I'm not being argumentative, but just want to point out another perspective on this: maybe LE have their hands full most of the time and can't direct 100% of resources to every missing person all of the time. In other words, it's a heck of a lot easier to criticize actions after the fact IMO and I think it's more complicated than that.
JMO.
IMO, both of you are correct. The problem is there so much post-restrictions on WS, coupled with limited information released by LE.
I've been concerned with the local LE actions on the first night. It has nothing to do with being anti community, family or anti-LE, it has everything to do with what was already made public. This forum's "community-friendly posts only", threats did not help and actually increased suspicion of some who may not deserve it.
However, I learned the local LE has been working with limited resources for months. The state's drug epidemic has strained many local LE departments. Learning this information, instead of the "do not discuss" approach, helped me better understand and appreciate the small-town sheriff departments.
Based on the information the local LE had from the girls' families, along with their thorough search into the late evening, it appears LE made a difficult but sound decision to resume the search the next morning.
IMO, this decision may be subject to further administrative review and a root cause analysis at a later date, but it is clear the search was not suspended due to willful neglect or a cover up.