other institution, social services, corporations, other community and faith based organizations.
5. To assist in the organization of a planned trip to Washington DC in July or August of 2009 and conduct a meeting with US Senators in promoting HR632 and support of the legislation.
   

The NCMA needs state advocates in the following states:

Alabama-AL
Arizona-AZ
Arkansas-AR
California-CA
Connecticut-CT
Delaware-DE
District of Columbia-DC
Hawaii-HI
Idaho-ID
Indiana-IN
Iowa-IA
Kansas-KS
Kentucky-KY
Louisiana-LA
Maine-ME
Massachusetts-MA
Mississippi-MS
Missouri-MO
Montana-MT
Nebraska-NE
Nevada-NV
New Hampshire-NH
New York-NY
North Dakota-ND
*Oklahoma-OK
Oregon-OR
Rhode Island-RI
South Carolina-SC
South Dakota-SD
Vermont-VT
West Virginia-WV
Wyoming-WY

They especially need supporters in Oklahoma to write letters, make calls, or have an office visit with Senator Coburn. If you are interested in becoming a state advocate, please contact:

Thomas Lauth at Tel. 800.690.3463 Ext. 1 or Kym Pasqualini at Tel. 602.749.2000 Ext.102

Provide your Name, Address, Phone or Email address and their volunteers will contact you.

If you tweet, please show your support by following the National Center for Missing Adults at @NCMissingAdullts.

2 Years Ago Lilly's Life Changed Forever

Lily's case remains unsolved but our resolve to find her is unwavering. We remain strong, focused and working very hard to find answers.

Sunday, May 31st, 2009, we had a Justice March and Candle-light vigil to mark the 2 year anniversary of Lily's disappearance. Lily's family, friends and supporters met at Cocowalk. We put on our white T-shirts, held signs and passed out Lily's missing person posters. It was a cloudy day with bits of rain (Maybe the reason why media didn't show?) but there was plenty of traffic and movement in the Grove. I felt sick at heart watching Lily's mother, Lucely that day, and Lilly's elderly grandmother with Lilly's little boy, Palden sitting innocently in his stroller.

Lucely, Lilly's mother


About an hour later we marched through the streets of Coconut Grove, five blocks to the location where we held the vigil; steps away from where we believe Lily's life was taken. We didn't know what to expect. But as our group approached 3440 Percival Ave, a City of Miami police officer arrived and parked his police car down the block. He was friendly and cooperative and stayed until the end.

Night began to fall. Lucely said a few words and thanked everyone for their support and prayers, (I tried my best to translate) candles were passed out and Lily's grandmother said a prayer. Afterward, we had a balloon release with the help of Palden, Lilly's 2 year old son. He released purple balloons and said "I love you mom" and "we miss you". He's a big boy now and is well aware of Lily's absence.

On behalf of Lily's family and friends please accept our heartfelt thanks to each and every person who came out and shared this moment with us. I would like to thank Private Investigator Joe Carrillo, whose continued efforts and commitment we're so grateful for. Thank you for caring and keeping her case moving forward! Thanks to everyone who has helped in the fight to find Lily. (Including my Twitter friends, Facebook community!) Thank you to each and every person, who continues to visit this blog, your messages of encouragement and prayers give us strength during this very difficult time. We are forever indebted to you.

Please check back as we update information. Your continued support is critical to bring Lilly home! We will not let Lily's story go away. Together we will find our missing loved ones!

Thank You Miami Herald Crime Scene Blog!

Candle vigil to mark young mother's disappearance to be held in Coconut Grove

From Lily

Lucely "Lilly" Aramburo, 25, was last seen June 1, 2007.

She is the mother of a two-year-old boy named Palden, and has a history of drug abuse and mental illness.

Her mother Lucely Zalvidar told a New Times reporter that while growing up in Miami she had run away from home, and had made attempts to commit suicide .

Local activists are organizing a candle vigil at 6 p.m., on May 31st, at 35 Percial Avenue, in Coconut Grove to mark the two year anniversary of her disappearance. More information at the Justice in Miami blog.

Thank You Coconut Grove Grapevine!

Vigil and March planned for missing Lucely Aramburo

There will be a candlelight vigil and silent march tomorrow, to commemorate missing mother, Lucely “Lily” Aramburo on the two year anniversary of her disappearance.

On June 1, 2007, Lilly Aramburo, 23, left her ex boyfriends house in the middle of the night, never to be seen again. The Miami Dade Police Department’s detectives failed to interview Christen Pacheco, Kelly Starling, and “EJ” who were present when Lily disappeared.The march will start at 6 pm at CocoWalk, tomorrow, May 31. The march will go to 3440 Percival Avenue.

Francisco Alvarado, of the New Times, was the first to report on the disappearance last September.More info on the vigil and march at the Justice in Miami Blog.

Thank You Frank Alvarado and Miami New Times!

Two Years Later: Lilly Aramburo Remains Missing
By Francisco Alvarado
Friday, May. 29 2009

It has been close to a year since I wrote my cover story about Lilly Aramburo, a 24-year-old single mother and drug addict who disappeared from her boyfriend's apartment June 1, 2007. Today, there is still no trace of her, but friend Janet Forte presses on with her social media crusade to find out what happened to Aramburo.

There has been some progress. Joe Carrillo, a private investigator who helped Miami Police nab the Shenandoah Rapist, volunteered to help Forte track down leads. On a recent afternoon, Carillo met with me to give an update on his investgation, which he is doing free of charge.

A former bodyguard for Latin boy pop band Menudo, Carrillo stands over six feet tall and has a gleaming bald head à la Kojak.

He informed me he believes Christen Pacheco, Aramburo's boyfriend, had nothing to do with her disappearance. "He was telling the truth when he said Lilly left his apartment after they got into an arguement," Carrillo notes.

Carrillo says he interviewed two of Aramburo's friends, who told him about a house at 35 Percival Ave. in Coconut Grove, at the time a known flop house where Aramburo and her pals smoked crack. Carrillo says he recieved another tip that Aramburo, after leaving Pacheco's apartment, went to that house where she was allegedly killed by three individuals she knew, including a drug dealer who has a murder conviction.

I've chosen not to disclose their names until I've had an opportunity to verify Carrillo's claims.

Carrillo says he provided the names of the three men to Miami-Dade Police detectives investigating Aramburo's disappearance on four occassions. "They haven't done squat," Carrillo says.

This Sunday at 6 p.m., Forte will lead a march from CocoWalk to 35 Percival Ave., where she will hold a candlelight vigil in Aramburo's honor. 

Justice March and Vigil for Lily Sunday in Miami

The South Florida community and local media is invited to join us this Sunday for a Silent March and Candle light Vigil for Lilly Aramburo. Please see the media alert below.

MEDIA ALERT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, 29 May 2009

Candlelight Vigil and Silent March to commemorate missing mother, Lucely “Lily” Aramburo on the 2 year anniversary of her disappearance

(Miami, Florida, May 29, 2009) On June 1, 2007, Lilly Aramburo a single mother 23 years of age left her ex boyfriends house, a known heroin user, shortly after 2 AM never to be seen again. The Miami Dade Police Department’s detectives failed to interview Christen Pacheco, Kelly Starling, and “EJ” who were present when Lily disappeared.

Only after an article in the Miami New Times in September 2008 was Christen Pacheco interviewed. A private investigator who volunteered to help in Lily’s disappearance has developed a theory that Lily lost her life the night she disappeared in a crack house in Coconut Grove. The investigator has had 4 meetings with the Miami Dade Detectives providing details of the location as well as suspects in Lily’s disappearance/murder. To this day, the Miami Dade Police Department has done nothing to solve the case.

This Sunday, May 31, 2009, we will hold a vigil commemorating the second anniversary of Lily’s disappearance. The vigil will be held at the location where it is believed she lost her life. Names and details of the suspects in the case will be provided in the hopes that someone in the Coconut Grove community will come forward with information. Six months have passed since this information was provided to the Miami Dade Police Department with no results.

Come join us to commemorate and pray for Lily and her family.
Sunday, May 31st, 2009 at 6pm

The march will begin in Cocowalk to
3440 PERCIVAL AVENUE, COCONUT GROVE, FL.

Information about the vigil can be found at the following websites:

• http://justiceinmiami.blogspot.com

• http://blogs.miaminewtimes.com/riptide/2009/05/two_years_later_lily_aramburo.php

• http://miamiherald.typepad.com/crime_scene/2009/05/rally-to-be-held-for-young-mother-missing.html

Candlelight Vigil and Silent March for Lily Aramburo's 2 Year Anniversary

Community to Hold a Silent March and Candle light Vigil for the 2nd Year Anniversary of Lilly Aramburo's disappearance.

What: Justice for Lily Candlelight Vigil and Silent March
When: Sunday May 31st at 6pm
Where: 3440 Percival Ave Coconut Grove, FL 33133 Map
Why: It's been exactly 2 years since Lilly vanished. We need to find Lilly and we need the person(s) responsible to be brought to justice!

Sunday May 31st, the South Florida community is invited to attend a candlelight vigil and silent march in memory of my friend, Lilly Aramburo, a young mother missing from Miami since 2007. Beginning at 6pm (Eastern time), Lilly Aramburo's mother, Lucely will lead the crowd in a Justice for Lilly silent march in front of the house it is believed Lily may have lost her life.

The purpose of the silent demonstration is to grab the public’s attention for a short time on the two year anniversary of Lilly's disappearance to make everyone aware that Lilly is still missing, and we are still looking for answers. We understand that Lilly isn't the only loved one that's missing. There are many missing persons in South Florida and thousands across the country. We are remembering them and their families on this special occasion, as well. Anyone with a missing loved one is urged to attend the event and bring a photo or flyer to share. Let us stand together in solidarity.

Family and friends will peacefully deliver a powerful message to Miami Dade Police Department that Lilly deserves justice, she deserves to be found. Lilly has not been forgotten by her family and friends and she shouldn't be forgotten by the community where she lived. We'd like to see Miami Dade Police take meaningful action. Please show your support by joining Lilly's family and friends. Help us seek JUSTICE FOR LILLY!

I realize few of you (loyal readers) live in the Miami area, if you are unable to be there in person, we ask you to have Lilly in your thoughts and prayers while the vigil is going on. Please join us in spirit by lighting a candle for Lily (where ever you are). But to those who live in South Florida, we'd love the chance to see you in person to thank you for your support and commitment to finding Lilly these past 2 years. Although it will be a very hard day for all of us, spending it together will help us heal in a small way.

Visitors are welcome to bring a candle to light for Lilly but it is not required. Please RSVP via Facebook or if you're on Twitter, you can RSVP below.

Media is encouraged to attend.

We'd like to give very special thanks to Anita Hunt of Nita Joy Craft Design and author of "Are You Being Bullied" for creating the lovely flyer pictured above. Nita, you're a star, thank you for your generosity! Nita graciously volunteered after responding to my tweet. (Pictured below ~ Note: read from bottom to top)


Nita's reply was a complete surprise. As you can see, the exchange was short and sweet. A few hours later, the flyer was done. It was that easy and carefree. So, if it's a personalized greeting card or gift you need to help brighten someone's day, please consider Nita Joy Craft Design. If you tweet, you can follow Nita on Twitter.

And finally, I'd like to thank Staples for donating flyers for Lilly. Thank you, Staples!! We appreciate all of your support.

Help us spread the word. Pass on the link to this post, tweet it, invite your friends on Facebook and email your network, if you have a blog inform your readers. We need your support now more than ever.

Hope to see all of you on Sunday, May 31st!

Mayor's Take 25 Children's Safety Event in South Florida

South Florida friends, I have great news to report. Well, actually it's an event I'm very excited for.. I'm happy to announce that Miami Mayor Carlos Alvarez is hosting a Take 25 Children's Safety event for National Missing Children's Day! Check out the details below and if you're in Miami on May 20th, please swing by and show your support. I'll be there with my children and I hope to meet you and yours!

What: Mayor's Take 25 Children's Safety Event
When: 5/20/2009 2:00:00 PM – 5:00:00 PM

Where: Mas Canosa Center, 250 SW 114 Avenue
Sweetwater, FL 33174

Get directions

Details: This event will provide daycare children and afterschool program children with safety demonstrations, hands on interaction with police and fire personnel to discuss the importance of children's safety, and an educational puppet show that will emphasis child safety tips. In addition, Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez will hold a press conference to heighten awareness about children’s safety issues, with a focus on prevention and encouraging parents, guardians, and other trusted-adult role models to spend time talking to kids and teaching them ways to be safer.

For more information contact: Suzanne Salichs at (305) 375-1216.

Parents, don't miss this excellent opportunity to teach your children about safety!

Missing Children Cold Cases

Host Scott Davis of  The Missing TV looks back over decades to help gain exposure for missing children whose cases have little to go on.

Thank You Enrique and Joe!

As some of you already know, this past Monday April 20th, Lucely (Lily's mother), Joe Carrillo (our private investigator) and I went on the world famous morning radio show "El Show de Enrique y Joe". We had the opportunity to inform and appeal directly to the South Florida community for information about the disappearance of Lilly Aramburo. A big warm hug to Joe Carrillo, the best private investigator in Miami, for his help in making it happen!

Pictures Courtesy of Joe Carrillo

Enrique and Joe ~

Lucely and I want to thank you for letting us be guests on your show. It was a real honor. We are very impressed with all the thought and organization you put into your shows.Your energy and passion was so inspiring and positive.You made it so easy and so comfortable for us. We really appreciate your willingness to educate your listeners about the disappearance and possible murder of Lily Aramburo, a Miami native and young mother who's case remains unsolved. The world needs to know about this. Lily's case hasn't been featured on the local news yet. We really thank you for having us on as guests and devoting so much valuable time on your show to cover this topic. I know your listeners were concerned enough to do their own research. Thank you so very much!

Sincerely,

Janet
Family Spokesperson for missing person Lilly Aramburo
Site http://justiceinmiami.blogspot.com/
Social Media Strategist at Subliminal Pixels Lab
Site http://www.subliminalpixels.com/

Listen to EL SHOW DE ENRIQUE Y JOE for Latest Update on the Lilly Aramburo Case!

That's right, folks! Monday morning, April 20th (tomorrow) tune in live to EL SHOW DE ENRIQUE Y JOE on 98.3 in Miami at 8am. I will be on the show along with Lilly's mother, Lucely and our good friend/private investigator, Joe Carrillo to discuss the latest developments in Lilly Aramburo's case. We need your help and support now more than ever!!

Lilly was reported missing almost 2 years ago. We believe she lost her life the night she disappeared. Our investigation reveals that she lost her life in Coconut Grove at the hands of a convicted murderer and his accomplices. We have handed the Miami Dade Police Dept. the information over 4 months ago and to this day NOTHING has been done to bring her killers to justice. We need the communities help to pressure law enforcement to do what we pay them to do! Listen to 98.3 FM Monday morning beginning at 8 AM for the latest developments in Lilly's case. Remember, tune in to 98.3 FM Monday at 8 AM and feel free to call in with your questions or comments. The phone number is 1-888-305-SHOW.

Click here for more details ~ You can also listen online here.

ENRIQUE Y JOE SHOW...The high-profile and outlandish radio personalities Enrique Santos and Joe Ferrero have repeatedly broken sales and audience records and maintained as the number 1 radio show in Miami and one of the most popular Hispanic programs in America. The pair's bilingual broadcasts are a crossover hit of humor, social satire and political commentary that bridges cultural and generational divide. Santos (a former police officer) bid for City of Miami mayor last election, running against incumbent Manny Diaz and winning nearly a quarter of the vote. Enrique along with radio veteran Joe Ferrero have made Miami Radio history and are internationally known for their phone pranks to Venezuela's Hugo Chavez and Cuban Dictator Fidel Castro.

El Show de Enrique y Joe on Myspace

Read more about the insanely popular morning show, El Show de Enrique y Joe.

Missing Denver Child found thanks in part to the internet!

For those of you who may have doubts about the power of social media (specifically Twitter) please read on. And to those of you who use Twitter, next time you see a missing child or missing person alert, please consider re-tweeting it.

The following article is written by Mari Kurisato from the Denver Examiner.

After nearly a week of being missing, Jennifer Frisina was found safe and returned home to her family, due in large part to efforts like the folks who submitted comments in the original Examiner.com story, Facebook, Twitter, and other internet outlets to raise awareness and keep the pressure on. Even as commenters in the story were asking if this was a hoax, I phoned Arapahoe County Sheriff Investigator Lieutenant Curti looking for Bruce Isaccson to confirm the story. He confirmed the story, and thanked me for my interest, stating that he would get back to me when he knew anything further. Through no fault of his own Lieutenant Curti didn't get back to me until later that day, but he did call. Though efforts were spreading across the internet, I can only write about what I knew happened. (UPDATED: I'm getting several reports that many others than listed here helped contribute to the effort. This includes @AlohaArleen and @NashvilleDebbi amongst others. This list is by no way inclusive of everyone who helped, just the indiviuals that I saw in the busy rush of events yesterday.) Coordinating with the efforts of other Twitters, including @SoulGeek, @BuzzEdition, @TheExpert @AbsolutelyTrue and most crucially Denver's own @Zaibatsu, Reg Saddler, people were able to saturate the social media service and catch the attention of CBS 4 News Denver, via @cbs4denver who broadcast the story on the 5 o'clock news yesterday. CBS 4 Denver reporter Terry Jessup reported on that report that the Sheriff's Office “did receive an unusual amount of what he (the investigating officer) called 'blogosphere calls' at the Arapahoe County Sheriff's office” The alerts continued for some time on Twitter. And then at 7:33pm, Linda Frisina, the family spokesperson and Jennifer's grandmother, sent this last night via email: She's been found...details to come I called Linda soon after and got an exhausted confirmation--Linda sounded like she had been fielding calls from the whole planet, and maybe she had been. So I hopped back on the Twitter service, and flashed this out to everyone who had been helping send out the alerts JUST RECIEVED EMAIL FROM LINDA FRISINA THAT JENNIFER FRISINA HAS BEEN FOUND. NO DETAILS YET. which I then forwarded to CBS 4 News' Assignment Editor Misty Montano who was able to confirm the story and get an update on their 10 o'clock newscast. If anyone had any doubt what role services like Twitter, Facebook, and other internet outlets are playing in cooperative news telling, this story may cast aside some doubt. And because it began with Frank Frisina reaching out, I thought I would let him have the last word, taken from an email sent to me at 3:38 AM: SHE IS HOME! SAFE AND UNHARMED!

To read the full story, go to:

Denver Internet Examiner: Missing Denver child found thanks in part to the internet

Missing Child Alert: 14 Year Old Jennifer Frisina Missing from Denver, CO

URGENT Alert! Missing 14yr Old Girl

A 14 year old girl in Colorado has been missing since Saturday April 11, 2009. Jennifer is 14 years old (5/5/94) approx 5 foot 5, 120/130 pounds. Brown hair / Brown eyes. Pictures are available on website.

If you have any information about Jennifer, please contact Frank Frisina (Jennifer's uncle) at http://lifesabluff.com/2009/04/15/my-14yr-old-neice-is-missing/ And if you use Twitter, please follow @frankfrisina for updates.

Frank wrote the following in his blog:

"I was really hoping I would never have to write this here…..

My niece Jennifer has been missing since Saturday night. She left here at 3pm to go to a friend’s house and was to be home by 8. None of her friends have talked to her since 7pm that night and there is no sign that she ran away. No clothes.. no cell phone charger.. nothing to suggest that she had any intention of being away that long. She has never been more than an hour or so late and this is beyond her character. There was no trouble here and she was in a good mood when she left.

It took us a few days to get the police to take this seriously since the responding officer on Saturday night had her pigeon holed as a runaway from the start. Thanks to that moron we have lost precious time. Now we have the Colorado Bureau of Investigations involved and they are trying to get phone records quicker than I seem to be able to get them. We would have had them already but CBI needed the Arapahoe County Sheriff to upgrade from runaway to missing. The next step is to get her picture on the local news stations.

I cannot describe the torment we are all going through. My worst nightmare has come true…. The idea of seeing her picture on the news is something I don’t think I could ever be prepared for. If anyone would like to donate the cause, please send via paypal to frankybones@comcast.net - (* should no reward be issued…. monies will be returned.) If I get some of this other cash I waiting on, it will be added.

I have never needed the help of our readers more than now. Please take her pictures and info posted here and send out to your social networks.

For those of you who know me… know these kids are my life. I am the legal guardian of both my neice and nephew. I consider them my children and have dedicated my life to their happiness. I have always been there to make sure they had a father figure and someone to count on. I am living pure hell and each day that passes is killing my soul. I have been through too much to be burdened with more heartache. This has gotta be resolved soon… I would give my life to bring her home.

One thing that is getting harder to do is handle all the phone calls from concerned friends and family…. The constant updates are wearing me down so I will be posting here any major updates we have. You can also follow my twitter account.

That’s all I have for right now…

Jennifer… if you are reading this… I love you more than you will ever know and you are my best friend in the world… nobody is mad at you… mom is here too.. come home…"

- Frank Frisina

Please help spread this information via social networks, blogs, and any other way you can!

Missing Child Alert Cancellation for Derrick Herlong

Missing Child Alert CANCELLATION
Derrick Herlong Jr.

Missing From:   Kissimmee     

County:   OSCEOLA

Narrative: This is a cancellation to the Florida MISSING CHILD ALERT that was activated on 4/13/2009 for Derrick Herlong Jr. This message is to let you know that the case has been resolved and the child has been located. FDLE has no further information about the recovery/location at this time.

FDLE Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse
1-888-FL MISSING
http://www.fdle.state.fl.us

Missing Child Alert Cancellation for Tatiana Jordan

Missing Child Alert CANCELLATION 

Tatiana Jordan

Missing From:   Melbourne,FL     

County:   BREVARD
 

Narrative: This is a cancellation to the Florida MISSING CHILD ALERT that was activated on 4/13/2009 for Tatiana Jordan. This message is to let you know that the case has been resolved and the children have been located. FDLE has no further information about the recovery/location at this time.

FDLE Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse
1-888-FL MISSING 

http://www.fdle.state.fl.us

Missing Child Alert for 8 Year Old Florida Girl Tatiana Jordan

MISSING CHILD ALERT 

TATIANA JORDAN ENDANGERED

Date Missing:    4/12/2009
Missing From:   Melbourn     
County:   BREVARD
Birth Date:    11/30/2000     
Age Disappeared:    8 yrs 4 months
Race:    White/Hispanic
Sex:   Female
Height:     4' 00"
Weight:   85
Hair:   Brown
Eyes:   Brown

Narrative: A Florida MISSING CHILD Alert has been issued for Tatiana Jordan, a white/hispanic female, last seen in Melbourne wearing a pink pull over shirt, white shorts and pink sandals. The child was last known to be in the company of her mother, Sylvia Hernandez, who is a white/hispanic female, 31 years of age, 5 feet 03 inches tall, 250 pounds, brown hair, brown eyes. They may be traveling in a purple Toyota Corolla, Florida tag number 475KSV.

Companion Adult: SYLVIA HERNANDEZ

Date Missing:    4/12/2009
Missing From:   Melbourn     
County:   BREVARD
Birth Date:    7/30/1977     
Age Disappeared:    31 yrs 8 months
Race:    White/Hispanic
Sex:   Female
Height:     5' 03"
Weight:   250
Hair:   Brown
Eyes:   Brown

If you have any information concerning the whereabouts of this child, please contact the Brevard County Sheriff's Office at 321-264-5201 or call 911.


FDLE Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse
1-888-FL MISSING
Internet: http://www.fdle.state.fl.us

Missing Child Alert for 2 Year Old Derrick Herlong Jr.

MISSING CHILD ALERT

 DERRICK HERLONG JR. ENDANGERED 

 

Date Missing: 4/13/2009
Missing From: Kissimmee 
County: OSCEOLA
Birth Date: 12/18/2006 
Age Disappeared: 2 yrs 3 months
Race: Black
Sex: Male
Height: 2' 05"
Weight: 029
Hair: Black
Eyes: Brown

Narrative: A Florida Missing Child Alert has been issued for Derrick Herlong Jr. last seen in the area of Clipper Cove Lane in Kissimmee. The child may be in the company of Derrick Herlong Sr., a black male, 25 years old, 5 feet 07 inches tall, 150 pounds, black hair, brown eyes. They may be traveling in a newer model dark blue Chevrolet Malibu FL Temporary Tag ADG6905. Caution suspect may be armed.


Suspect: DERRICK HERLONG
Date Missing: 4/13/2009
Missing From: Kissimmee 
County: OSCEOLA
Birth Date: 5/25/1983 
Age Disappeared: 25 yrs 10 months
Race: Black
Sex: Male
Height: 5' 07"
Weight: 150
Hair: Black
Eyes: Brown

If you have any information concerning the whereabouts of this child, please contact the Kissimmee Police Department at 407-847-0176 or call 911.

FDLE Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse
1-888-FL MISSING
Internet: http://www.fdle.state.fl.us

Missing Person Alert: 22 Year Old Laura Nimbach from Florida

HAVE YOU SEEN LAURA NIMBACH?

Pay close attention, especially if you live in Florida. Laura Nimbach is MISSING and possibly in DANGER. Here is what we know: No one has had any contact with Laura since February 17th, 2009 and her family is terribly worried. Laura's family does not live in Florida. They believe Laura had an abusive boyfriend. Laura was last seen by local police walking down the street after leaving a domestic violence shelter in Clearwater, FL. There has not been any media attention. But Laura is MISSING. And we need to find her before it's too late.

Help is desperately needed to help find this young woman. Fliers need to be placed in local business', bus stops, hospitals, shelters, churches, grocery stores, post offices, bars, restaurants, airports, places where NA meetings are held, and especially in the Tampa Bay area. Time is of the essence. Laura had been hospitalized in November, 2008 with kidney and heart failure. She may have still have medical problems as a result of this. She has a substance abuse problem and if she’s still alive, she’s in a horrible situation.

Print a poster: http://www.projectjason.org/aan/AAN_LauraNimbach.pdf

Name: Laura Nimbach
Alias: Lora Marie Nimbach, Laura Marie Numbach, Laura Marie Nimback
Date of Birth: 08/26/1986
Date Missing: 02/17/2009
Age at time of disappearance: 22
City Missing From: Clearwater
State Missing From: FL
Gender: Female
Race: White
Height: 5 ft 6 in
Weight: 105 lbs
Hair Color: Brown
Hair (other): May be very light blond
Eye Color: Brown
Complexion: Tan

If you have any information regarding the disappearance of Laura Nimbach, please contact the Pinellas County Sherrif's Office at (727) 582-6200 or dial 911.

Investigative Case #: SO09-71009

For additional information on Laura's case, please visit Project Jason and Help Find The Missing. If you use Twitter, please follow @FndLauraNimbach.

Amber Alert Cancelled for Florida Missing Child Sarah Norton

AMBER ALERT CANCELLATION

SARAH NORTON
Missing From: Bradenton, FL

County: MANATEE

Narrative: This is a cancellation to the Florida AMBER ALERT that was activated on 3/29/2009 for Sarah Norton. This message is to let you know that the case has been resolved and the child has been located. FDLE has no further information about the recovery/location at this time.

FDLE MISSING ENDANGERED PERSONS
INFORMATION CLEARINGHOUSE
1-888-FL MISSING
http://www.fdle.state.fl.us

Amber Alert Issued for Florida Child SARAH NORTON

AMBER ALERT ENDANGERED CHILD

Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has issued an Amber Alert for a 12 year old Florida child Sarah Norton (Pictured above). Sarah Norton was last seen around 10 a.m. Saturday. Norton is 5' 3" tall with brown hair and brown eyes. She wears glasses. She was wearing a gray sports bra, jeans and no shoes. Please keep your eyes open for this child who may have been kidnapped by an older man, described as being 45 to 50 years old. They may be traveling in a red Jeep Cherokee, see details below.

SARAH NORTON
Date Missing: 3/28/2009
Missing From: Bradenton,FL

County: MANATEE
Birth Date: 11/30/1996

Age Disappeared: 12 yrs 3 months
Race: White
Sex: Female
Height: 5' 03"
Weight: 093
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown

Narrative: Sarah Norton was last seen at approximately 10am yesterday in the area of 75th Street West and Manatee Avenue West in Bradenton. She was last seen wearing a gray sports bra, jeans, no shoes and wears glasses. She may be in the company of an unknown white male, 45-50 years old and wears glasses. They may be traveling in a red Jeep Cherokee.

If you have any information concerning the whereabouts of this child, please contact the Manatee County Sheriff at 941-747-3011 or 911.

. FDLE Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse 1-888-FL MISSING Internet: http://www.fdle.state.fl.us

Additional links:
Amber Alert issued for Missing Bradenton girl
Amber Alert for Missing Bradenton Girl

Invitation to Imagine Miami's Changemaker Summit

I'd like to invite my local readers to an exciting event in South Florida. It's unusual for me to blog about events unless it's somehow related to a missing person but this post is special.

The Imagine Miami Changemaker Summit is being presented by the Human Services Coalition and Imagine Miami. The Human Services Coalition (HSC) is a local non-profit organization that adopts and shares new, innovative approaches to community change. The summit will focus on Arts, Culture and Civic Engagement featuring hands-on workshops with National and Local experts. If you're an activist, volunteer, philanthropist, nonprofit organization or just someone who cares about Miami Dade, this is THE event you don't want to miss.

This totally Green gathering will bring together civic, community and grassroots leaders, emerging leaders from lower-income neighborhoods; community capacity builders from nonprofit, government, education and other sectors; and artists for social change to make a difference.

WHAT: Imagine Miami's Changemaker Summit

WHEN: Saturday, April 04, 2009 8:30 am - 5:30 pm (Eastern Time)

WHERE: Miami-Dade College, Wolfson Campus (Rm. 3210)

NE 4th St. between Biscayne Blvd. & NE 2 Ave.

Bldg. 3, 2nd Fl (Chapman Conference Center)

Miami, FL 33132

What You’ll Learn:

• How to Start a Community Conversation
• How Your Story Can Inspire Action
• How to Tackle a Community Challenge By Building On What Works
• How Local Groups Turned Their Passion Into Action

You can register for the event here. For more information, please call (305) 576-5001 ext 45, or email: corinnam@imaginemiami.org. The cost for the summit is $45 in advance or $60 at the door. Space is limited so register now to reserve your space.

I've already purchased my ticket. If you're interested in attending the event and would like to meet there, please let me know by leaving a comment on this post. I'd love to connect with you.

Until next time, stay safe! And don't forget to Subscribe to my feed to ensure you don’t miss any news or updates.

Missing Children and Take 25 Campaign

May 25th is National Missing Children's Day . Events are being scheduled across the country to raise awareness about the importance of safety and as a reminder of our nation's missing children . The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children's Take 25 Campaign asks parents to take 25 minutes of their day to talk to your kids about safety.

National Missing Children's Day is around the corner. It's a perfect opportunity for law enforcement, public servants, advocates and volunteers to give back to the community. We all know violent crime (kidnappings, sexual assault, car jacking, murder) are a daily occurrence. Every day thousands of children are reported missing. Many are never found. Many of the kidnappings/abductions end tragically in rape, assault and death.

I'm pleased to announce that we will be hosting one of these events for the 2nd year anniversary of Lilly Aramburo's disappearance, to coincide with National Missing Children's Day in South Florida. Lilly went missing June 1, 2007 from Miami, FL. She is still missing. More about Lilly Aramburo.

More information about the upcoming safety awareness event coming soon. If you'd like to help out with the organizing/promoting of this event, please contact me or leave a comment on this post (or any post). If you're a family member of a missing person and would like your loved one featured on our missing persons wall, please contact me or leave a comment. We'd like to partner up with local residents who care about the safety of our children and loved ones, as well as any like-minded organizations. Together we can make a difference.

If you’d like to connect with me on Twitter my feed is here. Please share this blog to help raise awareness about Lilly and other missing loved ones. Don't forget to Subscribe to the Justice in Miami feed to ensure you don’t miss any news or updates.

Thank You New Mexico Lt. Governor Diane Denish!

I am very happy and proud that New Mexico's Lt. Governor Diane Denish is taking a stand for missing persons and their families. Finally, a politician is doing something positive for the cause. A lot more need to follow her example. But she needs everyone's support to make important changes happen. Watch the video and read all about it below.

Question: Do you think law enforcement should have a national protocol in handling missing person cases? Why or why not?

Denish calls for missing-person alerts
Mesa graves spur call for action

Reporter: Maria Medina

Web Producer: Bill Diven

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - The uncertainty linking dozens of missing women with remains unearthed from Albuquerque's west mesa shows more needs to be done when someone disappears, Lt. Gov. Diane Denish said Tuesday.

"Let's be frank about this," Denish told KRQE News 13. "This is mostly women who go missing and are not found, and that's really what caught my attention.

"I grieve along with all the other people in New Mexico not just for the families but for New Mexico. I think we can do better."

She's called a meeting for Friday to bring law enforcement, the media and other organizations together to talk about solutions.

Liz Pérez said she could've used more help when her daughter-in-law went missing. Nearly eight years ago Darlene Trujillo dropped her son off with Perez.

She said she was going on a quick trip to Arizona, but she never returned.

"(The police) said that they would file a missing persons report but that they couldn't really do nothing on it because Darlene was over 18 years old," Pérez said.

Trujillo is not one of the four women who investigators have identified so far from the west mesa graves. Forensics experts have said the remains are those of Victoria Chavez, Cinnamon Elks, Julie Nieto and Michelle Valdez.

All four young women disappeared in 2004, and all shared trouble in their lives involving drugs and prostitution. Eight sets of skeletal remains have yet to be identified, and investigators have yet to name any prime suspects in the case.

Denish said she doesn't want to hear about limitations adding that she thinks a lot more can and should be done to publicize missing persons cases quickly.

Missing Person Alert: Shanna Maschmeier

Where is ALLYSON CORRALES and TANGENA HUSSAIN?

Here's another episode from the good people at TheMissingTV, featuring the cases of Allyson Corrales and Tangena Hussain. Both beautiful little girls are missing.

Tangena Hussain has been missing since 10/02/08. The 2 year old toddler disappeared from a gas station in Detroit, Michigan under mysterious circumstances.She was last seen wearing a brown long sleeved shirt with a cartoon character on the front, white cargo pants, and gold sandals. ANYONE HAVING INFORMATION SHOULD CONTACT: Detroit Police Department 313-596-2300 or National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST).

Allyson Corrales has been missing from her residence in Kansas City, Missouri, since March 6, 2009. She may be in the company of her father, Luis Corrales. A felony warrant has been issued for Luis. Allyson's mother was found deceased on March 6, 2009. Allyson's life is in serious and immediate danger. They may travel to Manassas, Virginia or Houston, Texas. ANYONE HAVING INFORMATION SHOULD CONTACT: Kansas City Police Department (Missouri) 1-816-474-8477 or National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST) .

Please pay close attention to the posters and photographs of missing children. Be aware and stay vigilant. You never know when your observation could make a difference. A missing child is everyone's responsibility. It's a community issue. If you're a parent or caretaker, make sure to do everything in your power to safeguard your children from predators and those who seek to do them harm. Make child safety a priority!

• Search the National Sex Offender Public Registry at www.nsopr.gov.

• Use age-appropriate activities to teach children ages 5 to 17 how to stay safer on the Internet with http://www.netsmartz.org/.

• Take 25 minutes to teach your children about safety (online and off). Minutes of prevention can make a huge impact in the life of a child.

Where is Teekah Lewis and Melisa Sloan

Just found this channel while looking at my YouTube subscriptions. TheMissingTV is a video show which features cases of missing children and adults. I applaud their efforts and dedication to missing persons. Check out their website at http://www.themissingtv.com/




This episode host Scott Davis visits two cold cases. One is that of Teekah Lewis she was a 2 year old toddler when she was reported missing from a Tocama, WA bowling alley on 01/23/93, she is 12 years old now. He will also introduce to you the case of missing adult Melisa Sloan, reported missing from Orlando, FL in 1994 she was 23 years of age when she was reported missing.

Missing Child Alert for Jacoysha Horne Cancelled

MISSING CHILD ALERT
CANCELLATION
JACOYSHA HORNE

Missing From:   Winter Springs, FL    
County:   Orange
Narrative: This is a cancellation to the Florida MISSING CHILD ALERT that was activated on 03/11/2008 for Jacoysha Horne. This message is to let you know that the case has been resolved and the child has been located. FDLE has no further information about the recovery/location at this time.

FDLE Missing Endangered Persons
Information Clearinghouse
1-888-FL MISSING
http://www.fdle.state.fl.us

Missing Endangered Child Alert Issued For Jacoysha Horne

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has put out a missing child alert for a teenage girl from central Florida. 16-year-old Jacoysha Horne was last seen in the area of the 150 block of Cory Lane in Winter Springs, FL. She may be in the company of 2 Hispanic males, one whose name may be "David". They may be traveling in a large silver or gray SUV. One of the subjects may have a yellow patch on his right shoulder. Another vehicle that may be involved is a green Volvo with a New York tag on the front. The direction of travel is unknown at this time.

Date Missing: 3/11/2009 Missing From: Winter Springs,FL

County: SEMINOLE
Birth Date: 3/10/1993

Age Disappeared: 16 yrs Race: Black Sex: Female Height: 5' 09" Weight: 165 Hair: Black Eyes: Brown

If you have information about this child, please contact the Winter Springs Police Department at 407-327-1000 or 911.

FDLE Missing Endangered Persons
Information Clearinghouse 1-888-FL MISSING
Internet: http://www.fdle.state.fl.us

Austin Davis Missing from Jacksonville, FL Since June 2007

Michael "Austin" Davis, age 26, has been missing from the Argyle area of Jacksonville, Florida since June 26, 2007. He was suffering from depression. It is devastating when a loved one goes missing. But to learn about the purchase of a shot gun? Not easy to deal with at all. Let's hope someone comes forward with information. Take a look at the video below. It's Austin's sister, Anita describing the circumstances surrounding Austin's disappearance.

Austin Davis

Last Seen June 26th, 2007
DOB: 04/24/81
Height 5' 8" / Weight 180 lbs.
Brown Hair/ Blue Eyes
Scar on right cheek / Dimples Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL, October 18, 2007 – Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has released information regarding the disappearance of Michael “Austin” Davis, 26, from his Westside home on the morning 0f June 26, 2007.

“We now know,” said Anita Sullivan, sister of the missing man, “that Austin’s mysterious taxi ride ended at Jax Jewelry and Pawn Shop at the intersection of 103rd Street and Blanding Boulevard around 12:30pm on June 26th.

JSO has confirmed Austin bought a shotgun there and the clerk said he put the gun in a duffle bag and left the shop on foot. "We have searched the area but found nothing”. “The pawn shop clerk said the gun barrel was protruding from the duffle bag when he left the shop. As busy as that area is midday, we think it is likely someone saw him and would remember something as unusual as a young man walking on Blanding or 103rd with a gun in a duffel bag”, the missing man’s sister said.

“We are hopeful someone will come forward, possibly with information regarding his direction of travel and help us target other areas to search”, Anita Sullivan said.

Anyone who may have seen a man walking with a duffle bag on the afternoon of Tuesday, June 26 in the area of Blanding Bvd. and 103rd Street, which includes Wesconnett Blvd., Timuquana Road, Jammes, and surrounding areas, is urged to step forward.

He may have been walking in any direction, and may have been seen on side roads up to several miles away from the intersection. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.

IF SEEN Please Contact:
JSO Missing Persons Unit 904.630.2627
Family: 904.446.0740

For the full story please visit the Find Austin Davis Website.

Article: Help Find Austin Davis

Article: Family Continues Search for Missing Man

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/findaustindavis

Austin Davis America's Most Wanted

This case pulls at my heart strings because Austin disappeared in June 2007, just like Lilly. The family has been waiting for answers as long as we have. The month of June will never be the same for us.

Thank You Miami New Times!

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the Miami New Times for including our blog, Justice for Lilly Aramburo on their local blog links. We are very grateful to the Miami New Times Blog for linking to us! Another reason we love the Miami New Times. First, Francisco Alvarado writes the only article ever printed about Lilly, a cover story published last September and now this. It's a very big deal and I'm extremely humbled.

If you use Twitter, please be sure to follow the Miami New Times.

By the way, let's keep our fingers crossed for a follow-up article on Lilly Aramburo's disappearance. Feel free to help make it happen by contacting the Miami New Times directly.



As always, we appreciate the ongoing support we have received from everyone. Please continue to spread the word about Lilly's disappearance. And help us bring her home!

National DataBase for Missing and Unidentified Persons NamUs

Is your missing loved one registered in the The NamUs Database?

The Justice Department has unveiled a computer database that will help families locate the bodies of lost loved ones. Families, law enforcement agencies, medical examiners and coroners, victim advocates, and the general public are encouraged to register their missing loved ones with The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), the first national repository for missing persons and unidentified decedent records. NamUs consists of two databases that anyone can search. The Justice Department hopes that law enforcement officials and the public will use the databases to share information to solve cases.Feb 2009
Let's just hope law enforcement start to use it. Families deserve closure.

Read more about NamUs
National site helps ID remains, Find the Lost

Florida Missing Child Haleigh Cummings

5-year-old Haleigh Cummings was snatched from her own bed just after 3am, February 9th, in a mobile home in northeast Florida. The girl's parents are divorced. She was being watched by her father's 17-year-old girlfriend when she disappeared. The Putnam County Sheriff's Office said investigators think Haleigh was abducted because house-to-house searches of the neighborhood Wednesday found no evidence that she wandered away. Haleigh's father, Ronald Cummings also said he didn't believe she had left their home in the middle of the night. "I know somebody took her. I know for a fact she didn't wander off. She's afraid of the dark," Ronald Cummings told several reporters.

It's been 9 days since Haleigh vanished. The ground search has subsided and police are focused more on the investigation at this point. Some of her family members were given lie detector tests but the sheriff's office won't discuss the results. Almost 1,200 tips have poured into a Crimestoppers hot line. One of those tips claim that Haleigh's father's girlfriend, 17-year-old Misty Croslin, may not have been at home the night Haleigh disappeared.

Authorities ask anyone with any information to call Crimes Stoppers at 888-277-TIPS or the FDLE's Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse at 888-FL-MISSING.

If you pray, please keep Haleigh Cummings and her family in your prayers.

Latest news about Haleigh's case:
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,495384,00.html
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29236594/
http://www.gainesville.com/article/20090218/ARTICLES/902181008/1002/news?Title=Police-follow-leads-in-missing-girl-case#
 

The Search for Missing UF Student Tiffany Sessions

February 9, 1989, 20 year old University of Florida student, Tiffany Sessions told her roommate she was going for a jog and never returned. That was the last time anyone ever saw Tiffany. This week marked the 20th year anniversary of Tiffany's disappearance from Gainesville, Florida.


Earlier this week, Alachua County Sheriff's Office announced new leads in the case. Tiffany's father, Patrick Sessions, a Miami resident and dedicated missing children advocate told the Miami Herald he does not expect to find Tiffany alive. He just wants closure.

The Sessions Family launched the “Official Tiffany Sessions” Website, http://tiffanysessions.com/. Anyone with information can leave an anonymous tip. It's also a resource for other families coping with the disappearance of a loved one.

The Sessions family is offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to the remains of Tiffany Sessions and the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for her abduction. Anyone with information about Tiffany's disappearance should call Detective Bob Dean at the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office at (352) 367-4161. Callers can remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest by calling Crime Stoppers at 372-STOP (7867). Anonymous tips can be left on the web site at http://www.alachuasheriff.org. Please help this family get closure.

One of the most devastating events that can happen to a family is the disappearance of a child. Can you imagine the agony this family has suffered for 20 long years? Think about it. Almost a lifetime of not knowing what happened to your child, your flesh and blood! The not knowing is simply torturous. If you know anything at all about Tiffany's disappearance, please come forward and help this family get the answers they've been waiting for.

In most likelihood, Tiffany is probably gone. Her family may never have the chance to see her smiling face and get to hold her in their arms again. But her name and memory lives on.

Last year, the Florida Legislature passed Senate Bill 502, the “Jennifer Kesse and Tiffany Sessions Missing Persons Act.” Governor Charlie Crist signed the bill, which broadens the authority of FDLE’s Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse to provide assistance on investigations involving missing adults younger than 26 and missing adults age 26 and older who are suspected by law enforcement to be in danger.

"In addition, the Act requires that local law enforcement authorities transmit missing child and adult reports to the state and federal criminal databases within two hours of receiving the report. The local law enforcement agency investigating the case must also attempt to obtain a DNA sample if the child or adult has been missing for more than 90 days. These DNA profiles will be analyzed and uploaded into the FBI’s National DNA Index System and continuously searched against unidentified human remains."

What a huge leap for missing persons in my hometown state of Florida! Just a year ago, if someone over 18 went missing, law enforcement could easily say the missing person has every right to disappear. The law didn't require police to do much. Having dealt with the disappearance of my friend, Lilly Aramburo, I can tell you that the Jennifer Kesse and Tiffany Sessions Missing Persons Act is of immense benefit to missing persons! And an ode to Tiffany.

Website: http://tiffanysessions.com/
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/tiffanysessions

Additional links:
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/894835.html
http://www2.tbo.com/content/2009/feb/09/091828/20-years-later-family-still-searching-tiffany-sess/

The 17 Year Search for Abducted Child Sigourney Chisholm

Sigourney Teresa Chisholm is missing. She was abducted by her mother, Patricia O'Byrne May 1993. Patricia is wanted for child abduction. Sigourney is 17 now. Her grief-stricken Dad, Joe Chisholm, has been searching for his daughter for 17 long, painful years. But he's not giving up!

Age-enhanced

From Joe Chisholm's blog:

"Sigourney was abducted by her non-custodial mother, Patricia Joan O’Byrne, on May 17, 1993 from Toronto, Ontario. Patricia, also goes by the name Trish or may be using an alias. On the 15th of May 1993, following a custody dispute with the father, O’Byrne left a message stating that she was leaving the country with her daughter, Sigourney. Patricia is wanted on charges of child abduction; there is a warrant for Patricia’s arrest. Abduction is a crime, even if the child is your own. The only consideration of the Chisholm family now, however, is to be reacquainted with Sigourney. The family treats this not as a legal or criminal matter, but as a family dispute – a solvable family dispute. They have been traced to London, Tunbridge Wells, Kent and Devon. It is believed they could be in Spain now."

Help this family reunite! Visit the website for more information http://www.missingsigourney.com

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/sigourney_is_missing

Help Save the National Center for Missing Adults

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Who would you turn to if your loved one went missing? The Police? The mainstream media? If that was your answer you have a rude awakening coming to you. Police departments are either way too understaffed, un-educated or just focusing on high profile cases. If your missing loved one was over the age of 18, police may say they have every right to "disappear". And the media, you can forget about it, unless your loved one falls into a certain category like Caylee Anthony or Natalie Hollaway, then you're probably not going to have any luck getting any attention or help from them.

Thankfully, for 15 years there has been the National Center for Missing Adults. The NCMA is a division of the Nation's Missing Children Organization, Inc. (NMCO) a 501c(3) non-profit organization, formally established after the passage of Kristen’s Law (H.R. 2780) by the United States Congress on October 26th, 2000. The NCMA operates as the national clearinghouse for missing adults, providing services and coordination between various government agencies, law enforcement, media, and families of missing adults. NCMA also maintains a national database of thousands of missing adults determined to be "endangered" or otherwise at-risk in the US. But not for long.

Since 2005, NCMA has been waiting for Congress to reauthorize Kristen's Act to provide the funding so crucially needed to continue its work. Due to its failure, the country's only national clearinghouse and missing adult database is in such extreme distress some believe only a miracle can save it. NCMA founder, Kym Pasqualini and her small staff of less than 5 volunteers, have kept the agency alive despite many difficulties including critical shortage and loss of funding, in 2006 they were

"financially forced to vacate and close the doors of the facility they had operated from for nearly ten years"

and going 2 years without pay and mounting debt, in order to continue providing services to those in need. Time is dangerously close to running out for NCMA. To make matters even graver still, Kym (a single mother) is facing eviction.

This doesn't seem right to me. Not for anyone but especially not for Kym and the National Center for Missing Adults! The loss of the NCMA would mean no more support for families of the missing!

How can this happen?

Days after Hurricane Katrina devastated the gulf coast region, Bureau of Justice Assistance; United States Department of Justice (DOJ) requested the immediate assistance of the National Center for Missing Adults. In the weeks following, NCMA received 13,502 reports related to Hurricane Katrina and Rita, in addition to cases normally registered with the agency involving missing adults who are determined by the investigating law enforcement agency to be "at risk" due to diminished mental capacity, physical disability, medical conditions, suspected foul play or suspicious circumstances of the disappearance. NCMA resolved 99.8% of all reports with costs to the agency in excess of $250,000 and depleted the agency's non-federal reserve of funds. NCMA has only received $50,000 to cover the work they did at the request of the Dept. of Justice. The DOJ still hasn't released the funds owed to the NCMA for their work related to Hurricane Katrina.

We cannot allow this valuable resource to die.

I feel strongly about this as my own friend, Lily Aramburo, went missing and has been gone for almost 2 years now. Following Lily's disappearance, I contacted NCMA. Tanya, the volunteer who assisted us, was working from home on these cases because of the agency's funding situation. Despite these obstacles, she was comforting, professional and understanding. She was steadfast in her efforts contacting law enforcement in order to get Lilly's case confirmed and didn't stop until she finally succeeded. I've had the privilege of working with Kym and her faithful team of volunteers. I admire them for their selfless efforts on behalf of our missing loved ones and the families who are left behind, searching for them.

My goal is to show Kym that people do care, we recognize their work is valuable. The NCMA doesn't need to wait for a MIRACLE...

It's within our power to save the National Center for Missing Adults. I urge you to stand with me and help in any way you possibly can. What can you do to help, you ask?

First and foremost they need money! Click on the FirstGiving fundraising widget below and visit my NCMA Fundraising Page Tax-deductible donations can be made online safely and securely through FirstGiving.

The NCMA accepts donations on their website as well. You can give as little as $5 using Google Checkout. Or if you prefer to send a check directly to NCMA, please mail to:

National Center for Missing Adults
PO Box 6389
Glendale, AZ 85312 US

If you commit to giving just $5 (the cost of a Starbucks coffee) we would be that much closer to achieving the goal.

If you can't give money, no problem. Maybe someone you know can. Please share this post via your email list and IM.

Do you use Twitter?

Follow the NCMA! Share this post and ask your friends and followers to retweet it (Join the NCMA RT RALLY starting NOW!).

Are you on Facebook, Myspace, Ning, or other social networking sites?

On Facebook, support the NCMA by setting your status to display a short message with a link to this post. Join the NCMA Facebook Group and invite everyone you know. Use your social networks to spread the word! You can get your very own fundraising widget or badge to add on your profile and encourage others to do the same.

Do you have a blog or website?

There are several ways to help by using your blog/website:
1. Place the FirstGiving Fundraising Widget or badge on your site
2. Take a few minutes to write a post about the crisis, link to this and include the NCMA donation page
3. Add the NCMA badge on your site

I hope you take this opportunity to turn your compassion into action by donating to Help Save the National Center for Missing Adults...prevent thousands of families and missing people from being negatively affected and losing their only national resource. You can also help tremendously by signing the Support the National Center for Missing Adults petition.

Here's an article about Kym Pasqualini and NCMA recently published in the Phoenix Times, "The National Center for Missing Adults' Funding Was Slashed by the Feds, but Volunteers Are Keeping It Alive" By Sarah Fenske.

Don't forget to bookmark, Stumble and share this post. RT on Twitter. Link to post. Share on your social networks and most importantly... GIVE GENEROUSLY & SPREAD THE WORD!

Lilly Aramburo and Missing Minorities Campaign

Dear friends, I was recently surprised to find Lilly Aramburo listed on a site called Missing Minorities Campaign. How awesome! It's a great site and very helpful for the benefit of missing minorities. As we all know, missing minorities rarely make the news. And if they do, they don't receive the same type of in depth coverage. (God knows how hard I've tried to get media coverage for Lilly!) But with sites like Missing Minorities Campaign and others using the internet to advocate for missing people, the more eyes we have looking out for our loved ones and the better chances we have of finding them.

Although most of us live very busy, sometimes hectic lives, a little time and effort goes a long way. You'd be surprised to know how easy it is to help. As I always do when I find a website, blog or organization doing good works, I stumbled their site, bookmarked it and shared it on Twitter and a few other networking sites and aggregators like Friendfeed. And it really helps! After reading the stories of the missing people on the Missing Minorities site and others, it's very helpful to DIGG or STUMBLE the story or share on whatever social network and news submission sites you use. I joined their community, as well. After all, that's what social networking is all about: community.

One last thing, if you use Twitter, please follow the Missing Minorities Campaign.

Appeal to Miami Residents For Info in the Possible Homicide of Lilly Aramburo

In 6 months, it will mark the 2nd year anniversary since Lilly Aramburo was last seen by family and friends. The night was June 1, 2007, at approximately 2am. She walked out of her live-in boyfriend's condo after a heated argument and has never been seen alive since.

Lilly's family is asking the public for help. If you know anything at all or have information regarding the disappearance of Lucely "Lilly" Aramburo, Lilly's mother, family and friends urge you to contact Miami Dade Police at 305-418-7200 or Crime Stoppers at (305)471-8477. (You can get a cash reward of up to $1000!) It offers complete anonymity. Lilly may have walked to the bus stop or to the Metrorail Station which is very near to Dadeland Mall. She may have traveled to the Coconut Grove area.

DO YOU KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO LILLY?






Chances are you've probably never met Lilly but if you did, you would understand why we're so determined to find her. Lilly was a girl of peace, a young mother who loved her baby boy very much. She was a humble person and good friend who touched everyone she met with her beautiful smile. She had the energy of a small child. It is a shame that this had to happen. And that her disappearance has remained unnoticed, while the media arbitrarily picks and chooses who they find important.

She loved music, and although she loved rock, oldies were secretly her favorite songs. She loved to read and write in her journals, but refused to learn computers. She was a very simple girl, who shopped at vintage stores, and hardly ever wore much make up. The term earth girl, comes to mind when I think of her. And pixie, as well. People would often confuse her with being a teenager because she looked so damn young. Lily was tough as steel, both emotionally and physically. Once she fell off a 2nd story building at the University of Miami campus. She went to the hospital and walked out, took the brace off and kept going, because she had to be at work the next day.

When she was pregnant with her son (now 2 years old), she glowed. It was the most amazing time in her life. The loveliest I had ever seen her. Her skin looked a golden olive, and her almond shaped eyes, glistened. I could see life in her. And she was truly happy and hopeful, looking forward to the birth of her son.

I thought she would make it. She began taking prenatal yoga, went back to being a vegetarian, and was dedicated to meditating and praying a lot. We had no idea of what was to come. Almost 2 years later, and we're still awaiting answers. Every day Lilly's mother wakes up thinking about Lilly and what could have been. It must be so painful for her to raise her grandson, Lilly's 2 year old son, while praying for the day when Lilly is found and finally put to rest.

We have reason to believe Lilly is a victim of homicide but many questions remain unanswered. And that is why we're asking for your help.

We’re currently trying to piece together Lilly's last movements. Anyone with information which could assist police with their investigations should immediately contact Miami Dade Police at 305-418-7200 or Crime Stoppers at (305)471-8477.

If you feel compelled to help find Lilly Aramburo, there are many ways you can help. Please do so by doing one or more of the following:
Friend on Myspace http://www.myspace.com/missinglillyaramburo
Join the Facebook Cause to Find Lilly Aramburo
Subscribe to the Justice in Miami RSS feed
Please Stumble, bookmark & share this post
If you're in South Florida, print a flyer and post and share it as much you can.
If you're a blogger, join the MyBlogLog Justice in Miami Community

Lily's case has received very little media coverage. So far, the only article published about Lilly's disappearance was in the Miami New Times last September. As you can see, Nancy Grace was kind enough to feature a Case Alert about Lilly, as well. Can you help us get media coverage for Lilly? Contact Nancy Grace and ask her to investigate Lilly's possible homicide. We'd like Lilly to be featured on local media stations in Miami. Please let us know if you can help with this. Drop me a line or leave a comment on this post.

Lilly's family and friends are grateful for your prayers and continued support. Let's bring resolution to this grieving family.

Last Day to Vote for National Protocol for Missing And Unidentified Person Cases

Reminder: Today is the last day to submit your vote to Establish National Protocol in Missing and Unidentified Person Cases through Change.org's Ideas for Change in America. If you haven't added your vote, please do so now, time is running out! The first round of voting for the Ideas for Change in America competition will end tonight, December 31 at midnight Pacific Time. All you have to do is click on the widget below and sign in or register (it's easy) and vote!

Establish National Protocol in Missing and Unidentified Person Cases

Every 30 seconds someone in the U.S. disappears, an average of 850,000 persons per year. Of that number, approximately 105,000 remain as open cases, unresolved. There are also unknown numbers of unidentified deceased persons, with estimates as high as 50,000. With modern technologies, available resources and tools, more cases could be resolved. With law enforcement budgets slashed, available training and knowledge of these tools and resources remain out of the grasp of many agencies. Cases go unresolved, family members remain in pain needlessly, criminals go free, and the unidentified deceased are buried and even cremated, taking the answers with them, sometimes forever. The Department of Justice crafted model legislation which would give law enforcement, coroners, and medical examiners the necessary protocol and tools to correct this injustice. Efforts have been made to pass this legislation on a state by state basis, but this process has proven to be slow. Each day that passes without these procedures in place increases the number of missing persons who may never be recovered, and unidentified deceased persons who might never be named. The legislation provides law enforcement with a check list of information to acquire from the family of the missing person, databases and other resources to utilize, such as DNA analysis, and the new NamUs. Coroners and medical examiners are given procedures to report the unidentified deceased, and enter all available identifiers into national databases, such as fingerprints, dental records, and DNA analysis. The text of the legislation can be found here:
http://www.projectjason.org/downloads/ModelLegislation2008Revision.pdf

Important Petition Requires Your Immediate Attention

The abduction of Sean Goldman happened 4 years ago but his father, David Goldman has not given up on his son. He wants him back and he needs our help. For more information about this case, please visit his website Bring Sean Home. Check out these videos below. And if you're like me, prepare to cry. This is a tragic story and desperately needs media attention and help from the US government. Please help this father get his son back by signing the petition.





Add your name to this petition and help bring Sean home where he belongs!
Direct link: http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/return-abducted-minor-sean-goldman-to-his-father
Bring Sean Home Website: http://BringSeanHome.org

Tribute to Lilly Aramburo

There's never a day where thoughts of Lilly are far away. Listened to some of her favorite songs by the Magnetic Fields today... Somehow makes me feel better when I'm down. I remember the times we sat in my car as I drove her home, listening to music. She loved music. I could see her sitting next to me, smiling. As a tribute to Lilly's loving memory, here are a few of her favorite songs. The ones I listen to and reminisce...

The Magnetic Fields - All My Little Words


The Magnetic Fields - The One You Really Love


Sublime - Waiting For my Ruca


RIP Lilly Aramburo. Justice will be done. Words can't describe how much we love you and miss you! xoxo

Missing Baby Update: It Was All A Lie

Talk about waste of time and resources! I can't understand why someone would make up such a drastic lie just to cover up a miscarriage. Police are saying it was a desperate attempt to fix a broken relationship. Nearly 20 detectives worked the case during Christmas Eve and Christmas. Now police want McCormick to pay for the resources that were used in the search.

clipped from wbztv.com Police: Missing Baby Story Was A Hoax The search in Florida for a missing toddler with ties to Massachusetts has been called off - because it was a hoax. Miami police had been looking for help in their search for 6-month-old Riley Buchness, who was reportedly last seen by his mother December 23 in Miami.  It turns out there is no Camille and there is no Riley. Miami police said Friday that the whole story was fabricated by the woman who claimed to be the missing child's mother. That woman, Megan McCormick, has now been charged with filing a false police report. According to Miami police detective Freddy Ponce, McCormick made up the story about her missing 6-month old son to cover up the fact that she had a miscarriage six months ago and didn't want her ex-boyfriend, John Buchness, to know the truth. Police say Buchness had no knowledge of the miscarriage and was in Miami to meet his son for the first time. That's when the story started to fall apart.

Search for Missing Miami Baby

What a nightmare for a parent to experience... The parents of a 6 month old toddler are desperately looking for the whereabouts of their baby boy. The baby was last seen with his babysitter, Camille on December 23rd. She's described as five feet six inches tall, weighing about 130 pounds, with dark brown hair halfway down her back and a gap between her teeth. She speaks with a heavy French accent.

If you're in Florida, please keep your eyes open for this baby and look out for a red Acura with a Massachusetts license plate. Police ask anyone with information to call Miami Police at 305-579-6630 or 305-579-6619.

clipped from wbztv.com Police: Missing Florida Boy May Be In Mass. Car The search for a missing toddler in Florida has ties to Massachusetts. 6-month-old Riley Buchness was last seen by his parents December 23 in Miami. Police did not offer details of his disappearance, other than he was with a woman by the name of "Camille." Riley, who is white and about a foot tall was last seen wearing a white onesie with blue jeans. His hair is in a mohawk style, he has one tooth, and a fake tattoo of an anchor on his left arm. He's believed to be with a 20-to-30 year old woman named "Camille." Her last name is not known. She speaks with a heavy French accent. She is white, 5-feet-5 inches tall, weighs 130 pounds, with very long brown hair, brown eyes, and a gap between her teeth. Police say Riley and Camille are possibly traveling in a red Acura, possibly with a Massachusetts license plate. Investigators are asking anyone who sees the child or the car to contact their local police department immediately.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

On behalf of Lilly Aramburo's family and friends, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and the happiest of holidays. We'd like to thank you for all your kindness and support. We appreciate all your prayers for Lilly and wish you and your loved ones a safe and joyous holiday.

If you're planning a holiday donation, please don't forget the missing. A few charities in special need of funding which we recommend supporting are:
National Center for Missing Adults (NCMA)
Project Jason

Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful.