Someone inquired earlier about what has drawn people to this case. This is my first post to the forum, although I have been lurking (okay, let's be honest, obsessing) for the past few weeks. Following these threads has been a fascinating and sometimes heartbreaking exercise, and I have learned so much from all of you.
I have an LDS background, and am familiar with many of the geographical locations associated with this case. My biggest draw to the story is the fact that I witnessed a very close family member become quickly and heavily involved in the extreme "prepper" movement -- believing in visions and end of times prophecies, tens of thousands of dollars spent on supplies, a detailed plan to head to the hills when the "calling out" occurred. These actions caused great concern to nearly everyone around them. Efforts to reason with this person generally failed. It was scary. Gratefully, over time, and after certain prophecies didn't come to fulfillment (JR the author's earthquake prediction, for example), the level of intensity/involvement for my family member lessened. They have not been closely associated with Chad & Lori's subgroup, and claim to have pulled back from being as active in AVOW and the other group for the past two years. But at the height of their involvement, it was alarming and frankly very frightening to see how quickly they became immersed in that radical mindset.
Because of that experience and what I observed, I initially held out hope that Tylee and JJ had been hidden with like-minded folks. As time has gone on, watching everything that has unfolded and with no sign of the kids, that hope has diminished. I broke down and cried yesterday after seeing Lori in court. It's finally sinking into my heart that the children are probably gone.
(my opinion only)
Thank you to those in this forum who have provided such valuable information, particularly the verified insiders. Also, huge shout-out to
@Gardener1850 for the incredible job on the timeline.
