I'm a local, been on Websleuths for years and years. I have not asked to be verified as a local, because when I read the instructions, etc. I didn't fit the criteria. IIRC, only those who are insiders, who have some contact that others from the area do not have, and things like that need to be verified. I do not personally know any of the Shunicks, although two of my sons have friends who are also friends with Brettly, Mickey, and Charlie. I have friends who have been active with volunteer searches, but I am not going to use my friendship to try to get exclusive info, and my two contacts in local LE both transferred to larger municipalities in the last few years.
So I can help out with local information, like where I've seen searches, what my kids tell me about how Mickey, Brettly and Charlie have such positive reputations, but no insider info. (honestly, if I did have insider info, I might hesitate to share it on a public forum!)
I think the other case you cite is completely different. LE knew that man had those two girls in his vehicle. LE here do not know for a fact the DWT is involved with Mickey's disappearance. All they have is that the truck was in the area. I really think that explains the different reactions of LE, but YMMV.