MPD Press Releases
Press Releases are indexed chronologically, with the date and
title of Press Release.
December 25, 2002 - PRESS CONFERENCE TO BE HELD ON EIGHT MONTH PREGNANT WOMAN
MISSING
December 26, 2002 - SEARCH CONTINUES FOR MISSING WOMAN
December 27, 2002 - PRESS CONFERENCE TO BE HELD REGARDING MISSING WOMAN
December 28, 2002 - SEARCH AND REWARD GROWS FOR LACI PETERSON
December 29, 2002 - SEARCH CONTINUES FOR MISSING LACI PETERSON
December 30, 2002 - SEARCH FOR LACI YIELDS NO LEADS
December 31, 2002 - Search Continues for Laci Peterson
January 2, 2003 - POLICE RELEASE PHOTOS OF TRUCK AND BOAT
January 3, 2003 - Covena Burglars Arrested
January 4, 2003 - Lack of Leads Does Not Deter Search
January 9, 2003 - Object found at Marina
January 11, 2003 - No Body Found
January 13, 2003 - No Press Conference Scheduled 1-13
January 17, 2003 - NO PRESS CONFERENCES PLANNED
January 20, 2003 - PETERSON'S HOME BURGLARIZED
January 24, 2003 - PRESS CONFERENCE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY ON MISSING EXPECTANT
MOTHER
January 24, 2003 - RELATIONSHIP VERIFIED IN PETERSON CASE
January 31, 2003 - INVESTIGATION CONTINUES
February 7, 2003 - Search Scheduled for This Weekend
February 18, 2003 - PETERSON'S HOME SEARCHED
February 20, 2003 - POLICE REQUEST MEDIA'S ASSISTANCE
February 28, 2003 - Tipline Questions Answered
March
5, 2003 - PRESS CONFERENCE ON LACI'S DISAPPEARANCE
March
13, 2003 - BAY AREA SEARCH SUSPENDED-PETERSON INVESTIGATION
April
4, 2003 - UPDATE ON SEARCH WARRANTS
April
10, 2003 - RULING ON PETITION TO UNSEAL WARRANTS
April
14, 2003 - UNIDENTIFIED BODY FOUND IN EAST BAY
April
15, 2003 - PRESS CONFERENCE SCHEDULED
April
15, 2003 - BAY BODIES STILL UNIDENTIFIED
April
18, 2003 - PETERSON BODIES IDENTIFIED, HUSBAND ARRESTED
April
29, 2003 - LACI PETERSON MEMORIAL
May 2,
2003 - Laci Peterson Memorial
May
30, 2003 - Police Respond to Peterson Home
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Date
Issued: |
12/26/2002 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
3:30:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Help
Needed |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
SEARCH CONTINUES FOR MISSING
WOMAN
|
|
MODESTO, Calif. – Modesto Police
continue to search for Laci Peterson, who was last seen on
Christmas Eve morning about 9:30 a.m. Laci is eight months
pregnant and was reported missing by her husband, Scott
Peterson, on the evening of December 24. On the morning of
December 24, Scott Peterson went fishing in the Bay Area
and Laci stayed home with plans to shop for dinner and
walk their dog at East La Loma Park and Dry Creek. When
Scott returned home that evening, Laci was not home. The
dog was found earlier and returned to the backyard by a
neighbor. The leash was still attached to the dog’s
collar. Modesto Police Officers immediately began a search
of the park and the Dry Creek River area. The Stanislaus
County Sheriff’s Department helicopter was called in to
assist with the search. On Christmas morning, additional
assistance was received from the Water Rescue Units from
Modesto City Fire Department and Stanislaus Consolidated
Fire. Modesto Police canines and equestrian teams were
used to further the search along the creek bed and in the
park. The search for Laci continues to expand beyond the
park and river area. “We have organized volunteers for a
systematic search and it is our hope to find Laci and
bring her home,” said Chief Roy Wasden. The family and
friends of Laci Peterson have established a $100,000
reward for the safe return, or information leading to the
safe return, of Laci Peterson. Additionally, an anonymous
person has also established a $25,000 reward through the
Carole Sund-Carrington Memorial Reward Foundation. Friends
of the family have established a fund to assist with any
search efforts. Donations can be made to: AG Edwards and
Sons Laci Peterson Fund 1549 McHenry Ave. Modesto CA 95350
Attn: Stacey Boyers/Jeffrey Sutton
|
|
Date Issued: 12/27/2002
Author: Smith, Gail
Time Issued: 1:30:00 PM
Division: Office of the Chief of Police
Importance: Help Needed
Location: Modesto, CA
PRESS CONFERENCE TO BE HELD REGARDING MISSING WOMAN
Modesto, CA - On 12-24-02 at about 5:48 p.m., Modesto Police
received a phone call from a man stating that his pregnant wife
had not been seen since 9:30 a.m., Christmas Eve. The
Modesto Police Department is continuing their investigation into
the next phase. Last night, a search warrant was served at
the peterson residence. The focus of the search warrant was to
attempt to locate evidence of any activity before or after
Laci's disappearance and evidence of a stranger intrusion. FBI
agents assisted the Modesto Police Department in processing the
residence for evidence.
On 12-24-2002, Scott Peterson, of Modesto, left to the Bay Area
to go fishing. His wife, Laci Denise Peterson, 26 years, stayed
home to
shop for dinner that evening and to walk their dog at Dry Creek
Park. After Scott was done fishing, he tried to call Laci
from his cell phone
but did not reach her. When he arrived home, he discovered his
dog in the back yard of his house with the leash still attached.
There
was nothing unusual found in the house to indicate anything had
happened and Laci's purse was still in the house. Scott and
family members
began searching the park for Laci and called the Police.
Modesto Police have coordinated an extensive search in the area
and employed the use of the Sheriffs Department helicopter and
heat-seeking device to attempt to locate Laci. Laci is
described as a white female, 5'-1" tall, 140 lbs, with brown
shoulder length hair. She was last seen wearing a white long
sleeve shirt and black pants. She has a tattoo of a sunflower on
her left ankle and she is currently eight months pregnant.
Modesto Police investigators and media personnel will hold a
press briefing update at 3:30 p.m. at the Modesto Police
Department Public
Meeting Room. If you have any information about the
location of this missing woman, please call Modesto Police at
(209) 342-6166. Investigators would also like to speak
with anyone who personally spoke with Laci anytime between
Sunday and her disappearance on Tuesday. The Modesto Police
Department is also asking for help from the community.
Investigators are asking that any property owners check their
properties, orchards, fields, etc. for any evidence that may
help in this investigation. This is especially important in
remote areas.
|
Date
Issued: |
12/28/2002 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
3:00:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Help
Needed |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
SEARCH AND REWARD GROWS FOR
LACI PETERSON
|
|
Modesto, CA – The Modesto Police Department
continues the search for Laci Peterson, the 27-year-old
Modesto woman who has been missing since Christmas Eve.
The Carole Sund Carrington Memorial Reward Foundation also
announced that the reward for Laci’s safe return has
increased to $500,000. At a press conference at Modesto
Police Department at 2:30 p.m. today, Modesto Police
explained that the search for the eight-month pregnant
woman has expanded outside of the city limits and into the
rural Stanislaus County area. Modesto Police, with the
assistance of Stanislaus County Sheriff’s deputies,
equestrian teams from the Police Department and Sheriff’s
Department and members of the Valley Search and Rescue
team searched the wetlands along Highway 132. Police
explorers, members from special units and volunteers have
been used to search the ground. The Stanislaus County
Sheriff’s Department helicopter has been used to search
rural areas from the air. Modesto Police Detectives with
the assistance of Contra Costa County Search and Rescue
did conduct a search of a marina in Berkley. “It’s a
logical step in the investigation in an attempt to
investigate all possibilities,” said Sgt Michael Zahr of
the Modesto Police Department Investigations Division. “As
of this time, we haven’t found anything conclusive. It is
still our hope to find Laci and bring her home to her
family safely.” Laci Peterson is still considered to be
missing and police are using all resources to locate her
safely and bring her home to her family. An anonymous
donor made a generous contribution to the reward for
Laci’s safe return. Kim Peterson, Executive Director of
the Carole Sund Carrington Memorial Reward Foundation,
announced at the press conference that the reward for Laci
Peterson’s safe return is now $500,000. For additional
information on this case, you may view the Modesto Police
Department web page at www.modestopolice.com.
|
|
|
Date
Issued: |
12/29/2002 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
3:30:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Help
Needed |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
SEARCH CONTINUES FOR MISSING
LACI PETERSON
|
|
Modesto, CA - Modesto Police Department continues
the search for Laci Peterson, the 27-year-old Modesto
woman who has been missing since Christmas Eve. Searches
conducted this far have yet to reveal any conclusive
evidence or clues as to the expectant mother's
whereabouts. At a press conference at Modesto Police
Department at 2:30 p.m. today, Modesto Police explained
that they are continuing their search of rural areas
outside the city limits of Modesto. So far, searches of
the wetlands along Highway 132, rural areas west of
Modesto, East La Loma Park, Dry Creek and a search of a
marina in Berkeley have not unveiled any conclusive
evidence to assist Detectives with their investigation.
Sgt. Ron Cloward, who is leading the search teams stated,
"We are continuing to look for Laci in the hopes of
finding her alive." Residents in rural areas are urged to
search their property for any signs of Laci. Laci is
described as 5'1", 140 pounds, with brown shoulder length
hair and a sunflower tattoo on her left ankle. Laci is
eight months pregnant and was last seen wearing a long
sleeved, white shirt and black pants. "We are expanding
our investigation to another phase. We are contacting
known sex offenders that live or frequent the area to
determine their whereabouts on day Laci was reported
missing,” said Sergeant Michael Zahr, Investigation
Supervisor. The tip lines have received approximately 340
calls so far, and police continue to follow-up on those
that are credible. "Unfortunately, we have no concrete
leads from those tips at this point," said Zahr. For
additional information on this case, you may view the
Modesto Police Department web page at
www.modestopolice.com. We are asking that the media
utilize the numbers below and do not call the tip lines.
If you have any questions about this press release, please
contact Detective Doug Ridenour, Modesto Police Department
Media Relations, at 209-572-9579, or at pager number
209-492-3564.
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|
|
Date
Issued: |
12/30/2002 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
4:30:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Help
Needed |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
SEARCH FOR LACI YIELDS NO
LEADS
|
|
Modesto, CA - Modesto Police investigators have
virtually left no stone unturned and still, any leads as
to Laci's whereabouts have not been revealed. Modesto
Police Department, along with other law enforcement
agencies and hundreds of volunteers have searched for Laci
Peterson since her disappearance on Christmas Eve morning.
Modesto Police Department has searched vacant homes and
buildings in search of Laci Peterson. Investigators have
also contacted 155 registered sex offenders that live in
the southeast area of Modesto. Police received information
that Laci may have been in the Copeland's Sports Store on
McHenry Avenue in the evening or late afternoon of
December 24. Police are still viewing the surveillance
tape. Police detectives do have a Berkeley marina receipt
from Scott Peterson, Laci's husband. Scott Peterson went
fishing in the marina on the morning of Laci's
disappearance. He was the last person reported to see Laci
around 9:30 that morning. Laci Peterson is eight months
pregnant, about 5'1" tall, 140 pounds, shoulder length
brown hair, and has a sunflower tattoo on her left ankle.
She was last seen wearing black pants and a long sleeve
white shirt. Detectives do believe that Laci did not
voluntarily leave her home and is not the type of person
to not contact her family. Detectives continue to look at
all possibilities of her disappearance, including foul
play. Volunteers are still encouraged and being utilized
to search ground areas and pass out flyers. The volunteer
center is located at the Red Lion Hotel at 1612 Sisk Road
in Modesto. The family of Laci Peterson is holding a
candlelight vigil on December 31 at 4:30 p.m. The vigil
will be at the tennis court area of East La Loma Park. A
press conference will be held on December 31 at 2:30 p.m.
at the Modesto Police Department.
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|
|
Date
Issued: |
12/31/2002 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
7:30:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Help
Needed |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
Search Continues for Laci
Peterson
Laci Peterson |
|
Modesto, CA - Modesto Police Department
investigators announce a reward for suspect(s) in a
burglary and continue the search for Laci Peterson, the
27-year-old Modesto woman who has been missing since
Christmas Eve. Police read a written statement in the
disappearance, which may involve foul play. At a press
conference at Modesto Police Department at 2:30 p.m.
today, Modesto Police explained that they are continuing
to be hopeful, but increasingly discourage over Laci
Peterson’s disappearance. The search of rural areas
outside the city limits of Modesto is being conducted with
assistance of Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team
and helicopter air services. “We could not have searched
the amount of area without the Sheriff’s Department help.
In addition, the community has assisted our efforts
throughout the City and County areas,” said Sergeant Ron
Cloward, supervisor of the search teams. Searches
conducted this far have yet to reveal any conclusive
evidence or clues as to the expectant mother's
whereabouts. At the conference today, police read a
prepared statement from the investigation team “…as we
continue to profile Laci’s [Peterson] background, gather
witness statements, recognize her close relationship with
family and friends, investigate the circumstances of her
disappearance, and in view of the timing with the holiday
season, it is becoming more apparent that her
disappearance is the result of foul play. The
investigation is progressing forward with that as the main
focus, but we have not ruled out other possibilities,”
said Detective Jon Buehler, Homicide Unit. We are
expanding our investigation to another phase. The tip
lines will be opened and investigators will continue the
investigation throughout the holiday. No press conference
is planned for Wednesday 1st. The public is encouraged to
call the police hotline at 209-342-6166 to provide any
information they may have on the disappearance of Laci
Peterson. For additional information on this case, you may
view the Modesto Police Department web page at
www.modestopolice.com.
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|
|
Date
Issued: |
1/2/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
5:00:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Help
Needed |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
POLICE RELEASE PHOTOS OF
TRUCK AND BOAT
Lacy Peterson |
|
MODESTO, Calif. – Police investigators revealed
photos of a truck and boat owned by Scott Peterson and
urge the public to contact the Department if anyone
recalls seeing the truck and boat between December 23 and
December 25th. Modesto Police Department continues their
search for Laci Peterson, the 27-year-old expectant mother
who has been missing since Christmas Eve. Her husband,
Scott Peterson, reportedly last saw Laci at 9:30 on
Christmas Eve morning. Scott left the family residence in
his pickup truck, hooked the boat up at another location
and went to a marina in Berkeley for a fishing trip. The
truck is a 2002, Ford F150 pickup, bronze in color, with
California license 6T59718. The boat is a 1991, 14-foot
aluminum boat and trailer with a 15 horsepower outboard
motor. Police are trying to corroborate Scott’s trip to
the Berkeley area. Detectives are continuing to seek
information in Laci’s disappearance. “We’re continuing to
investigate every logical direction and seek the public’s
help to provide information,” said Detective Doug
Ridenour, Modesto Police Department Public Information
Officer. A hotline number has been established and has
received over 1100 tips since Christmas Day. That number
is 209-342-6166.
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|
|
Date
Issued: |
1/3/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
5:00:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
Covena Burglars Arrested
|
|
Modesto, CA - Police Detectives announced that they
had two men in custody for the burglary that occurred
across the street from Laci Peterson's residence on Covena
Avenue in Modesto. On Wednesday, January 2, police
received an anonymous tip regarding the burglary that
occurred at 516 Covena Avenue. Modesto Police officers and
parole agents with the Department of Corrections were able
to locate Steven Wayne Todd, 35 years and Donald Glen
Pearce, 44 years, both of Modesto. Both men have been
arrested and charged with the burglary that occurred at
the Covena Avenue address. Modesto Police offered a $1000
reward to anyone who had information that would lead them
to suspects in the burglary that occurred across the
street from the home of Laci Peterson. Modesto Police
needed to rule out, or link, any connection to the
burglary with the disappearance of Laci. Todd and Pearce
have both cooperated fully in the burglary investigation
and police do not have any reason to believe they are
connected to the disappearance of Laci Peterson. "We have
been able to verify the truthfulness of their statements,"
said Detective George Stough. Investigation revealed that
the burglary occurred on December 26, two days after the
disappearance of Laci Peterson. Police continue their
search of Laci and continue to follow-up on all credible
leads. Sgt. Ron Cloward, who is leading the search teams
stated, "We are continuing to look for Laci and have
expanded out search area to outside of Stanislaus County
and into adjoining counties." Todd and Pierce are pictured
below, with Todd being on the left.
  |
|
|
Date
Issued: |
1/4/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
5:00:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Help
Needed |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
Lack of Leads Does Not Deter
Search
Laci Peterson |
|
Modesto, CA – Despite a lack of concrete leads,
Modesto Police Department is not hesitant to continue
their search for Laci Peterson. “We’re tired, but we’re
committed to finding Laci. The search won’t end until we
believe we’ve searched every possible area,” said Sgt. Ron
Cloward who is heading the search efforts. The search for
the 27-year-old pregnant woman continued into counties
adjacent to Stanislaus County and over to a marina in
Berkeley where her husband reportedly was fishing on the
day of her disappearance. Sgt. Ron Cloward, who is heading
the search efforts, added C.A.R.D.A., the California
Rescue Dog Association, to the list of resource agencies
assisting Modesto Police in their extensive search. “Today
there are approximately 37 law enforcement individuals
searching for Laci,” reported Sgt. Cloward at today’s news
conference. There is also a team of individuals searching
the Berkeley marina, that specific number was unavailable
at the time of the conference. Police continue their
search of Laci with hopes of finding her alive but realize
the possibility that she may have been the victim of foul
play. Sgt. Cloward requested the assistance of landowners
in rural areas to search their property for any sign of
Laci Peterson, “Continue to look in the obvious and less
obvious places. If you find something, call us or call
your local law enforcement agency.” Laci is described as
5'1", 140 pounds, with brown shoulder length hair and a
sunflower tattoo on her left ankle. Laci is eight months
pregnant and was last seen wearing a long sleeved, white
shirt and black pants. Her husband, Scott Peterson, states
that he last saw her on December 24 at approximately 9:30
a.m.
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|
|
Date
Issued: |
1/9/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
6:30:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
Object found at Marina
Laci Peterson |
|
Modesto, CA – Further search today
in the area of the Berkeley Marina revealed an object on
the sonar device that is possibly a human body. Weather
and diver fatigue did not permit divers to examine this
object today. Saturday, weather and conditions permitting,
divers will attempt to examine the object and determine
what exactly it is. Again as explained to the media in the
past, we will not speculate on information that has not
been confirmed or talk about areas that may impact our
investigation. If anything is confirmed to be relating to
this case, a press advisory will be forwarded through
normal communications and a press conference will be
scheduled allowing ample time for the media to respond.
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|
|
Date
Issued: |
1/11/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
3:00:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
No Body Found
Laci Peterson |
|
Modesto, CA - We have concluded our search at the
Berkeley Marina today. Dive teams found an anchor in the
area where the unidentified object was located. We were
unable to remove anchor, however, the Side Scan Sonar
device was brought back through the area to confirm that
the area is clear of all other suspicious objects. No
other object was detected. Again, as explained to the
media in the past, we will not speculate on information
that has not been confirmed or talk about areas that may
impact our investigation. If anything is confirmed to be
relating to this case, a press advisory will be forwarded
through normal communications and a press conference will
be scheduled allowing ample time for the media to respond.
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|
|
Date
Issued: |
1/13/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
9:00:00 AM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
No Press Conference
Scheduled 1-13
Laci Peterson |
|
Modesto, CA – There will be no further press
conferences until significant information or a break in
the case occurs in the Laci Peterson investigation. We
continue to investigate leads and search areas surrounding
Stanislaus County. Those locations will not be revealed.
As explained to the media in the past, we will not
speculate or talk about areas that may impact our
investigation. If there is any significant break in this
case, a press advisory will be forwarded through normal
communications and a press conference will be scheduled
allowing ample time for the media to respond.
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|
|
Date
Issued: |
1/17/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
10:00:00 AM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
NO PRESS CONFERENCES PLANNED
|
|
Modesto, CA – There will be no further press
conferences in the Laci Peterson investigation until there
is significant new information or a break in the case. We
will not confirm or deny reports from news agencies that
are not from official police comments that are properly
releasable. The Modesto Police Department will not respond
to rumors or speculation. The Peterson case continues in a
logical, methodical and customary law enforcement
investigative manner. Today, we continue to investigate
leads and search areas surrounding Stanislaus County.
Those locations will not be revealed at this time. As
explained to the media in the past, we will not speculate
or talk about areas that may impact our investigation. If
there is any significant break in this case, a press
advisory will be forwarded through normal communications,
and a press conference will be scheduled allowing ample
time for the media to respond.
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|
Date
Issued: |
1/20/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
2:30:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
PETERSON'S HOME BURGLARIZED
Laci Peterson |
|
MODESTO, CA - The home of missing Laci Peterson was
burglarized during the past few days while Scott Peterson
had been out of town. Detectives are investigating the
break-in and don't believe it is connected to the missing
person case. Sometime between Thursday and Sunday, the
home of Scott and Laci Peterson was burglarized. Scott
Peterson reported the burglary Sunday night to police
around 7:46 p.m. The burglar broke a window and entered
the home. Police are not releasing the property taken at
this point. "We are currently investigating this break-in
and we are not prepared to release much information.
Detectives are working on leads that may solve this case
soon, and we don't want to interfere in identifying the
suspect(s)," said Sergeant Michael Zahr, supervisor of
detectives.
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|
|
Date
Issued: |
1/24/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
3:30:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Help
Needed |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
PRESS CONFERENCE SCHEDULED
FOR TODAY ON MISSING EXPECTANT MOTHER
Laci Peterson |
|
Modesto, CA- There will be a scheduled updated
press conference today on the Laci Peterson missing person
case 6:30 p.m., Friday, January 24, 2003 in the Public
Meeting room at Modesto Police Department, 600-10th
Street, Modesto. We will not be making any statements
prior to the Conference.
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|
|
Date
Issued: |
1/24/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
6:30:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
RELATIONSHIP VERIFIED IN
PETERSON CASE
Laci Peterson |
|
Modesto, CA - Today, police officially verified a
prior relationship between Scott Peterson and Amber Frey.
Police will continue their stance to only notify the media
when significant information or a break in the case
occurs. Amber Frey, 28 years old, informed the media of
her relationship with Scott Peterson during a press
conference at the Modesto Police Department. Detective
Doug Ridenour, spokesman for the department, read the
following statement: "We would like to preface the news
conference by requesting that you respect our willingness
to inform the media when it won't compromise the
investigation. Ms. Amber Frey will make a brief statement;
neither she nor the police will be answering questions.
For the near future, we have asked Ms. Frey not to make
statements to the media. It is her desire that you respect
her privacy. Please don't follow, harass or make any
attempts to interview her during this investigation."
Amber Frey contacted the Modesto Police Department on
Monday December 30, 2002; she met with detectives and gave
information about a relationship with Scott Peterson that
was verified by a variety of means. Amber Frey has been
cooperative in the investigation and is not a suspect in
Laci Peterson's disappearance. The department will not
schedule further press conferences until a significant
information break in the case occurs.
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Date
Issued: |
1/31/2003 |
Author: |
Fuzie, Chris |
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Time
Issued: |
1:00:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
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Importance: |
Help
Needed |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
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INVESTIGATION CONTINUES
Laci Peterson |
|
The Modesto Police Department is continuing their
ongoing investigation on the Laci Peterson Missing Person
case. Detectives are aware of the information from
Longview, Washington. The Modesto Police Department has
received over 6000 tips so far from all over the country.
Modesto Investigators are currently working with
investigators in Longview, however we will not be making
any public statements regarding the investigation or
results of any collateral investigations with other
agencies regarding this case.
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Date
Issued: |
2/7/2003 |
Author: |
Cloward, Ron |
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Time
Issued: |
10:00:00 AM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
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Importance: |
Help
Needed |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
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Search Scheduled for This
Weekend
Laci Peterson |
|
The Modesto Police Department is continuing the
ongoing investigation on the Laci Peterson Missing Person
case and assisting the family with their privately
coordinated search. For the next three weekends, the
family of missing person Laci Peterson will be conducting
coordinated searches. The family has met with members of
the Modesto Police Department in an effort to organize
these searches. Between the family and Modesto Police,
areas of search have been discussed and decided upon.
Although assisting in the coordination of these searches,
the Modesto Police Department will not be assisting in the
searches, concentrating instead on their own investigative
search. "We welcome all the help we can get in locating
Laci", said Chief Roy Wasden. If you have any questions
about this press release, please, contact Sergeant Ron
Cloward, spokesman at (209) 652-3298 in the Police
Department's Media Relations Office.
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Date
Issued: |
2/18/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
11:00:00 AM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
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PETERSON'S HOME SEARCHED
Laci Peterson |
|
MODESTO, CA -Police returned to Scott Peterson's
home at 523 Covina Avenue to conduct a second search
warrant. Today, detectives served a search warrant at
Scott and Laci Peterson's home at 523 Covina. Detectives
released the following statement: "Discoveries during the
Laci Peterson investigation have necessitated revisiting
the Peterson residence with a second search warrant. A
search warrant was served this morning at the Peterson
residence at 8:10 a.m. The position of the Modesto Police
Department has been and remains that no details about this
investigation will be released. Mr. Peterson was
cooperative with us this morning. He took some personal
and work related items from the home and left the home
voluntarily while the search took place" said Craig
Grogan, lead investigator in the Peterson case. Scott
Peterson was at home when detectives arrived and he was
not taken into custody. Scott's status in this case of his
wife's disappearance has not changed. He has not been
identified as a suspect nor eliminated from this
investigation. There are no plans for any press
conferences at this time, unless a major development or
significant event takes place.
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Date
Issued: |
2/20/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
7:00:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
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POLICE REQUEST MEDIA'S
ASSISTANCE
Laci Peterson |
|
Modesto, CA-The media satellite trucks stationed in
the area of the Covena neighborhood are causing a noise
disturbance for neighbors. Citizens are also reporting to
police that media personnel and equipment make it
difficult to drive down their street or get into their
homes. Modesto Police are asking media producers to remove
their satellite trucks and personnel from the residential
areas impacting the Covena neighborhood. Our policy
continues to be that when a significant or breaking
development occurs, the Modesto Police Media Relations
office will notify the news agencies via advisory and
allow minimum of four hours to respond to a press
conference. We would like to maintain this understanding.
We need the producer's assistance in managing their staff,
equipment, and satellite trucks to minimize the impact on
our community. "If necessary, we will strictly enforce the
applicable vehicle codes using both state and local laws
to preserve our community," said Roy Wasden, Chief of
Police.
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Date
Issued: |
2/28/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
10:45:00 AM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
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|
Tipline Questions Answered
Laci Peterson |
|
In recent news, people who had left tips have
spoken to the media about their tips to the Laci Peterson
Hotline. We did receive the tip from Mrs. Mitchell. It was
documented and appropriately handled during our
investigation. Mrs. Mitchell gave detailed information to
the employee who took the tip. She went into great detail
while speaking to this employee so there was no additional
information needed from her. Our tipline has received many
calls ranging from legitimate tips to people expressing
their opinions and feelings. We have logged and processed
the calls and they are all forwarded to an investigator.
This investigator then reviews the tips. The majority of
the 8,000 plus tips have not received calls back. If the
caller only left minimal information or the investigator
feels further information is needed, there will be
follow-up. On those tips where the caller is detailed and
thorough, the person is generally not called back. No tips
have been ignored. We will continue to take tips from
anyone who feels they have information which could lead to
this case being solved.
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Date
Issued: |
3/5/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
2:30:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Help
Needed |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
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|
PRESS CONFERENCE ON LACI'S
DISAPPEARANCE
Laci Peterson |
|
MODESTO, CA - There was a press conference on
Wednesday, March 5, 2003 at 2:30 p.m., at the Modesto
Police Department, 600 10th Street, in the Public Meeting
Room regarding the Laci Peterson investigation. "As the
investigation has progressed we have increasingly come to
believe that Laci Peterson is the victim of a violent
crime. This investigation began as a missing person case
and we all were hopeful that Laci would return home
safely. However, we have come to consider this a homicide
case. Based on this belief an additional reward is now
being offered for information that leads to her location
and recovery," said lead investigator Detective Craig
Grogan, Homicide Unit. Kim Petersen, executive director of
the Sund/Carrington Memorial Reward Foundation, announced
today that donors from an earlier reward for Laci's safe
return have approved the transfer of $50,000 dollars to be
used for information directly leading to the location and
recovery of Laci Peterson. In addition to the reward,
Laci's family urged the public to provide information to
police in order to locate Laci. Our tip line has received
many calls ranging from legitimate tips to people
expressing their opinions and feelings. We have logged and
processed the calls and they are all forwarded to an
investigator. Investigators then review the tips. The
majority of the 8,000 plus tips have not received return
calls. If the caller only left minimal information or the
investigator feels further information is needed, there
will be follow-up. On those tips where the caller is
detailed and thorough, the person is generally not called
back. No tips have been ignored. We will continue to seek
tips from anyone who feels they have information which
could lead to this case being solved.
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Date
Issued: |
3/13/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
10:00:00 AM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
BAY AREA SEARCH
SUSPENDED-PETERSON INVESTIGATION
Laci Peterson |
|
Modesto, CA-The search team that was in the
Richmond Point Bay area have suspended their operations.
Sgt. Ron Cloward, search team supervisor said, "the
weather conditions require us to discontinue the search."
It is not clear when the search team may return to this
area. We will continue our practice of not talking about
the Laci Peterson investigation. There are no press
conferences planned Should there be any significant
changes in the investigation of Laci Peterson's
disappearance, Modesto Police will hold a press
conference. The announcement of any press conference will
follow the standard routine of notification to the media
via electronic mail and official fax from the Public
Information Office.
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Date
Issued: |
4/4/2003 |
Author: |
Smith, Gail |
|
Time
Issued: |
11:30:00 AM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
UPDATE ON SEARCH WARRANTS
Laci Peterson |
|
MODESTO, CA - The Stanislaus County Superior Court
made a decision today regarding release of information
from search warrants in the Laci Peterson investigation.
The Modesto Police Department was present in court for a
hearing held today regarding the Modesto Bee's petition to
the court. This petition was regarding the procedural
release of search warrants obtained in the Laci Peterson
investigation. The Police Department supports the argument
brought forth by the District Attorney's Office that this
information should not be released to the public or the
media while the investigation is ongoing. The decision by
the Court today was to allow an in-camera (private)
hearing where the judge will decide if all or part of the
search warrants should continue to be sealed or should be
released to the public. Detectives from the Modesto Police
Department will be present at the hearing to provide
statements that will support our request for the continued
sealing of the search warrants. In addition, the Police
Department will be researching possible legislative action
to further clarify the law in regard to such hearings and
the potential pre-complaint unsealing of the search
warrants.
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|
Date
Issued: |
4/10/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
5:00:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
RULING ON PETITION TO UNSEAL
WARRANTS
Laci Peterson |
|
MODESTO, CA- A judge ruled today on the petition
filed by the media to unseal the search warrants and
affidavits in support of search warrants in the Laci
Peterson investigation. The Court denied the request to
unseal the warrants in its entirety. Around 11:00 a.m.
today, Roger M. Beauchesne, a judge of the Superior Court,
announced his ruling regarding the warrants in the Laci
Peterson Homicide case. Judge Beauchesne ruled that the
petitioners' request was denied in its entirety. "We
believed the release of information from the search
warrants would have been premature and so we were pleased
with the court's decision" said Greg Savelli, Commander of
Investigative Services Division. Modesto Bee filed the
media request to unseal the warrants. The court heard this
matter on April 9, 2003, in an in-camera hearing for the
purpose of determining the unsealing petition. Lead
investigator Detective Craig Grogan of the Homicide Unit
and Captain Greg Savelli testified in an effort to keep
the warrants sealed for integrity of the investigation.
"…revelations of confidential information contained in the
warrants, affidavits and returns would irreparably harm
the investigation," stated Judge Beauchesne in his ruling.
The media felt that the public's need to know was more
important than the keeping the warrants confidential and
the investigation intact until such time as the case is
filed for criminal complaint. The court will allow the
sealing for up to 90 days at which time the court can
consider an application for extension from the Police
Department to keep warrants sealed. Laci Peterson was
reported missing on December 24th, 2002 after her husband
Scott Peterson reportedly returned from fishing. Police
have been investigating the Modesto woman's disappearance
since that date. A suspect has not been identified in the
case. Detectives continue to work diligently on this
investigation.
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Date
Issued: |
4/14/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
9:00:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
UNIDENTIFIED BODY FOUND IN
EAST BAY
Laci Peterson |
|
MODESTO, Calif. - The Modesto Police Department was
notified around 12:15 p.m. today, that an unidentified
body had washed up in the Point Isabella area. The East
Bay Regional Park Police Department contacted our
Department to inform us of this body. Investigators from
our Crimes Against Persons unit responded to the Point
Isabella location to provide information in the event this
body was identified as Laci Peterson. At this point, we
have no information nor has the recovered body been
identified as that of Laci Peterson. Until such time as
our department has been notified and it has been confirmed
that the East Bay body is related to the Modesto case,
this is an East Bay Regional Police Department case. Our
department will not make a statement regarding another
jurisdiction's case. Should there be any significant
changes in the investigation of Laci Peterson's
disappearance, the Modesto Police will hold a press
conference. The announcement of any press conference will
follow the standard routine of notification to the media
via electronic mail and official fax from the Public
Information Office. We would ask for the media's
professional courtesy in respecting the neighborhoods
surrounding the home of the Petersons and their relatives
during this time.
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Date
Issued: |
4/15/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
11:00:00 AM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
PRESS CONFERENCE SCHEDULED
Laci Peterson |
|
Modesto, CA- There will be a
scheduled press conference today, Tuesday, April 15, 2003,
4:00 p.m., in the Public Meeting room at Modesto Police
Department, 600 10th Street, Modesto, for an update on the
Laci Peterson homicide case. For additional information on
this case, you may view our web page www.modestopolice.com.
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Date
Issued: |
4/15/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
4:00:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
BAY BODIES STILL
UNIDENTIFIED
Laci Peterson |
|
Modesto, CA - The two bodies found on the East side
of the San Francisco Bay have not yet been identified.
Jurisdiction of the two bodies will remain with the Bay
area law enforcement agencies. Today, the Contra Costa
Coroner's office announced that they were conducting a
Coroner's investigation on a male baby and female adult at
their facility. Both of the bodies were located in Contra
Costa County. The Modesto Police Department was notified
Monday, April 14th, around noon, of the female body
located at the East Bay / Point Isabel area. We had been
informed that a deceased baby was found in the Richmond
area on Sunday. Contra Costa County Coroner's office
released information to the public "…calling the body a
full-term male baby." They also confirmed that the adult
body is that of a female. Contra Costa County Coroner's
Office is responsible for identifying these two bodies.
Until the identities are confirmed and if it is determined
to be Laci Peterson, only then will the Modesto Police
become the investigative agency. Yesterday, the East Bay
Regional Park Police notified our department of the found
body and invited us to observe. They were aware that we
had been searching in this area for Laci Peterson.
Detectives from our department responded to the area where
the female body was located. Detectives remained in the
area until about 10:00 p.m. when the autopsy was
completed. The forensic pathologist completed the
examination and ordered additional examinations to
determine the identity of the two bodies. Our detectives
are conferring with the Bay Area agencies regarding this
case. In the event our agency has jurisdiction, we will
notify and advise the media through our normal procedures.
We will also maintain our practice of not releasing any
information about this case that could jeopardize the
investigation. As of now, the East Bay Regional Park
Police will remain the lead agency in the case of the
deceased female. The deceased baby will remain under the
jurisdiction of the Richmond Police Department.
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|
Date
Issued: |
4/18/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
6:00:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
PETERSON BODIES IDENTIFIED,
HUSBAND ARRESTED
Laci Peterson |
|
MODESTO, CA - Early this afternoon, the Department
of Justice Crime Lab positively identified the female body
that was found on Monday as being that of Laci Peterson.
They also identified the baby boy found in Richmond on
Sunday as belonging to Laci and Scott Peterson. At 11:10
a.m. today, Detectives from the Modesto Police Department
Crimes Against Persons unit arrested Scott Peterson in San
Diego for the homicide of Laci Peterson and their unborn
son. Modesto Police Chief Roy Wasden, along with Sheriff
Warren E. Rupf of the Contra Costa Sheriff's Office, Chief
Joseph Samuels of the Richmond Police Department, Chief
Norm Lapera of the East Bay Regional Park Police held a
press conference at Modesto Police Department announcing
the results of the crime lab tests and the arrest of Scott
Peterson. Sheriff Rupf officially announced that the
female body was positively identified as Laci Rocha
Peterson and the male baby was identified as being Laci's
unborn baby. The East Bay Regional Park Police found the
body of Laci and the Richmond Police Department found the
body of the baby. Late this morning Scott Peterson was
arrested at the intersection of Callas and Torrey Pines
Road in San Diego. The arrest was made by DOJ Special
Agent Supervisor Ernie Limon, Special Agent Peter Shear,
and CHP Officer Claude Jubran, without incident. He was
immediately turned over to Modesto Police Homicide
Detectives. Scott Peterson is being transported back to
Modesto to be booked into the Stanislaus County Public
Safety Center on two counts of murder. The family of Laci
Peterson was notified late this afternoon that the bodies
were confirmed to be that of Laci and her unborn son. They
were also notified of Scott Peterson's arrest. Modesto
Police also contacted Scott Peterson's parents and
notified them as well. Chief Wasden publicly thanked the
numerous agencies involved in the almost four months long
investigation. "During the sixteen weeks of looking for
Laci Peterson, we have received tremendous support from
law enforcement agencies throughout California and
throughout the Nation. The Modesto Police Department
Homicide team worked incredibly hard, investigating every
possible lead ensuring a complete investigation was
conducted that would lead to a successful prosecution."
Scott Peterson is scheduled to be booked into the
Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on two counts of
murder. Modesto Police will continue the investigation and
present it to the Stanislaus County District Attorney's
office for filing.
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|
Date
Issued: |
4/29/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
6:00:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
LACI PETERSON MEMORIAL
Laci Peterson |
|
MODESTO, Calif. - A date has been chosen for a
memorial for Laci and Conner Peterson. This memorial will
be open to the public. The family of Laci Peterson has
chosen to have a public memorial service for Laci and
Conner on May 4th, 2003 at 3:00 p.m. The location of this
memorial will be the First Baptist Church, 1316 12th
Street, Modesto (12th and M Streets). The family chose
this location since it can seat over 2000 people. The
public is invited to share this memorial of Laci. It has
been decided to cover this event using pool media. There
will be pools for electronic media, print media,
photography and radio. Information regarding the pool will
be released later this week. At the request of the family,
there will be no cameras or recording devices of any type
allowed inside the services. There will be no parking for
the media in or around the First Baptist Church at the
request of the family and the church. The streets
surrounding the First Baptist Church will be closed (with
the exception of Needham, a public highway) to accommodate
the massive amount of parking that is expected to be
required for this memorial. Modesto Police Department will
close Tenth Street (west of the Police Department),
between F and G, so the media may park their vehicles at
that location. The public meeting room will be open and
available upon request for media use. Detective Doug
Ridenour will be in charge of the logistics regarding the
media during the memorial service. He can be reached at
209-492-3564 or 209-572-9579.
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|
|
Date
Issued: |
5/2/2003 |
Author: |
Ridenour,
Doug |
|
Time
Issued: |
6:00:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
Laci Peterson Memorial
Laci Peterson |
|
MODESTO, CA- On Sunday, the memorial for Laci and
Conner Peterson will be covered by pool media. A media
consortium of CNN, NBC, CBS, Fox, Modesto Bee and The
Associated Press has agreed to take the lead in organizing
the media pool coverage. The family has requested that
only the pool media attend the memorial, so proper respect
may be shown to their loved ones during this time. The
family of Laci Peterson has chosen to have a public
memorial service on May 4th, 2003 at 3:00 p.m. The
location of this memorial will be the First Baptist
Church, 1316 12th Street, Modesto (12th and M Streets).
The family chose this location since it can seat over 2000
people. The public is invited to share in this memorial
for Laci and Conner. Modesto Police Department will close
Tenth Street (west of the Police Department), between F
and G, so the media may park their vehicles at that
location. The public meeting room will be open and
available upon request for media use. A voice mail may be
left at the Police department's Media Relations office
209-572-9579 if you wish to avail yourself of these
facilities. Mike Dunbar, Modesto Bee at 209-578-2325, will
represent the pool still photography. Patty Guerra of the
Modesto Bee, 578-2343, will coordinate the print pool
media along with the Associated Press. The press Radio
pool has not been finalized at this point. Because of the
street closure surrounding the First Baptist Church, the
rest of the media are STRONGLY urged to watch and record
the service at the Modesto Police Department where ample
media truck parking will be available as well a mult-box
pool feed for audio. A large screen television and phone
lines will be available at the police department. A pool
satellite mult-box will be available for audio/video feed.
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Date
Issued: |
5/30/2003 |
Author: |
Smith, Gail |
|
Time
Issued: |
5:00:00 PM |
Division: |
Office of
the Chief of Police |
|
Importance: |
Information |
Location: |
Modesto, CA |
|
|
Police Respond to Peterson
Home
Laci Peterson |
|
Modesto, CA - Modesto Police responded to an alarm
at the Peterson home on Covena. On May 30, 2003 at approx.
10:00 am, the Modesto Police Department responded to an
alarm at the home of Scott and Laci Peterson on Covina
Ave. The alarm company reported that the Rocha family was
at the home. Officers responded, contacted members of the
Rocha family and learned that they were removing property
belonging to Laci Peterson. Both the Peterson and Rocha
families have been in discussions, along with their
attorneys, on how they would arrange for the transfer of
the property. The police have spoken to both families and
their attorneys and have determined this to be a civil
dispute. The Modesto Police Department has documented the
property in question as part of the civil dispute and does
not anticipate taking any further action at this time. If
you have any questions about this press release, please
contact Captain Greg Savelli at 209-572-9550 in the
Investigative Services Division.
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