@Ashildir said:
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Did LE not want the Fire Department helping because of BM's connection with them as a volunteer? I have always found that a little strange.
It's never been stated that way specifically, but I think it's entirely possible that was the reason.
If there was any chance of a conflict of interest, the prudent decision would be to keep the FD out of the initial/ongoing investigation.
jmo
I think it's important to note that not only were volunteer firefighters advised they were not eligible to come up to the designated search locations mapped out by authorities, CCSO also did not welcome and discouraged locals from participating or organizing any search efforts. CCSO expressed their gratitude and stated they had it covered.
Another relevant factor is Chaffee County actually has two trained county teams, mandated by Colorado state statute (North and South Emergency Rescue Services), on standby for missing person incidents.
Personally, I think BM was going to have an issue with CCSO, specifically Sheriff Spezzze, from before BM even crossed the Chaffee County line on Sunday, May 10 (returning from Denver).
BM was already distancing himself (for good reason) from authorities and reportedly sent his 'buddy,' perhaps unknowing to him at the time, to act as his eyes and ears on the early impression of responding authorities.
From the bits and pieces of how authorities were made aware of SM missing, it does not appear that BM, the husband, had any immediate contact with local authorities--but directed others to reach out and make calls on his behalf.
Clearly, BM has stuck to his agenda to blame CCSO on why SM has not been located or why they were unable to develop any possible trail leading to the direction of the boogeyman.
What better response for BM to have in his pocket as news broke out about the plight of SM, with IN family and friends arriving Salida, in explanation as to why your typical and/or anticipated arrangement between the victim's husband/family and authorities was at best, nonexistent or deeply strained.
In my experience, your typical arrangement includes a staging or checkpoint as close to the official search area as permitted where authorities allow immediate family such as the husband or parent to standby with a LE appointed, official escort. A place where a family can await any news their loved one located or even that authorities may have collected an item(s) to test that may provide authorities with evidence that the victim may have been in that area at one time or may even still there.
Of course, this may be more typical for the innocent whose only priority is to find the missing and no worry of any chance of being observed by authorities.
- Finally, let's not forget that BM was a no-show at the only presser by CCSO only four days after SM reported missing;
- BM via his spokesperson launched and announced a GET for their own search agenda led by husband and 'his people;'
- Comments released to MSM citing BM's buddies less than complimentary attitude towards CCSO;
- BM's YT interview blaming CCSO for blotching the investigation;
- BM private interview with Fox21's LS still blaming CCSO and holding them responsible for obliterating critical evidence from day one.
MOO
Search and Rescue - Chaffee County Sheriff
