Scared Monkeys Discussion Forum

AMBER ALERT issued for three brothers from Morenci, Michigan.

MORENCI, MICH. (WXYZ) - Police in Morenci, Michigan have issued an Amber Alert for three young brothers who are believed to be in extreme danger.

The boys' father sent them off with a woman he met on the internet to return them to their mother, but she never did.  Police have identified that woman as Joann Taylor. The boys' father is now in the hospital and the children, along with Taylor, are missing.

They were last seen on at 2:30p.m. Friday, November 26, 2010.

Alexander William Skelton is 7 years-old, 3' 9, 45 pounds and has brown eyes, brown hair and a scar on his chin . Tanner Skelton is 5 years-old, 3' 6 with blue eyes and blonde hair. Andrew Skelton is 9 years-old, 4'  with brown hair and brown eyes.

Joann Taylor is believed to be from either Jackson or Hillsdale, Michigan. She owns a silver van. Anyone who has seen the boys or knows Joann Taylor is asked to contact Morenci police immediately at (517) 263-0524.

http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/state/amber-alert-issued-for-three-btothers-from-morenci,-michigan. (http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/state/amber-alert-issued-for-three-btothers-from-morenci,-michigan.)

Amber Alert issued for 3 boys believed to be in extreme danger
Trio last seen with woman their dad met over the Internet

By ANDREA K. FARMER
FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER


An Amber Alert has been issued for three young boys in Lenawee County who are believed to be in extreme danger.

Andrew Ryan Skelton, 9, Alexander William Skelton, 7, and Tanner Lucas Skelton, 5, were reportedly last seen Friday at 2:30 p.m. with Joann Taylor, a woman whom their father met on the Internet.

The suspect was to return the children to their mother, but the children have been missing since. The father is currently in the hospital.

Taylor is believed to be a resident of either Jackson County or Hillsdale County and drives a silver van.

The missing children are all described as white males. Andrew is 4-ft. 1-in. tall, weighs 57-lbs. and has brown eyes and hair; Alexander is 3-ft. 9-in. tall, weighs 45-lbs., has brown eyes and hair and has a scar at his hairline and on his chin; Tanner is 3-ft. 6-in. tall with blue eyes and blond hair.

The Morenci Police Department is currently investigating.

If you have any information regarding the three missing children, the alleged abductor or the suspect’s vehicle, please call 911, the Morenci Police Department at 517-458-2323 or Lenawee County Dispatch at 517-263-0524.


http://www.freep.com/article/20101127/NEWS06/101127005/1008/Amber-Alert-issued-for-3-boys-believed-to-be-in-extreme-danger (http://www.freep.com/article/20101127/NEWS06/101127005/1008/Amber-Alert-issued-for-3-boys-believed-to-be-in-extreme-danger)

........After turning the children over to this woman, the father tried to take his own life. ........


http://www.wtol.com/Global/story.asp?S=13574023 (http://www.wtol.com/Global/story.asp?S=13574023)

http://www.lenconnect.com/breaking/x812950079/Morenci-police-search-for-three-brothers
Morenci police search for three brothers
November 27, 2010

MORENCI, Mich. —

Police say three Morenci brothers are in extreme danger after their father gave them to a woman Friday to have them given to their mother.

The boys’ father is now in the hospital after an apparent suicide attempt, police say, and the boys are missing.

According to an Amber Alert issued by the Morenci police, the children are Tanner Lucas Skelton, 5; Alexander William Skelton, 7; and Andrew Ryan Skelton, 9. They were last seen with a woman named Joann Taylor, who the boys’ father met online. The boys were last seen at about 2:30 p.m. Friday.

Taylor drives a silver van and is thought to be from Hillsdale or Jackson counties. Police say she is married to Mark Taylor, who might be a pastor.

The boys’ physical descriptions are:

— Tanner: 3 feet 6 inches tall, 40 pounds, blue eyes and blonde hair.

— Alexander: 3 feet 9 inches tall, 45 pounds, brown eyes and brown hair. He has a scar on his chin and a scar near his hairline.

— Andrew: 4 feet tall, 57 pounds, brown eyes and brown hair.

Anyone with information on the boys or the Taylors are asked to call 911 or the Morenci police at 458-7104

Emphasis added by me....


Police are looking for three missing Lenawee County boys

Police are looking for three boys who are missing out of Lenawee County.

Andrew Ryan Skelton, 9; Alexander William Skelton, 7; and Tanner Lucas Skelton, 5, were reported missing by their father early Friday morning, Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks said.

Weeks said the boys’ father, whose name has not been released, handed his sons over to a woman named Joann Taylor on Thursday night or early Friday morning.

They were last seen at 112 E. Congress St. in Morenci.

The father told police that Taylor is married to a man named Mark Taylor, who is believed to be a pastor in the Hillsdale or Jackson area.

Andrew is 4 feet, 1 inch weighs 45 pounds and has brown hair and brown eyes. Alexander is 3-9, weighs 45 pounds and has brown hair and brown eyes. Tanner is 3-6, weighs 40 pounds and has brown hair and blue eyes.

Police ask anyone with information on the whereabouts of the boys or Joann and Mark Taylor to contact the Morenci Police Department at 517-458-7104 or Lenawee County Dispatch at 517-263-0524.

http://www.mlive.com/news/jackson/index.ssf/2010/11/police_are_looking_for_three_m.html (http://www.mlive.com/news/jackson/index.ssf/2010/11/police_are_looking_for_three_m.html)

http://upfrontnewswire.com/781/update-1-michigan-authorities-search-for-three-missing-children/


(http://upfrontnewswire.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/AMBER_ALERT_issued_for0b762445-87bf-402d-a61e-cf56a57534680000_20101127081738_640_480-300x225.jpg)
(Credit: WXYZ-TV)

Some larger photos of the three missing boys:

http://www.freep.com/article/20101127/NEWS06/101127005/1318/Police-Missing-boys-last-seen-with-woman-that-dad-met-on-Internet
Amber Alert issued for 3 boys believed to be in extreme danger
Trio last seen with woman their dad met over the Internet
By ANDREA K. FARMER AND GINA DAMRON
November 27, 2010

(http://cmsimg.freep.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?Site=C4&Date=20101127&Category=NEWS06&ArtNo=101127005&Ref=AR&Profile=1318&MaxW=320&MaxH=300&Q=100&mime=jpeg)
Andrew Ryan Skelton, 9. An Amber Alert was issued Saturday, November 27, 2010, for Andrew Ryan Skelton, 9, Alexander William Skelton, 7, and Tanner Lucas Skelton, 5. The boys were last seen Friday at 2:30 p.m. with Joann Taylor, a woman whom their father met on the Internet. The suspect drives a silver van. (NCMEC)
(http://cmsimg.freep.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?Site=C4&Date=20101127&Category=NEWS06&ArtNo=101127005&Ref=V1&Profile=1318&MaxW=100&MaxH=100&Q=50)
(http://cmsimg.freep.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?Site=C4&Date=20101127&Category=NEWS06&ArtNo=101127005&Ref=V2&Profile=1318&MaxW=100&MaxH=100&Q=50)

An Amber Alert has been issued for three young boys in Lenawee County who are believed to be in extreme danger.
Andrew Ryan Skelton, 9, Alexander William Skelton, 7, and Tanner Lucas Skelton, 5, were reportedly last seen Friday at 2:30 p.m. with Joann Taylor, a woman whom their father, John Skelton, met on the Internet.

The suspect was to return the children to their mother, but the children have been missing since. Taylor is believed to be a resident of either Jackson County or Hillsdale County and drives a silver van.

Police say the father of the three boys has been hospitalized following a suicide attempt.

The missing children are all described as white males. Andrew is 4-ft. 1-in. tall, weighs 57-lbs. and has brown eyes and hair; Alexander is 3-ft. 9-in. tall, weighs 45-lbs., has brown eyes and hair and has a scar at his hairline and on his chin; Tanner is 3-ft. 6-in. tall with blue eyes and blond hair.

The Morenci Police Department is currently investigating and will hold a press conference at 2 p.m. today.

If you have any information regarding the three missing children, the alleged abductor or the suspect’s vehicle, please call 911, the Morenci Police Department at 517-458-2323 or Lenawee County Dispatch at 517-263-0524.

BLOCKED WEBSITE

http://www.freep.com/article/20101127/NEWS06/101127005/Amber-Alert-issued-for-3-boys-missing-in-Lenawee-County (http://www.freep.com/article/20101127/NEWS06/101127005/Amber-Alert-issued-for-3-boys-missing-in-Lenawee-County)


Some added details...

Amber Alert issued for 3
boys missing in Lenawee
County

 By GINA DAMRON and ANDREA K. FARMER
FREE PRESS STAFF WRITERS

 Police continue to search for three boys who
have been missing for two days in Lenawee
County.

An Amber Alert has been issued for Andrew Ryan
Skelton, 9, Alexander William Skelton, 7, and
Tanner Lucas Skelton, 5, who were reportedly
last seen Thursday in their father’s backyard at
his home in Morenci, a small town in Lenawee
County near the Ohio border.

Police said the father, John Skelton, 39,
attempted suicide by trying to hang himself
Friday.

Skelton told officers that he met a couple, Mark
and Joann Taylor, a few years ago when he
stopped to help them when they were having
vehicle trouble. Police said Skelton told them
that he kept in contact with the couple over the
years via the Internet.

The children’s mother had recently filed for
divorce and the boys had been visiting Skelton
over the holiday, police said. They said Skelton
told them he asked Joann Taylor to return the
kids to their mother in Lenawee County.

But police said today that they have no
information or location for a Joann Taylor. "We’v
e exhausted our resources at this point,"
Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks said.

Police said Skelton has been hospitalized since
his suicide attempt. A friend of the boys’
grandparents said Skelton is a long-haul truck
driver.
 The missing children are all described as white
males. Andrew is 4 foot 1, weighs 57 pounds and
has brown eyes and hair. Alexander is 3 foot 9,
weighs 45 pounds, has brown eyes and hair and
has a scar at his hairline and on his chin. Tanner
is 3 foot 6 with blue eyes and blond hair.

In addition to the Morenci Police Department,
agents with the FBI and Michigan State Police
officials are involved in the investigation.

Police said any information regarding the
missing children, the alleged abductor or the
suspect’s vehicle should be reported by calling
911, the Morenci Police Department at 517-458-
2323 or Lenawee County Dispatch at 517-263-
0524.

Thank you for the update and additional information ka8lhi.  I hope the three young Skelton brothers are found safe and found soon!

BLOCKED WEBSITE

http://www.cnn.com/2010/CRIME/11/27/michigan.missing.children/
3 Michigan boys missing after father drops them off to attempt suicide
November 27, 2010

Police and neighbors were searching for three young Michigan boys Saturday who have been missing since their father claimed he dropped them off with a woman before trying to kill himself a day earlier.

The father survived his suicide attempt and is now being cared for in a mental health facility, according to Morenci, Michigan, Police Chief Larry Weeks said Saturday.

But Michigan authorities do not know what has happened to his boys -- 5-year-old Tanner Skelton, 7-year-old Alexander William Skelton and 9-year-old Andrew Skelton -- prompting them to issue an Amber Alert on Friday.

Weeks said that the boy's father, John Skelton, told police that he dropped the boys off Friday morning with a woman he identified as Joann Taylor -- in part to ensure they didn't see him while and after he tried to commit suicide.

John Skelton told police that the woman, whom he allegedly met on the internet, was supposed to drop the boys off at their home in Morenci, a small town on the Ohio border about 40 miles west of Toledo, around 3 p.m. Friday.

But the boys never went home and, Weeks added, authorities still aren't sure if John Skelton's story -- including Joann Taylor's existence -- is true or a fabrication.

"We have not been able to locate a Joann Taylor or confirm that she even exists," Weeks told reporters Saturday evening.

The last non-family member saw the boys at 5 p.m. on Thursday, according to the chief.

Their mother, Tanya, has been with police "virtually the entire day" on Saturday, answering questions and serving as what Weeks called a "valuable resource at this time."

Weeks said Tanya Skelton had "contact with someone alleging to be Joann," adding only that this communication was not necessarily by phone or in person.

According to the Amber Alert, Taylor may have been from Jackson or Hillsdale counties and may be driving a silver van. Still, Weeks reiterated that they have yet to confirm she is real and, if so, if she is with the boys.

Saturday's press conference was crowded with media and residents of Morenci, many of whom have been searching spots for signs of the young boys. But he said authorities have little concrete evidence to point community members to places where the young Skeltons might be.

"We understand their drive and desire to be out there," said Weeks. "The fact is, I cannot tell the community there's a specific location they should be searching."

The alert notes that Tanner is 3 feet, 6 inches tall, has strawberry blond hair, has blue eyes and weighs about 40 pounds. Alexander is 3 feet, 9 inches tall, has brown hair and eyes, and weighs about 45 pounds. The older brother, Andrew, is 4 feet, 1 inch tall, has brown hair and eyes and weighs roughly 57 pounds.

It's sounding worse and worse with every article I'm reading.  It appears LE are trying to determine when the last time someone other than their father saw the three brothers.  And now they're not even sure if the story the John Skelton (the father) is telling is true, and if Joann Taylor, the woman he allegedly handed the children off to even exists.  I'm so very afraid for the boys.  They could have been gone for longer than originally reported/thought.  It looks like people have been searching for the boys, even though there isn't a specific area to search yet.  They just want to try to find them. 

http://www.lenconnect.com/features/x812950079/Morenci-police-search-for-three-brothers
Morenci police search for three brothers
Posted Nov 27, 2010 @ 08:24 PM
Last update Nov 27, 2010 @ 09:11 PM
MORENCI, Mich. —

Three young boys from Morenci remained missing Saturday evening while police sought clues as to their whereabouts.

According to an Amber Alert issued by the Morenci police, the missing children are Tanner Lucas Skelton, 5; Alexander William Skelton, 7; and Andrew Ryan Skelton, 9.

Police said Saturday they consider the brothers to be in extreme danger.

Their father, John Skelton of Morenci, said he turned the boys over to someone named Joann Taylor to take to their mother on Friday, then he attempted to commit suicide by hanging himself, Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks said.

John Skelton now is in an Ohio hospital.

Skelton called an acquaintance after his failed suicide attempt and the acquaintance took him to a medical center, Weeks said.

Meanwhile, Weeks said during a press conference Saturday evening that he is not sure Joann Taylor even exists.

“We cannot confirm that that person exists,” Weeks said.

The boys’ mother, Tanya Skelton, also of Morenci, called Morenci police after the boys were not returned to her at 3 p.m. Friday as she said the were supposed to be, Weeks said.

John and Tanya Skelton are married but separated, Weeks said.

John Skelton told police that Joann Taylor lives in Hillsdale County or the Jackson area, but police have not been able to find an address for her or her husband, whom John Skelton told police is named Mark Taylor.

Morenci police, Michigan State Police, FBI agents and the Lenawee County Sheriff’s department are all involved in looking for the boys, Weeks said.

John Skelton reportedly met Joann Taylor and her husband when their vehicle was broken down by the side of the road. He then reportedly maintained contact with her via the Internet, Weeks said.

At the press conference Saturday, Kathye Herrera, a neighbor and family friend of the Skeltons, said family members are “very  distressed.”
(snip)

So it does get worse ... here are some web sites showing the mother is Tanya Lynn Skelton - with a relative of John Russell Skelton...to hard to copy and not sure how to do a screen shot...but the bolded link is the one I'm worried about...

http://www.peoplesmart.com/psp.aspx?_act=resultsgo&aff=34&search=name&FirstName=Tanya&MiddleName=Lynn&LastName=Skelton&City=Morenci&State=MI (http://www.peoplesmart.com/psp.aspx?_act=resultsgo&aff=34&search=name&FirstName=Tanya&MiddleName=Lynn&LastName=Skelton&City=Morenci&State=MI)

http://www.life360.com/sex-offender-tanya-skelton-morenci-mi (http://www.life360.com/sex-offender-tanya-skelton-morenci-mi)

Re: Please describe ''CSC 4th degree (multiple variables)


THE MICHIGAN PENAL CODE (EXCERPT)


Act 328 of 1931


750.520e Criminal sexual conduct in the fourth degree; misdemeanor.

Sec. 520e.


(1) A person is guilty of criminal sexual conduct in the fourth degree if he or she engages in sexual contact with another person and if any of the following circumstances exist:


(a) That other person is at least 13 years of age but less than 16 years of age, and the actor is 5 or more years older than that other person.


(b) Force or coercion is used to accomplish the sexual contact. Force or coercion includes, but is not limited to, any of the following circumstances:


(i) When the actor overcomes the victim through the actual application of physical force or physical violence.


(ii) When the actor coerces the victim to submit by threatening to use force or violence on the victim, and the victim believes that the actor has the present ability to execute that threat.


(iii) When the actor coerces the victim to submit by threatening to retaliate in the future against the victim, or any other person, and the victim believes that the actor has the ability to execute that threat. As used in this subparagraph, “to retaliate” includes threats of physical punishment, kidnapping, or extortion.


(iv) When the actor engages in the medical treatment or examination of the victim in a manner or for purposes which are medically recognized as unethical or unacceptable.


(v) When the actor achieves the sexual contact through concealment or by the element of surprise.


(c) The actor knows or has reason to know that the victim is mentally incapable, mentally incapacitated, or physically helpless.


(d) That other person is related to the actor by blood or affinity to the third degree and the sexual contact occurs under circumstances not otherwise prohibited by this chapter. It is an affirmative defense to a prosecution under this subdivision that the other person was in a position of authority over the defendant and used this authority to coerce the defendant to violate this subdivision. The defendant has the burden of proving this defense by a preponderance of the evidence. This subdivision does not apply if both persons are lawfully married to each other at the time of the alleged violation.


(e) The actor is a mental health professional and the sexual contact occurs during or within 2 years after the period in which the victim is his or her client or patient and not his or her spouse. The consent of the victim is not a defense to a prosecution under this subdivision. This does not indicate that the victim is mentally incompetent.


(2) Criminal sexual conduct in the fourth degree is a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 2 years or a fine of not more than $500.00, or both.



William Morrison
Action Defense Center
4000 Livernois, Suite 140
Troy, MI 48098-4712
http://www.lawguru.com/legal-questions/michigan-criminal-law/describe-csc-th-degree-multiple-451129243/a (http://www.lawguru.com/legal-questions/michigan-criminal-law/describe-csc-th-degree-multiple-451129243/a)

Here's a picture of John and Tanya Skelton from Morenci, Michigan - now I can't be sure it is the correct John and Tanya but since Morenci isn't that big - what are the chances there is another couple with the same name??

http://allrecipes.com/Cook/18082262/Photos.aspx (http://allrecipes.com/Cook/18082262/Photos.aspx)

About this Cook
I am a 39 yr. old stay-at-home mother of 6: 3 girls; ages 18, 14, 12, and 3 boys; ages 4, , 0. Five are my own and 1 is my step daughter. The 3 boys are my husband's and mine together. We also have a cat named Shadow
http://allrecipes.com/Cook/18082262/

Known Alias(es)  Tanya Lynn Skelton
Tanya Lynn Zuvers
Tanya Lynn Derby
http://www.mipsor.state.mi.us/PSORSearchDetails.aspx?oid=10407971
 
something is way off here, a suicidal parent and a S.O. parent

Scary stuff. 

From the AllRecipies and I believe it is them:

(http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o100/klaasen3/Sub9%20June%202010/TanyaSkelton.jpg)

From the Sex Offender Registry - same person:

(http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o100/klaasen3/Sub9%20June%202010/TanyaSkeltonSO.jpg)

I read this story late last night.  I did not have time to research the players so thanks to all the monkeys that did that. As a Michigan resident with a history of being involved in the criminal and legal system, IMO this woman was charged with a much higher crime. The prosecutors here in Michigan seem to think that SO and the crimes are not that big of a deal. I know of SO with 8 to ten victims under the age of 15 that are either not prosecuted or plea out and only serve a sentence for one or two of the victims.

As a point of interest, Morenci is only about 40 miles from were Nevaeh was murdered at. WTH is going on down there?

To add to my last post - even worse is that in Michigan (I am not sure about the rest of the country) there is no restriction on computer use or access to children once you get off parole/probation.

This is disturbing - I found it on a myspace wall that belongs to a John Skelton in Morenci Michigan. http://www.myspace.com/bonesdoesit

The Dumpster

 

Hello mama, I see your fuzzy face

I hear your heart beat

And feel your warm embrace

I feel you tremble

Don't be scared

(chorus)

What did I do mom

What did I say

To make you put me down and run away

Are you late for school, well that can wait

I'm your little boy so mom please stay

 

I'm cold and alone in this metal room

With plastic bags and a worn out broom

Nobody hears my call for you

Come back mommy 'cause I need you

(chorus)

It's my dying breath and I see a glow

It's an Angel from Heaven

And he's taking me home.

John Skelton

This looks to be mom's myspace page - http://www.myspace.com/craftybikermom  The picture looks a lot like her and she is friends with dad

(http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o100/klaasen3/Sub9%20June%202010/JohnSkelton.jpg)

(http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o100/klaasen3/Sub9%20June%202010/Skeltons.jpg)


http://www.myspace.com/craftybikermom


(http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o100/klaasen3/Sub9%20June%202010/Bikermom.jpg)

IMO, they are both sick people.  What did he do with those children?

http://www.wtma.com/rssItem.asp?feedid=118&itemid=29603097

(http://abcnewsradioonline.com/storage/news-images/N_112810_MissingMichBoys.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1290955388121)

New Details in Michigan Missing Children Case

(MORENCI, Mich.) -- Police in southern Michigan say three missing boys may be in extreme danger after their father attempted suicide.  The boys haven't been seen since before they were supposed to be dropped off at their mother's home Friday afternoon.  The father apparently claimed he left them with a woman he met over the internet, named Joann Taylor. He said he didn't want them in the house when he hanged himself.  Authorities have not been able to locate Taylor or the silver van she is supposed to have been driving.

John Skelton, 39, of Morenci, Mich., is being treated for "mental health issues" at an Ohio hospital.  Authorities issued an Amber Alert for his sons, who are 5, 7 and 9 years old.  Their names are Andrew, Alexander and Tanner.  Skelton has not been named as a suspect in the boys' disappearance but police say he has not been ruled out either.  Skelton is separated from the boy's mother.

He told authorities he had an online relationship with Taylor and that she lives in either Hillsdale or Jackson County but authorities haven't been able to confirm a woman by that name even exists.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40402307/ns/us_news-life
Cops: 3 boys missing after dad's suicide bid
Truck driver claims he gave children to Mich. woman; police can't confirm that she exists
November 28, 2010

(snip)
An Amber Alert was issued Friday for Skelton's sons: 9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner.
 
When asked if Skelton was a suspect in the boys' disappearance, Weeks said: "We haven't ruled anything out, yet."

Skelton, who reportedly is a long-haul truck driver, said he met Taylor several years ago and that the two had been involved in an online relationship. She was believed to live in Jackson or Hillsdale counties in southern Michigan.

But officers Saturday had no success tracking down a woman by that name or the silver van Skelton said she was driving.

"The bulk of our action has been putting together a timeline and trying to locate this Joann Taylor," said Weeks, whose agency was joined in the search by Michigan State Police and the FBI.

The Detroit Free Press reported that residents of Morenci searched parks, bike trails, in hollowed-out trees and along the banks of a creek for the missing boys on Saturday.

Kathye Herrera, who is serving as a spokeswoman for the family, told the newspaper that relatives were "hoping and praying and trying to stay positive."

In MY OPINION this male who called himself a father has done something really bad with his boys.  There is no Taylor woman.  WTH is their mother doing sexually with a 13 to 16 yr old child and has been convicted of but  still have children with her?  What is going on?  The whole case stinks.  These poor cute little boys.  Even if dad is telling the truth(and I do doubt there is a Taylor woman) how do you just hand your kids over to a woman you've only had internet contact with?  Committing suicide and not accomplishing it is a cover to me.  Don't mean to sound so harsh but...there are 3 beautiful little boys lost and out there in the cold alone.

Another example of kids slipping through the cracks   ::MonkeyNoNo::   Re: Please describe ''CSC 4th degree (multiple variables) thank-you for posting that, I'm ill just reading this  ::MonkeyNoNo::  There was no way these children should have been around their mother, and not around their father either it looks like  ::MonkeyNoNo::  IMO

With the mom's conviction for 4th degree sexual criminal conduct, what must the father have done that made the state grant this POS mom full custody of these boys? 

Sounds to me that neither the mom nor the dad were fit parents.

I would hate to even know. When I read that there were searches going on even in hollowed out trees, my heart sank.  ::MonkeyNoNo::

melisb-  I don't find your post harsh, not at all.  ITA, the whole case stinks!!  Where are the three brothers? 

BLOCKED WEBISTE

http://toledoblade.com/article/20101128/NEWS16/101129625
Investigators issue plea for information about missing Morenci boys
November 28, 2010

MORENCI, Mich. — Law enforcement officials on Sunday issued a plea and set up a hotline seeking information about three Morenci boys who've been missing for three days

"We need calls. We need tips," Andy Arena, a special agent with the FBI, said at a morning news conference. "Anything that's out there — no matter how incredible you think it is — call."

The hotline is 517-458-7104. Investigators are hoping for information about the whereabouts of Andrew Ryan Skelton, 9, Alexander William Skelton, 7, and Tanner Lucas Skelton, 5, who were reportedly last seen Friday in their father's backyard at his home in Morenci, police Chief Larry Weeks has said.

The chief said the boys' father, John Skelton, 39, attempted to hang himself Friday. He told police he made the attempt sometime after giving his sons to a woman he knows.
On Sunday morning, investigators passed out new color flyers with the boys' pictures on them.

They also had volunteer firefighters from 12 departments in Ohio and Michigan and hundreds of other volunteers out searching areas around Morenci looking for the brothers. Morenci is about 40 miles west of Toledo just north of the Ohio-Michigan state line.

The search crews on Sunday were focusing on Harrison Lake Park near Fayette in Ohio as well as wooded areas along Lime Creek Highway and an area golf course.

Authorities said they had no concrete information the boys would be at any of the locations but described them as places they had been seen at in the past.

Steve Meller, a Morenci firefighter who was coordinating volunteer efforts, said Mr. Skelton has been known to hunt in some of the areas where searchers were looking.

Mr. Skelton told officers he gave the three boys to a woman named Joann Taylor and asked her Friday morning to deliver the boys to their mother, Tanya Skelton. The Skeltons are separated and in the midst of a divorce.

"Up to this point we have not been able to locate a Joann Taylor or confirm that she even exists," Chief Weeks said on Saturday. "We can't confirm whether or not it is a fake story."

A car was towed from the Skelton home Saturday night, which Chief Weeks said was part of routine evidence preservation.

A community prayer vigil was scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Sunday in the Morenci United Methodist Church, 111 East Main St.

The missing boys are white. Andrew is 4 feet 1 inch, weighs 57 pounds and has brown eyes and hair. Alexander is 3 feet 9 inches, weighs 45 pounds, has brown eyes and hair and has a scar at his hairline and on his chin. Tanner is 3 feet 6 inches with blue eyes and blond hair.

BLOCKED WEBSITE

FBI and the National Guard needs to be in on this one....

Don't know about the Nat'l Guard, but the FBI is already involved, per above article posted.  



BLOCKED WEBSITE

This is making me sick!

If the mother had nothing to do with this, I do feel sorry for her and my heart goes out to her - even if she is a S.O. - no one deserves to have anything happen to their kids! The reason I say this is my heart tells me the father probably did something to them (the boys) to get back at the mother for the divorce and then tried suicide - either because he felt so bad about what he did or else because he didn't want to go to jail for murder - it is just my opinion and I'm probably way, way off...

Sadly I agree

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Dad's explanation for giving the boys to the lady makes no sense. If he didn't want the boys to see him commit suicide all he had to do was return them to mom and go back and do it.No need for the lady at all.

I know - it just does not make sense to me. Why not just take the boys back to mom and have at it? I wonder if it was supposed to be a murder/suicide type event but he did not have the guts to finish it? I hope not but it sure seems to fit.

Sorry folks, I don't agree.  Although I don't know who's child this convicted sex offender harmed, but her having an achy breaky heart doesn't touch me at all.  25 years to have to register says volumes to me.
Mean no offense to any monkey . . . just my honest opinion.
Leaving for my prayer closet . . . this is a down on the knees situation for these precious children.

I should have been more specific.  I was agreeing to the bolded above.  I think the dad harmed the kids.  Both of these people are BAD IMO.

BLOCKED WEBSITE

Yes, very bad.  Can't figure what kind of person gives their children to a stranger (for all practical purposes) . . . if she even exists.  Oh, I know what kind of people . . . imaginary couple Elizabeth gave Gabriel to . . . the imaginary nanny who took care of Caylee (although no one other than momster ever saw her) . . . and the sex offender parents . . . Lord, the list is so very, very long.

The BoyZ, the silence is deafening, isn't it?

It is very deafening. I was just telling hubby and 17 year old about it and they agree - where are the people looking for 15 minutes of fame talking about the "wonderful guy"?

Am IO jaded or realistic? Having been on this sie for awhile, and having read of so many devastating situations, I immediately felt the three boys are no longer with us.  I am even questioning the suicide attempt.  Hanging failed so you call a friend to get help?  I think he wasn't able to follow through with the suicide and now must really cover his tracks.

 I hope I am jaded and that the boys are alive.  I remember a case of horrendous sexual abuse of an eight year old girl.  When she told her mother, father immediately checked himself into a mental health facility and got a lawyer.  All in the same day the child told.

Real life is generally much simpler than all the drama and stories told around missing children.

MOO

Terri

BBM   If that is the case, I am also jaded, I feel the same...sadly.    ::MonkeyNoNo::

Geez, I just heard about this and it is 35 minutes from me.  My sister lives in Lenawee County and has 3 boys about the same age as these poor little guys.  I have a message into her to see what the locals are saying - if anything.  Morenci is a very small town so everyone knows eveyone somehow.

Praying for the best for these boys...but I dont have a good feeling about it   ::MonkeyNoNo:: 

More than 200 gather at vigil in Morenci for missing boys

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101128/NEWS16/101129625

The whole state of Michigan needs to get a clue regarding Sex Offenders --  they just dont take it seriously enough IMO. 

Unfortunately I'm dealing with a situation very close to me involving a registered SO and the stories I could tell are unbelievable  ::MonkeyMad:: 

Here in Oregon as well. Apparently if you go through the classes you get to have unrestricted, unsupervised time with your kids.Oh, you still have to register though! I would believe all you tell me as we are going through it also. IMO? It's carp! and needs to be fixed!

Nana  - I am sorry to hear you are going through something like it.  It is so frustrating and I feel your pain.

In my situation, the RSO is only 13 years old!!!!  I do not believe these people can be rehabilitated so this kid will be on the news someday, that I'm sure of.

The search resumes at 8am tomorrow.  I am unable to make it by then, but I'm going to call in the morning and see what, if any, supplies they need. I'm sure they at least need water (and probably some hot coffee since its freezing out) and take it up there tomorrow.

(http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=TO&Date=20101128&Category=NEWS16&ArtNo=112809996&Ref=PH&Item=5&Title=1&Maxw=800&Maxh=800&Q=95)

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=TO&Date=20101128&Category=NEWS16&ArtNo=112809996&Ref=PH&Params=Itemnr=5

(http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=TO&Date=20101128&Category=NEWS16&ArtNo=112809996&Ref=PH&Item=9&Title=1&Maxw=800&Maxh=800&Q=95)

A group of searchers fan out Sunday along Ranger Highway in Morenci, Mich., as they search for the missing Skelton children.
THE BLADE/DAVE ZAPOTOSKY

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=TO&Date=20101128&Category=NEWS16&ArtNo=112809996&Ref=PH&Params=Itemnr=9



 


 

(http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=TO&Date=20101128&Category=NEWS16&ArtNo=112809996&Ref=PH&Item=10&Title=1&Maxw=800&Maxh=800&Q=95)

Searchers were told to stay within 10 feet of each other and move in the same direction. They were to look for anything that seemed suspicious but not to touch any objects they found.
THE BLADE/DAVE ZAPOTOSKY
 
http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=TO&Date=20101128&Category=NEWS16&ArtNo=112809996&Ref=PH&Params=Itemnr=10


 

Thanks, I am praying close observation of one involved will be enough, it is all we can do. God is watching over, I know!
This one started young as well, so many layers over the last 10 years, *sigh*.

I (of course) am not close to you all, but I will be up holding you in prayer. Be careful.

Leroy - did I know we are neighbors? I agree that Michigan is AFU about SO. No matter what this 13 year old does or has done, until he is 18 he will not be on the RSO public list. If he is  not "adjudicated" of anything but CSC 1 he will NEVER be on the public registry for SO. I know, I am there with a kid that started at about 10, arrested at 13.  Sad that there is no restrictions on his behavior nor any way for anyone to know he is a SO unless they know the family. It makes me sick.

Something just jumped out at me - does anyone else find it strange that he asks for his wife's forgiveness but not his boys?

I found that strange myself....along with the fact that he only had his boys for a short time that weekend so why not just wait till they went back to their mother beforing attempting suicide (which I believe he was never going to carry out).

Part of me wants to believe these boys are safe because it seems like he was begging for attention from his wife...probably to win her back andor stop the divorce proceedings.  Hurting the kids certainly wouldn't accomplish that would it? 

There again, the mother is not a stellar citizen herself so I dont know.

This is breaking my heart.
Please, Lord, hold these 3 little boys closely.
Amen.

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/story?section=news/local&id=7814019

Search resumes for 3 young Michigan brothers
Monday, November 29, 2010

MORENCI, MI -- Neighbors of three Michigan boys who were last seen the day before their father tried to commit suicide are holding onto hope that the children will be found safe, even though investigators believe the boys are in "extreme danger."

Police in Morenci, about 75 miles southwest of Detroit, resumed their search Monday for 5-year-old Tanner, 7-year-old Alexander and 9-year-old Andrew Skelton. A prayer vigil was held for the boys Sunday night after the FBI, police and numerous volunteers scoured fields, farmland and wooded areas near the Ohio-Michigan border.

The boys' father, 39-year-old John Skelton, was being treated at a hospital in Ohio for "mental health issues" after he tried to hang himself Friday, Police Chief Larry Weeks said. When asked if Skelton was a suspect in his sons' disappearance, Weeks said: "We haven't ruled anything out yet."

Authorities said John Skelton claimed that he gave the boys to a female friend before he attempted suicide, but officers haven't been able to confirm whether the woman exists.

The boys were last seen Thursday and reported missing the next day by their mother, Tanya Skelton, Weeks said. A family friend said the boys were with their father as part of court-ordered visitation and their parents were going through a divorce.

FBI child abduction teams and behavioral science experts, along with planes and search dogs, aided in the search Sunday.

That night, about 200 people gathered for a prayer vigil at a church in Morenci, a small, mostly blue-collar and farming community just north of the Ohio state line. Lights were strung on poles along the town's main street, and festive decorations adorned windows in some of the shops and eateries in town.

Friends said the Skelton boys also started celebrating the holidays early by making greeting cards. One of the older brothers wrote "Jesus is awesome" on his and drew a Nativity scene, said Kathye Herrera, a friend of Tanya Skelton who is serving as the family's spokeswoman.

"They love church. They love the interaction, and they know all about Jesus," Herrera said.

Herrera said the boys' parents have been married for 10 years but are in the process of getting a divorce. She said that earlier this year, John Skelton picked his two older sons up from school and took them to Florida, but later returned to Michigan. Custody was awarded to Tanya Skelton, though John Skelton "had been seeing the boys with no issues," Herrera said.

Herrera said Tanya Skelton attends a local college or community college and John Skelton was a long-haul truck driver who hasn't been working in while.

John Skelton's mother, Roxann Skelton of Jacksonville, Fla., told the Detroit Free Press that her son wouldn't hurt his children. She didn't return a phone message from The Associated Press.

"I know my son, he's not a monster," she told the newspaper. "He's a good son and he would not harm his boys. I know those children are, you know, still with us."

Authorities said John Skelton told investigators Friday that he wanted the boys out of his house when he committed suicide, and asked a woman named Joann Taylor to take them to their mother. John Skelton claimed that he met Taylor several years ago and the two had been involved in an online relationship, and she likely lived in southern Michigan.

But officers haven't been able to find a woman by that name or the silver van that Skelton said she was driving.

The weekend search for the boys extended to an Ohio state park just south of the Michigan state line, according to the sheriff's office in Fulton County, Ohio. The FBI got involved Friday, shortly after being contacted by Michigan authorities, said Andrew Arena, head of the agency's Detroit office.

Many of those who attended Sunday night's vigil tried to hold back tears, though others allowed them to flow freely. As "Silent Night" and other Christmas hymns played, each filed slowly past the altar, lighting small white candles before returning to the pews to continue prayers for the boys' safe return.

"Give us courage to face our fears," church Lay Leader Bob Dister said as part of a short prayer before leading into "The Lord's Prayer."

He wept as the vigil ended.

Klaas you'd know more about this but wouldn't they be able to find this Taylor woman by her ISP if she exists. Surely the took his computer.

http://www.wtol.com/Global/story.asp?S=13580161

Morning search for 3 boys is delayed in Morenci, MI
 
Posted by gotcha Monday, November 29, 2010 at 9:12 AM
Labels: Alexander, Andrew Skelton, Tanner

MORENCI, MI (WTOL) - Police and area residents gathered Monday morning to resume a search for three missing boys in Morenci, MI.
The search was scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. However, volunteers were told to hold off on beginning the search due to new developments under investigation.

WTOL's Dan Bumpus has been in Morenci all morning. He says no details have yet been given on what the developments may be.

http://www.wtol.com/global/category.asp?c=170190

There is suppose to be a news conference at 11:00 AM Should be able to see it at the above site

Thank you, SQ.

http://www.wtol.com/global/story.asp?s=13580161
Search for 3 Morenci boys is moving to Pioneer, OH
Posted: Nov 29, 2010 7:36 AM CST Updated: Nov 29, 2010 9:54 AM CST

Search continues for 3 missing Morenci boys
Morning search for 3 boys is delayed in Morenci, MI


UPDATE: All volunteers are being asked to drive to Pioneer, OH to resume the search there. We'll have more details after an 11 a.m. news conference.
************************************************************
MORENCI, MI (WTOL) - Police and area residents gathered Monday morning to resume a search for three missing boys in Morenci, MI.

The search was scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. However, volunteers were told to hold off on beginning the search due to new developments under investigation.

WTOL's Dan Bumpus has been in Morenci all morning. He says no details have yet been given on what the developments may be.

For now, the search remains on hold.

http://www.freep.com/article/20101129/NEWS06/101129012/1318/Volunteer-search-halted-for-3-missing-brothers
Volunteer search halted for 3 missing Morenci brothers
News conference scheduled for 11 a.
Posted: 10:22 a.m. Nov. 29, 2010 | Updated: 10:47 a.m. today

MORENCI -- The public search for three missing brothers in Morenci is on hold, according to citizen volunteers.

Bill Foster, who has been helping to lead the search efforts by community members, said law enforcement officials informed citizens at about 8:15 a.m.

"We're just on hold," he said. "That's all they're telling us."

Local law enforcement officials are still searching and headed out around 10:30 a.m.

A news conference is scheduled for 11 a.m. at the Morenci Fire Department.

Some volunteers and friends of the boys' family said officials were saying the FBI, which is assisting in the investigation, was following up on tips and searching in Kunkle, Ohio.
(snip)
Haley Simpkins, 23, who said she is a friend of Tanya Skelton's older daughters from a previous marriage, said she was told law enforcement officials spent the night speaking to John Skelton, who is being treated at a mental health facility.

More than 200 citizens, including out of towners from Ohio and Indiana, signed up to join search parties today.

Volunteers and fire department workers from across the region were still waiting for direction just after 10 a.m.

According to a white board at the Morenci Fire Department, the search areas of focus include a gravel pit.

About the only thing that came out of the news conference is that there is NO Joann Taylor and that they are moving the search to Ohio.

Could some kind monkey keep us up to date on the PC. Unfortunately I have slow dial up and can't watch it. Thanks in advance.

Thank you, SuzieQ.  It's just heartbreaking  ::MonkeyTears:: 

Yes thank-you for all the updates, Ohio? Wonder if there are some relatives maybe living there?

http://www.freep.com/article/20101129/NEWS06/101129012/Chief-Boys-dad-lied-about-relationship-with-woman
Chief: Boys' dad lied about relationship with woman
November 29, 2010

MORENCI -- Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks confirmed today that the father of three missing boys lied about a relationship with a Jackson woman whom he told authorities he turned his boys over to so they wouldn’t commit suicide.
Weeks said at a news conference police found no established relationship between the father and the woman he described as Joann Taylor.

“We can confirm that there’s no established relationship between he and the person he described as Joann Taylor,” Weeks said.

The chief today asked the public’s help to see if any of them saw Weeks’ car from 2:30 p.m. Thursday to 1:30 p.m. Friday, but specifically from 4 a.m. to 7 am. Friday. He said authorities have information that the vehicle was not at home during some of that time and believe the boys were in the car that morning or the evening before.

The blue 2000 Dodge Caravan was towed from Skelton’s home and has a license place of 9JQ H93.

Weeks said authorities continue to have conversations with John Skelton about his missing children and have executed searches at the home and collected “things from the home to assist us with the investigation.”

In response to a question, he would not specifically confirm whether Skelton’s computer had been confiscated. Skelton told police he had stayed in touch with a Joann Taylor from the Jackson area who he met several years ago during a vehicle breakdown with her husband, and that’s who he turned his missing children over to.

Weeks said officials are searching in Ohio in the areas of Kunkle, Unity, West Unity and Holiday City.

He would not answer a question as to whether either side of the family has a connection to that area. Neither would Kathye Herrera, a spokeswoman for the family.

Asked whether authorities are optimistic the children will be found safe, Weeks said:

“We remain hopeful ... that we are going to find them and bring them home.”
Officials continue to search

Meanwhile, the public search for three missing brothers in Morenci is on hold, according to citizen volunteers.

Bill Foster, who has been helping to lead the search efforts by community members, said law enforcement officials informed citizens at about 8:15 a.m.

"We're just on hold," he said. "That's all they're telling us."

Local law enforcement officials are still searching and headed out around 10:30 a.m.

Some volunteers and friends of the boys' family said officials were saying the FBI, which is assisting in the investigation, was following up on tips and searching in Kunkle, Ohio.

Andrew Ryan Skelton, 9, Alexander William Skelton, 7, and Tanner Lucas Skelton, 5, went to their dad’s house in Morenci on Wednesday, were last seen in the backyard Thursday and, by Friday, were missing.

Their father, John Skelton, claims he gave the boys to a woman named Joann Taylor before he attempted to hang himself, but was unsuccessful. Skelton said he met Taylor years ago when she and her husband were having vehicle trouble.

Skelton, family friends have said, was a long-haul trucker.

Skelton's wife, Tanya Skelton, had recently filed for divorce, according to friends.

Haley Simpkins, 23, who said she is a friend of Tanya Skelton's older daughters from a previous marriage, said she was told law enforcement officials spent the night speaking to John Skelton, who is being treated at a mental health facility.

More than 200 citizens, including out of towners from Ohio and Indiana, signed up to join search parties today.

Volunteers and fire department workers from across the region were still waiting for direction just after 10 a.m.

According to a white board at the Morenci Fire Department, the search areas of focus include a gravel pit.

Thanks

I was thinking the same thing. Why would he care what the ex-wife thinks, he should ask for the kids' forgiveness, as it should be what's the most important to him and would REALLY be emotionally hurt if he had committed the suicide.

I am so anxious to hear how the "suicide" went. How is it that he didn't die? Who found him, and what was his demeanor?

IF there was communication with the Joann Taylor (maybe related somehow to Zanny the Nanny?) then there should be proof in his hard drive, phone records, and any witness he could care call.

He tried to hang himself and when the attempt failed called a friend to take him to a hospital.

I hope LE has taken a serious look in to this and discussed with Mr. Skelton.  Quite descriptive...may be important clues. 

http://statelineobserver.com/its-life/the-search-continues/

For the websluths (moderators remove if needed), there is a listing in Morenci for a Tanya L. Skelton and a John R. Skelton living at 112 E. Congress St., Morenci.

Most possibly, she is the one residing in the home.

I wonder why his name hasn't been published, and if it has anything to do with he being in a mental ward. He should be a POI, and maybe the only one, now that his Zanny the Nanny is said to be of the imaginary kind.

I find it even more disturbing knowing now that Tanya Skelton is currently attending school.

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/story?section=news/local&id=7814475


"Still hopeful" in search for Morenci boys
Monday, November 29, 2010
 

MORENCI, MI (WTVG) -- A news conference was held this morning at the Morenci, MI, fire department.

Larry Weeks, Morenci police chief, says that they are now searching for tips regarding sightings of a 2000 blue Dodge Caravan that was missing from the boys' home sometime during 2:30 p.m. Thursday to 1:30 p.m. Friday. They have the van in their possession, but are SEEKING HELP from anyone who may have seen the vehicle in WILLIAMS COUNTY, specifically West Unity, Kunkle, Pioneer or Holiday City Ohio. Authorities are following all leads.

The search for the boys has been moved to Williams Co., Ohio, but volunteer searchers should still report initially to the Morenci fire department to take part. A command post has been established at the fire department in Pioneer, OH. Aircraft are coming in today to assist in the search. The spokesperson says they remain hopeful about the boys' safety.

Related Photos
(http://cdn.abclocal.go.com/images/wtvg/cms_exf_2007/news/local/vanside.jpg)
Van in missing Morenci boys case

At noon, 13abc's Alexis Means reports from the scene that a search is taking place at Lazy River Campground near Pioneer. While there are 50-60 seasonal campers parked there, all are empty. The 64-acre campground includes ponds and woods.

The reported relationship between Mr. Skelton and a woman purportedly named Joann Taylor has been dismissed as a possible lead. Earlier reports of a silver van connected to the missing boys may have been part of the lie put forth by Skelton.

Skelton remains in custody in an undisclosed mental health facility. His injuries from his suicide attempt were limited to a minor ankle fracture.

Anyone with information can call 517-458-7104.

Link?

Lazy River Resort Campground


(http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o100/klaasen3/Sub9%20June%202010/LazyResort.jpg)

I'm not even sure what they are trying to say?  I'm sure John R. Skelton (the boys father) is the prime suspect.   John's name has been published so I don't know what this person at WS is referring to.  Makes zero sense to me.

Can't yah take me word for it?

JK :)
http://www.whitepages.com/search/Replay?lower=1&more_info=1&search_id=21291403010662581594&search_type=findperson

I think Muffy meant the link to Websleuths. 

I'm not sure what this means?  John's name has been published and I'm certain John is the prime suspect.

John R. Skelton

(http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o100/klaasen3/Sub9%20June%202010/JohnSkelton.jpg)

Tanya Skelton

(http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o100/klaasen3/Sub9%20June%202010/Bikermom.jpg)

http://www.toledoblade.com/article/20101129/NEWS16/11280359

Article published November 29, 2010
Search for missing Morenci brothers called off at Ohio campground


By JENNIFER FEEHAN
and TOM TROY
BLADE STAFF WRITERS

PIONEER, Ohio — A search at a 64-acre campground in Pioneer for three missing brothers from Morenci was called off Monday afternoon after crews hunted through the area for about 90 minutes.

The firefighters and police officers had been searching the Lazy River Resort campground off of U.S. 20. After disbanding, the crews were headed back to a community center in Pioneer.

"We don't feel there's anything of value here," Cpl. Jeff Patterson said of the campground search.

Doug Rowland, the campground owner, said he received a call Sunday night from authorities saying they had information that the brothers' father, John Skelton, 39, may have used his cell phone in the immediate area.

Mr. Rowland said there are no records showing the Skelton family ever camped in the location. The campground has been closed since Oct. 10 but it can still be accessed by the public.

About 100 people on Monday afternoon broke into groups to search the campground.

Earlier Monday morning, an announcement of a new search — with only safety personnel — was made to a packed room at the Morenci Bible Fellowship Church, where volunteers had gathered at 8 a.m. to start another day of searching.

Those volunteers were asked to stay in the building by safety personnel who said they may be needed later on Monday to search the area.

Also Monday, Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks said they do not believe there was a relationship between Mr. Skelton and Joann Taylor. She is the woman that Mr. Skelton said he gave his three sons to for delivery last week to their mother, Tanya Skelton.

Authorities also said they are looking for information from anyone who may have seen a Blue 2000 Dodge Caravan with a license plate of 9J0H93 in the Ohio areas of Holiday City, West Unity, and Kunkle from about 4 a.m. Friday through 7 a.m. Friday.

Community members held lighted candles and prayed silently during a vigil at a local church Sunday while authorities continued to seek public help in locating three boys missing since Friday.

More than 200 people filled Morenci United Methodist Church, where the Zuverses, the family of Tanya Skelton, the mother of Andrew, Alexander, and Tanner Skelton, regularly worship.

"It was good for everyone to come together and pray, pray for the best," said Carrie Joughin, a high school classmate of Ms. Skelton. She said grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins of the boys were in the church.

"I think people are trying to figure it out. I think there are a lot of gut instincts that don't look good," Ms. Joughin said.

During a news conference an hour before the vigil's 5:30 p.m. start, Chief Weeks said the public search for the missing boys would be suspended at nightfall and resume Monday morning.


"It would not be safe to have so many people out in the dark wooded areas," the chief said, urging those interested in volunteering today to contact the Morenci Fire Department.


Andrew, 9, Alexander, 7, and Tanner, 5, all students at Morenci Elementary School, were reported missing Friday by their mother, Tanya, one day after they were last seen in the back yard at the home of their father, John Skelton.


Mr. Skelton subsequently told police he handed his sons over to a woman named Joann Taylor on Friday morning and asked her to take the boys to their mother's house. Mr. Skelton then attempted to hang himself but was not successful.


The Skeltons are in the midst of divorce proceedings. Ms. Skelton had custody of their sons, but Mr. Skelton retained visiting rights and had them visit at the former family home on East Congress Street for Thanksgiving.

Chief Weeks said Mr. Skelton remains hospitalized in a "mental health facility" following his suicide attempt.


Asked whether Mr. Skelton has been assisting police, Andrew Arena, special agent in charge of the FBI's Detroit office, declined to talk about specifics.


"We're not narrowing in on any one person," Mr. Arena said.


"That's the biggest mistake we can make is put all our eggs in one basket and focus on one person and miss something going by us."


Because police have been unable to find Joann Taylor or even verify that she exists, law enforcement and civilian volunteers began searching in earnest for the children on Saturday, following the late Friday issuance of an Amber Alert.


Hundreds of volunteers along with firefighters from 12 area departments in Ohio and Michigan, Lenawee County Sheriff's deputies and mounted patrol officers, the Michigan State Police, and the FBI were out in full force again Sunday, combing wooded areas outside Morenci as well as Harrsion Lake State Park near Fayette, Ohio, and Lake Hudson State Park east of Hudson, Mich.


Chief Weeks stressed that investigators had no direct evidence or information that the children were in any of those locales.


"These searches are being conducted in places where the boys had frequented or areas that they may have been seen in [in] the past," the chief said.


Morenci firefighter Steve Meller, who was coordinating volunteers from the command center at the fire station, said well over 200 people showed up Sunday morning to help search. Many were sent out to do straight-line searches through wooded areas along Lime Creek Highway, where Mr. Skelton reportedly used to hunt, Mr. Meller said.


Searchers were told to stay within 10 feet of each other and move in the same direction. They were to look for anything that seemed suspicious but not to touch any objects they found.


Law enforcement officers were dispatched when possible clues were reported - ground that appeared to be freshly turned, a padlock lying along the roadside.


Christal Varga was among those who turned out early to search and she said she intended to spend the entire day looking for the Skelton boys, who go to school with her children. She was with two friends, also mothers of the boys' classmates.


"If it was our kids, we wouldn't want to be sitting at home," she said. "We'd want everybody in the whole town out here."


Barb Stover, a neighbor of Mr. Skelton, showed up at the fire station with her two children to help with the search.


"We're ready to do anything. Those boys meant a lot to us," she said, adding that she's hoping they're found alive.


Michael Osborne, superintendent of the Morenci Area Schools, said clergy members and social workers would be on hand today in the district's buildings to provide support for staff and students as needed.


A message recapping the Skelton boys' disappearance and outlining the district's response plan was e-mailed to district parents Sunday evening, Mr. Osborne said, and announcements are to be made in the schools Monday morning.


Chief Weeks said that because of the large number of city employees involved in the search and investigation, municipal offices would be closed today. Reopening will be evaluated daily, he said.


The FBI's Mr. Arena said investigators are keeping their focus intentionally wide. In addition to its child-abduction response team, the FBI has brought in behavioral science experts, he said, "to give us an overview of who would've done this, the mind set, that kind of thing, and any suspects we develop they're going to give us an assessment."


Mr. Arena encouraged anyone who knows anything or sees anything that could offer a clue to the children's whereabouts to call the hot line set up by Morenci police, 517-458-7104.


"We need calls. We need tips," Mr. Arena said. "Anything that's out there - no matter how incredible you may think it is - call."


Chief Weeks said investigators particularly need to know where the boys were from 2:30 p.m. Thursday to 1:30 p.m. Friday.


He said investigators remain unsure whether Mr. Skelton truly gave his sons to Joann Taylor.


"We continue to search to verify whether or not this woman exists," the chief said. "At this point no information has been collected to lead us to this person so, again, contact the hot line if you're familiar with who Joann Taylor is or any information regarding her, her husband, or their potential whereabouts."


Chief Weeks also said police have "examined a number of electronic devices," but wouldn't divulge whether they have specifically inspected Mr. Skelton's computer for e-mails between him and Joann Taylor.


Family spokesman and friend Kathye Herrera said Tanya Skelton was staying close to home in hopes of being there if and when the children come home.


"She's sad, probably number one, because she wants her babies," Ms. Herrera said. "She's scared and just praying they're OK and somebody's taking care of them, and she's exhausted. The stress has just done her in."


Ms. Herrera said Ms. Skelton had been wary about her estranged husband's intentions since he took the children to Florida, where his parents live, two months ago without telling her.


Ms. Skelton ws upset, Ms. Herrera said, but because they were still married at the time, it was legal for him to take them to Florida.


She filed for divorce afterward.


Ms. Herrera said Ms. Skelton did not think he would hurt the boys.


"I don't think that was ever an issue," she said.


"Maybe that he would take them to Florida again, but not physically harm them. The boys loved their Dad. They loved their Mom."


During the vigil, lay leader Bob Dister implored God for protection.


"Relieve the sufferings of the Skelton and the Zuvers families. Grant them peace of mind and a renewed faith in your protection and care. Protect us all from the violence of others and keep us safe from the weapons of hate," Mr. Dister said.


Members of the Zuvers family sat close together in the front row, their faces tearful, and accepted hugs and whispered encouragements from worshippers who also dabbed away tears as they filed by to take and light candles. Christmas music played faintly in the background while the congregation was invited to pray in silence.


Mr. Dister said afterward that Tanya Skelton was in the church, but no one from the family spoke. He said she has "held up pretty well, as well as could be expected when you don't know where your kids are at."


Earlier in the day across this rural community 40 miles west of Toledo, people hoped for the best but feared the worst.


Delite Gillen discussed the case with friends at the Morenci Dari-ette over lunch. She didn't know the boys, she said, but was concerned for their safety "because it's a small town and we're just caring about everyone. That's what a small town is."


After exiting the church participants in the prayer service said they wanted to help the family of the missing boys.


"Mainly it was to support the families, show them that we care as a community," said Sharon Bruce, 67, of Morenci. She said she is friends of Beverly and Donald Zuvers, Ms. Skelton's parents, and at one time she taught piano to Tanya.


"I think people are hoping for the best and preparing for the worst," Ms. Bruce said. "We're thinking this can't be happening in Morenci. That's what we're thinking."


Staff writer David Patch contributed to this report.

http://www.wtol.com/Global/story.asp?S=13580161

Search for 3 Morenci boys moves to Pioneer, OH
Posted: Nov 29, 2010 5:36 AM PST Updated: Nov 29, 2010 9:29 AM PST


MORENCI, MI (WTOL) - Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks asked for the public's help to locate the Skelton family minivan in the search for three missing boys. He also said the search effort is moving to Pioneer, OH.

Andrew, 9, Alexander, 7, and Tanner Skelton, 5, were last seen Friday afternoon in their father's yard. Father John Skelton told police he turned the boys over to a woman from Jackson, MI that he met online named Joann Taylor. Weeks says they have determined no relationship exists between Skelton and any woman by that name in Jackson.

Chief Weeks described a 2000 silver/blue Dodge Caravan that may have been in the Ohio cities of Kunkel, Unity, West Unity or Holiday City late Thursday or early Friday. The Michigan license plate is 9JOH93. Anyone who may have seen that van in those areas and in the specified time frame is asked to call Morenci Police at (517) 458-7104.

The window of time they are specifically asking for is anyone who may have seen the van at 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 25 to  to 1:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 26. Even more specifically, they are looking for anyone who may have seen the van between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m. Friday in those cities.

Additionally, Weeks says the search is being moved to Pioneer, OH. He has not given details regarding why they're focusing on that area. Only that they've been talking to multiple sources including the boys' father.

Volunteers who showed up at the Morenci Fire Department to participate in the search was asked to stand down Monday morning. They are being asked to participate in the volunteer effort in Pioneer. Details will be posted shortly.

Thanks to all for the updates and insights.

I was hoping for more from the press conference.

Janet

http://www.toledoonthemove.com/news/story.aspx?id=547299

Police: Father of missing boys lied about woman
by Amulya Raghuveer
Posted: 7 mins ago

MORENCI, MICH. --

Authorities searching for three brothers, missing Friday when their father tried to commit suicide, say they believe the father was lying about who had his sons.

Crews have shifted their search for the three boys to areas around Pioneer in Williams County, Ohio. The three boys were last seen on Thanksgiving Day in the backyard of their Morenci, Michigan home before their father tried to kill himself.

An Amber Alert was issued Friday for Tanner Skelton, 5; Alexander Skelton, 7; and Andrew Skelton, 9.  They were reported missing that day by their mother, Tanya Skelton.

John Skelton, 39, of Morenci, told investigators that he didn't want the boys in his house when he committed suicide, so he asked a woman named Joann Taylor to take them to their mother, who is separated from Skelton.  Authorities now say they have ruled out any reported relationship between a Joann Taylor and Skelton.

Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks told reporters on Monday that the are no longer considering Skelton's reported relationship with the alleged woman to be true.  When asked if Skelton was lying about the relationship, Weeks repsonded, "Correct."

Weeks said authorities remain hopeful that the boys are still alive.  The focus of their search has now shifted to areas of Williams County, just south of the Ohio-Michigan border in Ohio.  A command center has been set up in Pioneer, with a search extending to Holiday City and Kunkle.

A fixed wing aircraft has been brought in to help with the search.

Authorities are also asking the public if they saw a blue 2000 Dodge Caravan with Michigan plates "9JO H93" anywhere near the Ohio-Michigan border or Ohio Turnpike late Thursday or Friday.  Investigators have reason to believe the boys were inside the vehicle at some point after their disappearance, and that the minivan had been on the Ohio Turnpike at the time in question.

Weeks says Skelton is being treated at a hospital in Ohio for "mental health issues" after trying to hang to hang himself Friday. He suffered a minor fracture in his ankle during his attempted suicide, according to Weeks. When asked if Skelton was a suspect in his sons' disappearance, Weeks said: "We haven't ruled anything out yet." Investigators continue to have conversations with Skelton regarding his sons.

If you have any information you are asked to call the Morenci Police Department at 517-458-7104.

BLOCKED WEBSITE

AMBER ALERT in effect for Missing Three Skelton Boys in Michigan: 9 Year Old Andrew, 7 Year Old Alexander & 5 Year Old Tanner

Posted November 29, 2010 by Scared Monkeys

http://scaredmonkeys.com/2010/11/29/amber-alert-in-effect-for-missing-three-skelton-boys-in-michigan-9-year-old-andrew-7-year-old-alexander-5-year-old-tanner/

 ::MonkeyNoNo::

I am relieved they are looking in another place.  I just remember so vividly when we were searching for Sarah Foxwell last Christmas and the call came to stop searching.  It was the most horrid feeling in my gut . . .

Prior to adopting a son and a daughter ... friends of our daughter and SIL ... willingly complied to qualifying requirements which ranged from a certain square footage within their home right up to a criminal background check.

Why was this woman allowed unsupervised contact with children?

These precious little boys never stood a chance.

Janet

 ::MonkeyTears::

   

BLOCKED WEBSITE

BLOCKED WEBSITE
 ::MonkeyNoNo::

Fire Chief Scott Damon of Cambridge Township, Mich., told a group of firefighters preparing to search that Morenci father "may have just dumped them on the road."   ::MonkeyShocked::  I'm not sure how to take this, whether he left them on the road deceased someone by now would have come across the children, and if he dumped them on the road alive, I would think that someone would have found them. Unless they may have walked into woods and got lost  ::MonkeyNoNo::

Gracious Klaas, I wish my heart was telling me what the grandmother so wants to believe.

This is raw madness!!
:2brickwall:

http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(v1fux355e1nhhb454jj2yj45))/mileg.aspx?page=GetObject&objectname=mcl-750-520e

MI criminal code describing 750.520 E.

Thank you Tolerance.

Janet

http://www.foxtoledo.com/dpp/news/local/pioneer-ohio-new-search-area-for-missing-boys
New search area for missing boys
(Map & Photos at above link)
Updated: Monday, 29 Nov 2010, 2:44 PM EST
Published : Monday, 29 Nov 2010, 12:09 PM EST
MORENCI, Mich. (WUPW) - The search for three missing Morenci, Michigan boys has shifted to Ohio.

Monday morning, more than 300 volunteers have converged on the Lazy River Campground, just west of Pioneer, Ohio to look for Tanner Skelton, 5, Alexander Skelton, 7, and Andrew Skelton, 9, who were reported missing over the Thanksgiving holiday.

Volunteer fire fighters, hunters and farmers are among those searching the new area.

The minivan in which the boys were last seen, a 2000 blue Dodge Caravan, with Michigan license plate number: 9JQ H93, may have been in the Pioneer, Unity, West Unity, Holiday City, Ohio areas between 2:30p.m. Thursday and 1:30p.m. Friday.

Anyone who may have seen the vehicle and/or the boys is asked to call the Morenci Police hotline: 517-458-7104.

In a new development on the case, Larry Weeks, Morenci Police Chief, stated during a news conference Monday morning, the relationship between John Skelton and Joanne Taylor, the woman that he allegedly turned the boys over to last week, does not exist.

The boys were reported missing Friday and were last seen on Thanksgiving afternoon. When questioned, their father John Skelton, originally told police he had turned the boys over to Joanne Taylor to return them to their mother as he didn't want them with him when he attempted to commit suicide.

Weeks says the information Skelton gave police regarding the woman may have been made up.

According to police, Skelton is being treated for a psychological condition at unnamed hospital after trying to hang himself.

Morenci Police remain the lead investigative authority in this case, but is being assisted by the Michigan State Police, the FBI, and other authorities.

http://www.wtol.com/global/story.asp?s=13581834

Mom of missing MI boys is on sex-offender list
Updated: Nov 29, 2010 1:11 PM EST
 

MORENCI, Mich. (AP) — State records show the mother of three missing boys is on Michigan's sex-offender registry for a misdemeanor committed in 1998.

Tanya Skelton's offense was fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct. There are no other details on the website.

A message seeking additional information was left Monday with the Lenawee County prosecutor. Family spokeswoman Kathye Herrera says it's not relevant to the status of the missing kids.

Authorities are searching for Tanner, Alexander and Andrew Skelton, brothers who were last seen Thursday. The 44-year-old Tanya Skelton reported them missing Friday in Morenci on the Michigan-Ohio border.

Their father, John Skelton, told police that he gave the boys to a friend to take to his estranged wife. Police don't believe him.

http://www.wtol.com/global/story.asp?s=13580161

Video at site
Missing MI boys' dad lied about woman; search shifts to OH town
Posted: Nov 29, 2010 8:36 AM EST
Updated: Nov 29, 2010 3:37 PM EST
Video Gallery <1|2>
 
(WTOL/AP) - The Morenci Police Chief says he believes the father of three missing boys lied about a relationship with a woman he claims to have entrusted with their care.

Police doubt 39-year-old John Skelton's story about handing his children over to a woman named Joann Taylor before attempting suicide. Five-year-old Tanner, 7-year-old Alexander and 9-year-old Andrew were last seen Thursday and are believed to be in danger.

The police chief also says the search for the boys is moving to Pioneer, OH and that anyone who saw the family's minivan last week should call police.

Morenci Police Chief Larry Week described a 2000 silver/blue Dodge Caravan that may have been in the Ohio cities of Kunkel, West Unity or Holiday City late Thursday or early Friday. The Michigan license plate is 9JQH93.

Anyone who may have seen the van from 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 25 to 1:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 26 is asked to call Morenci Police at 517-458-7104. Specifically, they are looking for anyone who may have seen the van between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m. Friday in those cities -- or along the Michigan-Ohio border.

The FBI says there's evidence the vehicle was seen during that time on the Ohio Turnpike.

Additionally, Weeks says the search for the boys has shifted from Morenci to Pioneer, OH.

Volunteers who showed up at the Morenci Fire Department to participate in the search was asked to stand down Monday morning. They are being asked to participate in the volunteer effort in Pioneer.

If you have information that could help police, call 517-458-7104.

What has the weather been like since the boys have been missing. I wonder if they were dressed for the cold or if he took them out of bed in their pajamas. This is so heart breaking. ::MonkeyNoNo::

That is what I was wondering, if he let the boys off on a road and they wandered into the woods, not only would they get lost, but the cold weather, no food.

It has been in the 20's and 30's at night after the sun sets....I have frost on my car every morning.  I certainly dont think i could stand to be out all night around here even if I did have on winter clothing. 

I was doing some digging on the father today and found out he is a client of mine  ::MonkeyShocked:: 

I value my job so cant say all that I found out but I do know that one of the towns they were concentrating on today is also the place of his employment.

So this info gives me hope....maybe he did drop them off at a place that maybe the kids are familiar with.  If he ever took them to his job the oldest may recongize the area or something.

But again, you would think someone would have spotted them by now. 

Thank-you, I was pretty sure it was like that and there is no way those three little boys could survive that weather.  ::MonkeyNoNo::

::MonkeyEek:: Wow I'll bet that took your breath away for awhile. That is what I'm thinking someone would have spotted them by now.

Here is a pic to of the house...I'm pretty sure it says One Twelve at the top so that address woudl be correct.

(http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=TO&Date=20101128&Category=NEWS16&ArtNo=112809996&Ref=PH&Item=8&Title=1&Maxw=800&Maxh=800&Q=95)

Link to pic above (my screen was having a major spasm on that last post -- I could barely see what I was typing!)

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=TO&Date=20101128&Category=NEWS16&ArtNo=112809996&Ref=PH&Params=Itemnr=8

Thanks Leroy - yes the caption under the photo of the house reads......

Police tape lines the exterior of the home of John Skelton at 112 East Congress in Morenci, Mich. Andrew, Alexander, and Tanner Lucas Skelton were reportedly last seen Friday in their father’s backyard.

Thanks Klaas - I was all frazzled with my screen and didn't even catch that.

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/story?section=news/local&id=7815138 (http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/story?section=news/local&id=7815138)


In 1999, she was convicted of fourth degree criminal sexual conduct for having sex with a 14-year-old boy. The teen would do handyman work on rental properties Tanya and her ex-husband owned.

Shortly after the allegations surfaced, Tanya's husband filed for divorce. He was granted custody of the couple's two daughters.

Well this answers some of the questions about her.


 

Thanks Lenie - I was looking for this as I knew I read something about her conviction but couldnt remember where.

Thanks Lenie

Parents of three missing Morenci boys in custody fight
Monday, November 29, 2010

We are learning more about the Skelton family.

The mother of the three boys recently filed for divorce from John Skelton and was fighting for permanent custody.

John Skelton said the mother of the children was an unfit parent. He cited the fact Tanya Skelton is a registered sex offender and is repeatedly in violation of sex offender laws as reasons why she shouldn't have custody of the three boys.

On September 13 of this year, Tanya Skelton filed for divorce, according to court documents.


Related Content
Story: "Still hopeful" in search for Morenci boys
That same day the father of Andrew, Alexander and Tanner took the children out of school. It's alleged he took the children to stay with an acquaintance in Jacksonville, Florida.
Tanya Skelton stated because the boys' father is a long-haul truck driver and is on the road for weeks at a time, she should be granted sole custody.

But on September 27, John Skelton filed for custody. citing the fact Tanya Skelton is a registered sex offender.

In 1999, she was convicted of fourth degree criminal sexual conduct for having sex with a 14-year-old boy. The teen would do handyman work on rental properties Tanya and her ex-husband owned.

Shortly after the allegations surfaced, Tanya's husband filed for divorce. He was granted custody of the couple's two daughters.

John Skelton has also been married before. He has one daughter from that marriage. In January of this year, he was sentenced to 30 days in jail for failure to pay child support.

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/story?section=news/local&id=7815138

John Skelton has also been married before. He has one daughter from that marriage. In January of this year, he was sentenced to 30 days in jail for failure to pay child support.   ::MonkeyNoNo::   Reason for why he may have done something to the boys, child support?

I can almost promise that was his reason for going for full custody. 

BBM
He married an RO and fathered 3 children with her but now says that makes her an unfit mother. Both these people creep me out. ::MonkeyNoNo::

I have to agree - I wonder if he knew at the time that she was a RSO? I would not have thought of running the WOMAN was was engaged to through the registry (although since I am a woman perhaps I would not have that problem?)  I know that I run all our male applicants through but I guess I need to run the female ones through too. Women SO are rather rare though - partially because of a double standard I think.

This is so sad

(http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o100/klaasen3/Sub9%20June%202010/SkeltonKids.jpg)

http://www.wtol.com/global/story.asp?s=13584449

Father of missing MI boys had lost job, custody
Updated: Nov 29, 2010 7:40 PM EST
Video Gallery
 
Crews in MI and OH search for missing boys Monday
5:59 

   
Associated Press
MORENCI, Mich. (AP) — The father of three missing Michigan boys was out of work, his marriage had fallen apart and he'd lost custody of his children in the months before he told police that he gave the boys to an acquaintance and tried to kill himself.

Police said Monday that they don't believe John Skelton's claim that he handed his children over to a woman he met online and had crews searching areas in Michigan and along an Ohio highway where the FBI said Skelton's blue minivan had been seen Thursday or Friday. Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks said police spent several days searching extensively in records and by other means for the woman and couldn't find any evidence she existed.

Skelton's sons — Tanner, 5, Alexander, 7, and Andrew, 9 — were last seen Thursday in the backyard of their father's southern Michigan home, and authorities said they believe they are in danger. Weeks did not name Skelton as a suspect in the boys' disappearance, but he said investigators haven't ruled him out. Skelton, 39, has been in an Ohio hospital since Friday, receiving treatment for "mental health issues" after telling police he tried to hang himself, Weeks said.

The boys were reported missing Friday by their mother, Tanya Skelton, who was awarded custody after filing for divorce on Sept. 13. They had been with their father as part of court-ordered visitation.

The Skeltons married in 2002. It was the second marriage for both.

Jennifer O'Brien, who said she was John Skelton's cousin and had introduced the couple, told the Detroit Free Press that John Skelton had been secluding himself for years and Tanya Skelton had wanted to separate. O'Brien did not return a message left Monday by The Associated Press.

The day Tanya Skelton filed for divorce her husband picked up their two oldest sons from school and texted her from Ohio that he was taking them to Florida, according to her motion for custody. Tanya Skelton called Weeks, who contacted John Skelton and convinced him to return the boys. But later that day, John Skelton picked them up at home and drove to Florida with them, the motion said.

John Skelton later returned the boys and had been seeing them "with no issues," said Kathye Herrera, who identified herself as a spokeswoman for Tanya Skelton.

But court records show the custody fight continued to be nasty. John Skelton filed a motion for custody on Sept. 27, saying his wife was a registered sex offender.

Tanya Skelton, 44, pleaded guilty to fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct in 1998, according to court records. Her misdemeanor plea was part of a plea bargain after she was accused of having sex with a 14-year-old boy who had worked for her and her former husband at rental properties in Morenci. Her divorce attorney, David McFarland, declined to comment.

Herrera said early Monday that Tanya Skelton's conviction was not relevant to the children's disappearance. She did not return a call later Monday after the AP obtained records detailing the complaint.

Lenawee County Circuit Judge Margaret Noe told the AP that Tanya Skelton received exclusive custody after John Skelton returned from Florida with the boys, but the couple subsequently negotiated an agreement that allowed visitation.

"The agreement was without my intervention," Noe said. "It is not unusual for judges to encourage parents to engage in agreements between themselves relative to visitation because they best know the circumstances."

She said the brothers' disappearance was "sad and unfortunate" and declined further comment.

Tanya Skelton's original divorce motion asked for custody because John Skelton was a long-haul truck driver gone for long periods of time, but Herrera said John Skelton hadn't worked in a while. Tanya Skelton, who described herself in court documents as an at-home mother, attends a local college or community college, Herrera said.

The couple had filed for bankruptcy in 2003, and the case was cleared later that year. Tanya Skelton asked for alimony and child support when she filed for divorce in September.

Authorities and volunteers searched Monday afternoon along busy U.S. 20 in northern Ohio highway for evidence of the boys. Cambridge Township fire chief Scott Damon said he had a crew searching east of Pioneer, Ohio, about 12 miles from the boys' home in Morenci.

"It's pretty flat land. We're just walking along," Damon said. "We're looking for any type of evidence. My group has not found anything."

About 50 people spent nearly three hours searching the Lazy River Resort Campground in Pioneer. The owner, Doug Rowland, said he was told cell towers in the area carried calls from John Skelton's phone last week. The campground is closed, but some trailers are parked there for the winter.

"They looked in every nook and cranny," Rowland said. "They peered in windows of campers and checked doors to see if they were locked. I just feel bad. I wish they would find something so the mother could get some resolution. The search turned up empty."

___

Associated Press writer Ed White in Detroit contributed to this report.

BLOCKED WEBSITE

They need to look in DUMPSTERS

I get the sinking feeling that this man's "suicide attempt" was premeditated so that if he got caught killing his children he could claim some sort of diminished capacity (in his mind).  This could be a classic case of thinking the children are better off dead than be left with the other parent of a custody dispute.   I havent commented on this case until now, largely because I get the sense the outcome will be the worst feared...I pray Im wrong.

Since they are currently searching in Pioneer Ohio, I google mapped it and came upon this cemetery.  Notice the lake. 

Floral Grove Cemetery - Pioneer, OH

(http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o100/klaasen3/Sub9%20June%202010/PioneerCemetary.jpg)

My thoughts, unfortunately, align with your thoughts. From the forgiveness Facebook message to seemingly the non-existent Joann Taylor to a failed "suicide attempt"...I, too, pray I'm wrong.

If John Skelton truly wanted to commit suicide, why would he have a random woman pick up his children? How would he describe his need? What normal human being would agree to pick up someone's children so a friend could commit suicide? If truths weren't offered, what could possibly be Skelton's rationale? And...why wouldn't he simply drop the children off at their mother's house? There is no need to involve some random stranger when a simplistic solution exists.

Skelton sought forgiveness from God and his wife prior to the boys' disappearance. For what?!

A failed suicide is extremely suspicious. I imagine Skelton's background coupled with basic internet access could yield a flawless outcome. If he didn't succeed at first, why didn't he try again?

I truly hope these boys are located.

If you are so led:

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=AATS

Thank you sister

because of the holiday, today 11/29/10 would be the, dumps to the landfills,or recycling centers for 11/25-26/10
i think
landfills map
http://tinyurl.com/28ylofc

wonder if they have checked johns phones and puter

(http://i380.photobucket.com/albums/oo242/Brandi-Monkey/WEATHER/furby-halo2-1.gif)

I so agree. If these boys were with family members they would have notified LE by now. And the suicide attempt will help with his defense. I wish he would just man up and tell LE what he has done.

They said they were checking areas where he hunted. If he wanted to commit suicide and there are guns available why try hanging and when that was a failure why not a gun instead of having a friend drive you to the hospital.

"Still hopeful" in search for Morenci boys
Monday, November 29, 2010

MORENCI, MI (WTVG) -- Larry Weeks, Morenci police chief, says that they are now searching for tips regarding sightings of a 2000 blue Dodge Caravan that was missing from the boys' home sometime during 2:30 p.m. Thursday to 1:30 p.m. Friday. They have the van in their possession, but are SEEKING HELP from anyone who may have seen the vehicle in WILLIAMS COUNTY, specifically West Unity, Kunkle, Pioneer or Holiday City Ohio. Authorities are following all leads.

The search has expanded from Morenci to Pioneer, Ohio Monday after investigators received tips.

In Morenci, the police chief wants everyone to meet at the fire hall at 8:00 Tuesday morning. Much like Monday, the search will go from there. Morenci fire chief Chad Schisler says, "I'm not sure what tomorrow will bring, so yeah, we'll take all the help we can get."

Monday morning, volunteers in Morenci packed the fire house; so many, in fact, firefighters moved the meeting to the church hall across the street. The objective was to fan out and find the three missing Skelton boys. "This community has drawn together. We want to find these boys safe and bring 'em back home to their mom," says volunteer Jeff Glore.
Tanner, Alex, and Andrew were last seen on Thanksgiving wearing pajamas. Their father, John Skelton, told police they were gone and that he had attempted suicide. He is now in a mental health facility. His sons' pictures are on flyers posted across this small town. And it is all anyone is talking about.

Pearl Phelps owns Pearl's Pizza Palace. In the entrance there are flyers for the missing Skelton boys, a fund-raiser for Collin Fletcher, who died in a hunting accident, and a reward to find whoever murdered 5-year-old Nevaeh Buchannan. Phelps says, "I don't think there could be enough of those posters hung up."


Related Content
Story: Parents of three missing Morenci boys in custody fight

Video:

Story: Search resumes for 3 young Michigan brothers
By nightfall, the police chief suspended the search until sunrise Tuesday morning. He said it was too dangerous to comb the countryside in the dark. But in the parking lot of nearby Morenci Elementary, one group decided the dark was a perfect place to light three sky lanterns and let them go.
Brad Osborn says, "It was a tribute for the boys to get home safe. I'd let three off last night. I got to let three off tonight." It was a way to send silent messages into the night - prayers - that the Skelton boys will find a safe return home.

Monday, investigators expanded their search for the Skelton boys to Ohio to the village of Pioneer in Williams County.

Investigators ended the search in Pioneer around 6:00 Monday night because of the darkness. They'll resume search and rescue operations at 8:00 a.m. Tuesday morning.

Inside the Pioneer Pizza Barn, the owner passed out flyers for the missing Skelton boys. Robert Martin, says, "Really feel bad, that's a rough situation. I've got grandchildren of my own; eight of them. Really touches your heart."

The restaurant is across the street from the Pioneer Community Center, which serves as the staging area for all of the volunteers, firefighters, and police officers who are searching the area.

Angela Gautsche says, "We did see some rescue workers on 127 when we were coming home today. Our prayers are with the family."

Monday afternoon, investigators searched the Lazy River Resort campground just outside of Pioneer and the entire surrounding area. It appears police officers retrieved the father's cell phone records and it took them here. However, no sign of Tanner, Andrew and Alexander Skelton.

The people in Pioneer are shocked that the search for the three missing Morenci boys has extended to their village. But they say they are eager to help in any way they can. Robert Martin says, "It really surprised us. I'll tell you that. Caught us off guard."

The workers at the Pioneer Pizza Barn are busy feeding the volunteers and emergency workers. Martin says, "We're a close knit community. Anything like this, everybody pitches in. That's what we should do."

The customers are praying for the best. "We just visited our grandchildren tonight. To think that some grandmother may not see those boys again, we're surely praying that someone will find them," says Angela Gautsche.

Anyone with information can call 517-458-7104.

(Copyright ©2010 WTVG-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.)

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/story?section=news/local&id=7814475

I was happy to see that the Pizza Place also has a flyer for Nevaeh   ::MonkeyAngel:: 

I couldn't clean up he article or highlight anymore because for some reason my screen keeps jumping when I go to post.  I know other have had this problem and I cant remember how to fix it...anyone??

Probably not a hammer,eh?     i am a huge help...NOT! Off to work, bbl    ::MonkeyTongue::

I always think of chunking mine out the window . . . but that wouldn't help either.
 :smt111
Gosh Leroy, are your thoughts positive about the whereabouts of these boys?

Both are an option   ::MonkeyDevil:: 

I am trying to stay positive but the reality is that unless these boys have shelter, I do not think they would have survived this long out in the elements   ::MonkeyNoNo:: 

sorry to be o/t , but go under Tools and check compatability.

I thought of these boys all night long.
At those ages my 3 little boys had matching PJs. 
Please, Lord, hold them closely.
Tol

Anyone who thinks that maybe he shipped the boys back to his mother's house in Florida, or maybe one of the relatives drove to Michigan and picked them up?

I can imagine this guy was overwhelmed at the idea of paying child support for three kids, and alimony (maybe) to the mother.

Not that it excuses any harm he caused the children, but it would point to him as the prime suspect in the case.

Agreed, that if he had no reservations about she being a sex offender and birthing, and rearing his children for so many years, why now claim that against her in the divorce?

Unless he didn't know and found out recently.

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/11/30/earlyshow/living/parenting/main7102545.shtml
NEW YORK, Nov. 30, 2010
Police: Father Lying About Missing Boys
Search Continues in Mich. for John Skelton's 3 Missing Brothers; Police Say Woman Father Indicated Had His Kids Doesn't Exist
(CBS)  A frantic search for three missing Michigan brothers continues. The boys disappeared Friday -- the same day their father tried to kill himself.

Profiler: Dad's Story of Missing Kids "Bogus"   http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/11/29/earlyshow/main7099072.shtml
Search to Resume for 3 Young Mich. Brothers
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/11/29/ap/national/main7098431.shtml

After 39-year-old John Skelton tried to hang himself, he told police he gave his three sons -- Andrew, Alexander, and Tanner -- to a woman with whom he had an online relationship.

Now, police are saying that this woman never existed, and the whereabouts of the boys remains a mystery.

CBS News National Correspondent Jeff Glor reported on day three of the desperate search, hundreds of volunteers joined police, firefighters, and the FBI to search for the missing brothers as their father's story fell apart.

Skelton's sons were last seen on Thanksgiving during a court-ordered visitation with their father. He claimed he turned his children over to a woman named Joann Taylor because he didn't want them around when he committed suicide. Now, police are saying Skelton's story is a lie,that he made Taylor up out of thin air.

Morenci, Mich., Police Chief Larry Weeks said, "What I'm saying is a reported relationship between Mr. Skelton and Joann Taylor does not exist."

Search parties are concentrating their efforts in an area along the Ohio turnpike, an area where Skelton's minivan was spotted around the time the boys disappeared. One search leader was overheard telling searchers Skelton "may have just dumped them on the road," Glor reported.

Weeks said, "Since we can last pinpoint the boys in the backyard on Thursday afternoon and we know that the vehicle wasn't at the home at a period of time there, you certainly want any leads that we could gather for that period of time on where that vehicle is at."

Police have searched Skelton's home and vehicle, and though he remains a suspect, no arrests have been made. Skelton, currently under observation at a local hospital, has yet to explain what actually happened to his three young sons.
Wendy Murphy, a former prosecutor, told CBS News, "We don't know why he lied, but we're certain that he lied, and when a father is not telling the truth to the cops about the disappearance of all of his children, that's a good reason to be suspicious."

This is not the first time Skelton has taken his children without permission, Glor reported. Skelton took his children to Florida in September on the same day his wife filed for divorce. Glor said Skelton kept his children there until a judge ordered him back to Michigan.

Ernie Allen, president and chief executive officer for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, said on "The Early Show" Tuesday his team has been helping in the search for the boys.

He said, "We have a program called Team Adam that uses retired law enforcement experts to advise and assist on the scene. We've been helping with grid searches of rural areas, looking for clues, looking for indications that the children have been there. We're circulating their photographs, widely to try to generate those key leads and information. We need to do more to bring these three little boys home."

"Early Show" co-anchor Maggie Rodriguez said, "You know better than anyone that the more time that passes, the less likely it is that these boys will turn up alive. In these cases time really is the enemy, isn't it?"

Allen responded, "It really is, Maggie. We know that in 90 percent of these cases the children are recovered, the cases are resolved within the first 24 hours. And we know that when children are abducted by strangers, and murdered, that in three-fourths of the cases the children are dead within the first three hours. So law enforcement has moved quickly. There's been enormous attention to it. We remain hopeful, but the passage of time is not encouraging."

Allen explained in cases when a parent abducts a child, the motive for taking them is anger or revenge directed at the other spouse.

He said, "What is perhaps most encouraging in this case is we also know that it is very rare for an abducting parent to do physical harm to the children. This is usually directed more at the other spouse. So it's not unprecedented, but there certainly is hope that these three little boys are still alive and still out there somewhere."

Rodriguez said, "But in this case, do you fear that it is different because the father is not physically with the children, and we know that he made up a story about what happened to them?"
He replied, "Absolutely. I mean, this is a really troubling scenario. We're very concerned for the safety of these children. Our hope is that somebody knows, and that somebody will come forward and provide information. It's really important that people respond now and not feel intimidated because they know someone or have a relationship. Somebody knows where these children are."

Allen said he thinks the boys will be recovered.

"I think we've put such emphasis on the importance of time and rapid response that, to lots of people, that means that if you don't recover them in 24 hours or 48 hours there is no hope," he said.

Allen continued, "There are lots of examples of children being found and coming home after long periods of time. Most recently Jaycee Dugard after 18 years. So there is hope that we can find them. Law enforcement, state, federal, local law enforcement in two states, Ohio and Michigan, are working aggressively. There are volunteers helping. We think there is still hope that these children can be found and can be returned to their mom."

http://www.wtol.com/Global/story.asp?S=13586281

Search resumes Tuesday morning for missing brothers
Posted: Nov 30, 2010 4:22 AM PST Updated: Nov 30, 2010 5:07 AM PST

MORENCI, MI (WTOL) - The search for three Michigan brothers resumes at 8 a.m. Tuesday.

Volunteers are meeting again at the Morenci Fire Station. They say the short amount of daylight this time of year is hindering the effort somewhat.

The search expanded Monday to include areas in and around Pioneer, OH based on tips to police. Those helping with the search say as many as 300 volunteers were out Monday.

Police continue to ask for anyone to call who may have seen the minivan in which they boys could have been traveling.

Here is information about the van:

Morenci Police Chief Larry Week described a 2000 silver/blue Dodge Caravan that may have been in the Ohio cities of Kunkel, West Unity or Holiday City late Thursday or early Friday. The Michigan license plate is 9JQH93.

Anyone who may have seen the van from 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 25 to 1:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 26 is asked to call Morenci Police at 517-458-7104. Specifically, they are looking for anyone who may have seen the van between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m. Friday in those cities -- or along the Michigan-Ohio border.

Video regarding the search yesterday:


http://www.foxtoledo.com/dpp/news/local/pioneer-ohio-new-search-area-for-missing-boys

Yep...sadly I agree. ::MonkeyNoNo::

Yup, and the SOB is in custody but at a psy hospital getting evaluated as we speak

Foxnews cable just announced that is a news conference pending shortly - didnt give a time   Mark Furham was on discussing the case.

Press Conference now:

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/livenow?id=7123045


I missed the beginning and they are talking bodies - they have not located the bodies yet.  So sad.

did anyone hear the question that the Police Chief seemed upset by and then said he can't even express an answer 'to that question'?

::MonkeyNoNo::

I missed it.   ::MonkeyNoNo::

I didn't hear any either. Wonder if the father confessed, and that is why the police are saying bodies? Maybe he told them where they were also?

Me too, Foxnews was late in getting it live & just gave a report after... they dont expect to find these precious baby boys alive after conducting interviews including the fathe

Hopefully the press conference will be online and in print soon.  Sounded to me like the dad has admitted to killing the boys but hasn't said where he put their bodies.  I'll keep checking.

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/story?section=news/local&id=7816487

Morenci police chief: no "positive outcome"
Tuesday, November 30, 2010


MORENCI, MI (WTVG) -- Morenci, Michigan, police chief Larry Weeks spoke to a crowd of reporters this morning with an update on the case of three missing boys.

He began the news conference with the statement that information has developed that leads them to "not anticipate a positive outcome" in the case.

Police are still seeking tips on sightings of the boys' father, John Skelton, and the family's blue Dodge Caravan on Friday, Nov. 26.

Weeks also said the father has been forthcoming with information although the "credibility we cannot verify." When a reporter asked about the mother's reaction, Weeks said, "Imagine your worst nightmare come true."

Anyone with information is encouraged to call 517-458-7104. Unless there is breaking news, another press conference will be held Weds., Dec. 1 at 11 a.m.

Thanks Cappy,so sad.   ::MonkeyNoNo::

Maybe so.
I can't even wrap my head around this...

No, me either  ::MonkeyNoNo::

http://www.foxtoledo.com/dpp/news/local/morenci-mich-imagine-your-worst-nightmare

'Imagine your worst nightmare'
Chief Weeks does not anticipate a positive outcome

Updated: Tuesday, 30 Nov 2010, 11:25 AM EST
Published : Tuesday, 30 Nov 2010, 11:20 AM EST

MORENCI, Michigan - New developments in the search for the missing Morenci, Michigan brothers.

Larry Weeks, Morenci Police Chief, choked back tears as he explained to a gathering of media Tuesday morning, that he 'doesn't anticipate a positive outcome' when it comes to finding Alexander, Andrew and Tanner Skelton, last seen Friday afternoon.

Weeks says law enforcement organizations continue to work off evidence and information coming into them, including information provided by the boys' father, John Skelton. He remains in a local hospital under psychiatric care.

What specific information and evidence Weeks based his belief on is not being made public.

Weeks was asked if he knows the whereabouts of the boys, he responded that John Skelton has been 'forthcoming with information, but the credibility of that information is suspect and can't be verified.'

When asked of boys' mother's reaction about the possibility of them not being found alive, Weeks told reporters Tanya Skelton's reaction was 'imagine your worst nightmare come true.' He wouldn't comment any further.

The public is still being asked to call with information if they have seen the Skelton's family van, a blue 2000 Dodge Caravan. The vehicle is in possession of the Morenci Police Department, but may have been in the Williams and Fulton County Ohio areas Thursday or Friday.

Weeks also thanked Ohio law enforcement for their input and cooperation into the searches in Ohio Monday.

A number of areas is set to be searched Tuesday, but the chief would not elaborate.

5-year-old Tanner Skelton, 7-year-old Alexander Skelton, and 9-year-old Andrew Skelton have been missing since Thanksgiving evening.

Investigators are still hoping for tips to be called in to a hot line set up by Morenci police, 517-458-7104.

Dear universe,
If there is a child ~ any child ~ who needs safety please send him/her/them to me.
I will love them and I will find a way to care for them.
I promise.
Tolerance

I know this was discussed yesterday about the mom. I know the mom is a SO, but at the same time nobody should have that happen to their children. Just because I am disgusted by what mom did, I still feel sorry for this outcome, the children and the rest of the family didn't deserve this.

There has never been a suggestion that mom was not a good mom that loved her boys. Even the POS didn't claim anything ever happened to those boys. My prayers are with her.

I agree, I never read anything that she wasn't. My prayers are with her and the rest of the family  ::MonkeyAngel::

BLOCKED WEBSITE

http://www.wnem.com/news/25959483/detail.html

JUST IN: Police Don't See Positive End In Search
Morenci Police Continue To Search For Boys

POSTED: 11:26 am EST November 30, 2010
UPDATED: 12:01 pm EST November 30, 2010

MORENCI, Mich. -- A police chief says authorities "do not anticipate a positive outcome" in the search for three Michigan brothers who have been missing since their father's attempted suicide.

Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks told reporters Tuesday that searchers are continuing to look for 9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner Skelton. The boys last were seen on Thanksgiving in their father's backyard.

Weeks says the assessment is based on information including statements from 39-year-old John Skelton. He says no decision has been made about whether to bring charges in the disappearance.

Police say John Skelton attempted suicide on Friday and is being treated at a hospital. He has not been ruled out as a suspect.

Morenci is about 75 miles southwest of Detroit.

Here is the raw press conference from earlier:

http://www.clickondetroit.com/video/25959486/index.html

Thank-you

Please light a candle for Andrew, Alexander and Tanner  ::MonkeyAngel::

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=AATS

Thank you Klaas.

Thank you, Klaas.................for everything.

I appreciated being able to hear the questions on this video.

Thanks Klaas.

It appears that John Skelton has revealed that Andrew, Alexander and Tanner are deceased.  I wish tatics could be used that would force this father to reveal where his sons remains can be located.

It appears that suspects are afforded more rights than the victims in the legal systems of the free world.

It has been strongly suspected from the getgo that this man was behind the disappearance of these precious little boys yet ... he had a legal right not to incriminate himself.  What if the boys had been alive but were at risk?  What if time was the essence in locating them?

 ::MonkeyMad::

Janet

I don't have a link, but was channel surfing and on HLN they were saying dad now has a lawyer.

Skelton, meanwhile, has hired an attorney. Harvey Koselka of Adrian could not be reached today, but his secretary confirmed he's handling legal work for Skelton.
http://www.freep.com/article/20101130/NEWS06/101130024/Search-for-3-missing-boys-likely-to-end-in-nightmare-Morenci-police-chief-says#ixzz16n1AhidO

Thank-you

FBI says there will be a news conf. at 3pm.
You can watch online @ http://www.myfoxdetroit.com/

http://twitter.com/roopraj

LIVE AT 3PM: News conference scheduled to announce recent developments in case of missing boys. http://bit.ly/ghQdP8

http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20446019,00.html
Police Fear Dire Outcome for Three Missing Boys
By Sara Hammel

Tuesday November 30, 2010 02:20 PM EST
Authorities in Michigan are bracing for bad news in the search for three Michigan brothers who disappeared when their father tried to commit suicide.

Morenci, Mich., Police Chief Larry Weeks acknowledged at a news conference Tuesday that police "do not anticipate a positive outcome here."

The conclusion is based on statements made by the boys' father, John Skelton, but Weeks would say no more.

"Because it's an ongoing and fluid situation, that information is not going to be made available to the public," Weeks said, adding that no decision has been made on possible criminal charges in the case.

Weeks also addressed how the boys' mother, Tanya Weeks – who is separated from her husband – is holding up, saying, "Imagine your worst nightmare coming true. How would you respond?"
Mental Hospital
John Skelton, who is being treated in an Ohio hospital for "mental health issues" after his suicide attempt, told investigators he dropped off his boys, 9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner, last Friday morning with a woman by the name of Joann Taylor, whom he allegedly met online. But police found no such woman with a connection to Skelton.

Authorities now believe that Skelton, 39, may have driven his sons to an area in Ohio between 2:30 p.m. Thursday and 1:30 p.m. Friday, when they were reported missing, Weeks said. The search continued in Northern Ohio Tuesday.


See what other readers have to say about this story – or leave a comment of your own

Thanks Pink.

Press conference from Morenci at 3 p.m. WATCH LIVE ON 13ABC.COM

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/livenow?id=7123045

live link. starting in about 6 minutes

Thank-you

Foxnews cable just announced the same   HERE IT IS LIVE that link and Foxnews Skelton charged with kidnapping - something about bodies being found in "holiday city"

correction to be clear   "parental kidnapping" is the official charge & officials are awaiting more info on the three bodies found nearby

Dad's been released from mental health facility. He's was arrested immediately by Lucas Co., MI police. He was charged with three counts of parental kidnapping. He will be extradited to OH.

Indication from the media that bodies have been found in Holiday City, posted on social media. They don't have any confirmation yet. A reporter on scene at ABC local has been following searchers all day and there has been no indications that anything has been found.

Arrested in Ohio, will be sent back to MI - correction to above

Thanks pink angel.

I pray that it is an announcement that will afford answers to where these little boys can be located.

Janet

It already took place at 3 pm EST.

The Michigan police chief heading the investigation for three missing brothers said in a press conference Tuesday, that the boys' father, John Skelton, has been arrested for parental kidnapping.

Skelton was released from a mental hospital and taken into custody by FBI agents outside of Toledo shortly before 3 p.m., according to Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks.

He is facing three counts of parental kidnapping.

Because he was arrested in another state he will face an extradition hearing to be returned to Michigan, Weeks said.

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-20024163-504083.html

Father of missing boys charged with parental kidnapping
By the CNN Wire Staff
November 30, 2010 -- Updated 2057 GMT (0457 HKT)

(CNN) -- Authorities arrested the father of three missing Michigan boys Tuesday, charging him with parental kidnapping, officials said.

John Skelton was arrested immediately upon his release from a mental health facility where he was being treated after an attempted suicide, Morenci, Michigan, Police Chief Larry Weeks told reporters.

Weeks said investigators have not found the children, despite internet rumors that began circulating Tuesday of their whereabouts.

http://edition.cnn.com/2010/CRIME/11/30/michigan.missing.boys/?hpt=T1

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/gallery?section=news/local&id=7816961&photo=3

(http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o100/klaasen3/Sub9%20June%202010/SkeltonPoster2.jpg)

(http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o100/klaasen3/Sub9%20June%202010/SkeltonPoster1.jpg)

(http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o100/klaasen3/Sub9%20June%202010/JohnSkeltonMugShot.jpg)

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=AATS

the latest 4 vids here, and more info
http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/state/amber-alert-issued-for-three-btothers-from-morenci%2C-michigan./?dal;fjsd;fj;

Local news not saying anything new except there will be a presser at 11am tomorrow.  LE not releasing any details of what POS is telling them.

There are rumors that the boys have been found but that is just a rumor at this time.

I hope they find the boys.  ::MonkeyAngel::
Thanks to eveyone for posting all the information

ive been looking for case studies on people that kill their kids, there has to be some indication
that its going to happen or at least something  really bad is going on, ya know
sometimes it seems like, mr x says, mr or mrs A seemed fine yesterday, i didnt really see any
indications or red flags,that something like this would /could happen
i just dont get it,seems someone close to these child killing parents would see,hear something that
would set off a red flag, if anyone has info on case studies,please pass it along TIA

I agree, you would think there would be a sign.  They interviewed neighbors of Skelton and they all say he was a good dad and they never had any problems with him.  Unlike the neighbors of the sicko that cut up and put the family in the tree...for him the signs were there.

But your mind has to be different for your kids right??  I would like to think so but there are way too many cases of the "average person" just snapping on their own family.

My personal opinion in this case is that Skelton lost his job, was losing his wife and kids, was going to have to pay child support, was already in jail for not paying child support -- I really do think he was in such a depressed state, snapped and the children were his victims.

This is all IMO and does not in any way excuse this POS for his actions.  I hate him!

Amanda added a PB page on the Skelton Boys:


http://s296.photobucket.com/albums/mm166/crankycrankerson/Andrew%20-Alexander%20-Tanner%20Skelton%20%20-MI-/

Sorry, I screwed that up because I was trying to do it on an ipad which doesn't scroll when you post comments. 
What I meant to say, outside of your quote box, was:

Google "family annihilator" and a bunch of stuff that seems to fit comes up.
 The below link summed it up quite well if you don't want to do the research.
www.associatedcontent.com/.../the_family_annihilator_fathers_who.html

Sorry for my crazy mistakes.

http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2010/11/missing_michigan_boys_father_c.html

The comments on this are interesting - here is one -
mj357 November 30, 2010 at 9:24PM
Follow

"I would not want three young boys living with an offender who was arrested for having sex with a young boy."

plzlisten: The facts are as follows; Yes, she is a registered sex offender and yes it was a 14 year old boy, however that was in 98 and of no relation. I am not justifying her previous action of criminal behavior however she was charged and she sought the help needed and will live with that poor decision the rest of her life.

More Fact: The Skeltons were married after her incident, do the math. Those children deserved to be in a safe home and I'm sorry but what Mr. Skelton has done was worse, there is no reason to bring up 12 years ago, unless she was sexually harming the boys. So, are you saying he killed them because he didn't want his children living with a registered sex offender?

Your children were not living with her, so that is nothing you have to worry about. Mrs. Skelton however, she had 3 boys a week ago that are now gone.

My prayers go out to this families horrific tragedy...

 ::MonkeyShocked::

I am not upholding Mr. Skelton.  He disgusts me.

However ...  Mrs. Skelton does not get a pass.  If the roles were reversed and a 44 year old male had sexually relations with a 14 year old girl ... would you consider it a" poor decision".  I would not.  I would call it deviant.  Considering the majority of 44 year old adults of either gender are not wired to be sexually attractive to 14 year old children ... I would consider it a sexual orientation

How in the world did this RSO ever obtain full custody of these boys?

Janet

http://www.wndu.com/michigan/headlines/Search_for_boys_continues_with_father_in_custody__111105594.html
Posted: 5:47 AM Dec 1, 2010
Search for boys continues with father in custody
Morenci, Mich.
Nine-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner Skelton haven't been seen since Thanksgiving.
Reporter: The Associated Press
Email Address: newscenter16@wndu.com
The key to finding three young Michigan brothers missing for nearly a week ultimately may lie with what their father tells police.

Thirty-nine-year-old John Skelton could face a hearing Wednesday to extradite him back to Michigan to face charges on three counts of parental kidnapping. He was arrested Tuesday in Ohio.

So far, police say Skelton hasn't said much that they can use as the search for his boys evolves from rescue to recovery.

For the fifth day in a row, an army of volunteers is expected to trudge across harvested fields, woodlands and dirt back roads in southern Michigan and northern Ohio in search of 9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner Skelton.

They haven't been seen since Thanksgiving in the small Lenawee County town of Morenci.

Janet - First - to clarify - this is a copy of a comment from the linked article - I find both of these parents disgusting - and I agree with you - even if you look back at 1998 - she was still 31 or 32 years old - I can not imagine at that age being attracted to a CHILD.

It makes me wonder what the father had in his past that made HER the more desirable parent in the court's eyes?

http://www.morningjournal.com/articles/2010/12/01/news/doc4cf6398bc0f41138344214.txt
Dad could be key in search for missing Mich. boys
Published: Wednesday, December 01, 2010
MORENCI, Mich. (AP) — The key to finding three young Michigan brothers who have been missing for nearly a week ultimately may lie with what their father tells police.

For the fifth day in a row, an army of volunteers are expected to trudge across harvested fields, woodlands and dirt back roads in search of 9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner Skelton, who have not been seen since Thanksgiving.
Video Report
http://video.ap.org/?f=ohlor&pid=UqDIM3_abVL0VqtJGjaE2N2OqFbTrwpm
So far, police say, the boys' father, 39-year-old John Skelton, hasn't told authorities much that they can use as the search for the boys evolves from rescue to recovery.

Skelton, an unemployed long-haul truck driver, was arrested Tuesday on three counts of parental kidnapping. He was being held in Lucas County Jail in Ohio and could face a hearing Wednesday to extradite him back to Michigan to face the charges in Lenawee County.

"He's been forthcoming with some information, the credibility of which we can't verify," Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks said Tuesday.

Weeks acknowledged police don't expect a "positive outcome" to the case after talking to Skelton over the course of the investigation.

Crews have searched parts of southern Michigan in and around Morenci, a small town of 2,000 people about 75 miles southwest of Detroit. They've also scoured hundreds of acres just south of Morenci in northwest Ohio for the boys.

A similar search in Ohio was conducted a few weeks ago about 130 miles to the southeast after a mother from Howard, Ohio, her friend, 13-year-old daughter and 11-year-old son disappeared. Police say the girl was found bound and gagged in a 30-year-old unemployed tree-cutter's basement and that he led them to the dismembered bodies of the other three stuffed in a hollow tree trunk.

The FBI and Morenci police haven't revealed the details of their talks with Skelton. Weeks said he has requested an attorney. Continued...http://www.morningjournal.com/articles/2010/12/01/news/doc4cf6398bc0f41138344214.txt?viewmode=2

A Pick your Poison situation for sure.  I have to wonder if John was given custody of the kids, would this have happened?. 

Regardless of the reason or situation, what a selfish, cruel way to play God to your children. 

http://www.toledoonthemove.com/news/story.aspx?id=548319
Crews move into recovery mode in search for young brothers
by Amulya Raghuveer
Posted: 34 mins agoTOLEDO, OHIO -- The search for three missing brothers continues Wednesday, while authorities continue to question the boys' jailed father.

John Skelton, 39, is being held in the Lucas County Jail after being charged in the case which has gripped communities across northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan.  He was arrested on Tuesday, on three counts of parental kidnapping, immediately following his release from an area hospital.

Crews continue to search for Skelton's three young sons, 5-year-old Tanner, 7-year-old Alexander, and 9-year-old Andrew.  The boys were last seen in the backyard of Skelton's Morenci home on Thanksgiving Day.  They were reported missing by their mother on Friday, the same say Skelton told authorities he gave the boys to a woman who was to take them back to their mother's home.  Skelton told investigators that he did not want his sons in the house when he attempted to kill himself.

Authorities have said their search for the boys has evolved from a rescue to a recovery effort. Searches by an army of volunteers and crews continues in southern Michigan and Williams County, Ohio.

According to sources, Morenci Police say John Skelton has admitted to FBI profilers that he killed his sons; however, authorities have decided to hold him on the kidnapping charges at this time.

An extradition hearing will be held as early as Wednesday in Lucas County Common Pleas Court so that Skelton can be moved back up to Michigan.

http://www.ksla.com/Global/story.asp?S=13594052
Dad could be key in search for missing Mich. boys
Posted: Dec 01, 2010 7:28 AM CST
Updated: Dec 01, 2010 7:28 AM CST
MORENCI, Mich. (AP) - The key to finding three young Michigan brothers who have been missing for nearly a week ultimately may lie with what their father tells police.

For the fifth day in a row, an army of volunteers are expected to trudge across harvested fields, woodlands and dirt back roads in search of 9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner Skelton, who have not been seen since Thanksgiving.

So far, police say, the boys' father, 39-year-old John Skelton, hasn't told authorities much that they can use as the search for the boys evolves from rescue to recovery. Skelton, an unemployed long-haul truck driver, was arrested Tuesday on three counts of parental kidnapping. He was being held in Lucas County Jail in Ohio and could face a hearing Wednesday to extradite him back to Michigan to face the charges in Lenawee County. "He's been forthcoming with some information, the credibility of which we can't verify," Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks said Tuesday.

Weeks acknowledged police don't expect a "positive outcome" to the case after talking to Skelton over the course of the investigation. Crews have searched parts of southern Michigan in and around Morenci, a small town of 2,000 people about 75 miles southwest of Detroit. They've also scoured hundreds of acres just south of Morenci in northwest Ohio for the boys.

A similar search in Ohio was conducted a few weeks ago about 130 miles to the southeast after a mother from Howard, Ohio, her friend, 13-year-old daughter and 11-year-old son disappeared. Police say the girl was found bound and gagged in a 30-year-old unemployed tree-cutter's basement and that he led them to the dismembered bodies of the other three stuffed in a hollow tree trunk.

The FBI and Morenci police haven't revealed the details of their talks with Skelton. Weeks said he has requested an attorney. Skelton's sister said she doesn't believe authorities are giving her brother a fair shake. Linda Ford, 40, of Jacksonville, Fla., said she has spoken twice with her brother since his failed suicide attempt Friday, including before his arrest on Tuesday.
Ford said authorities are trying to convince Skelton that a woman named Joann Taylor, whom he claimed to have given the children to, does not exist. "They're trying to tell my brother that he is Joann. That he made up an alter ego," Ford told the Detroit Free Press during a phone interview Tuesday night. Ford said Skelton was depressed after being fired from his job with an Ohio trucking company. She said he also was fired more than a year ago from another trucking company for drunken driving. "You can only push a human so far," she said. Ford said her brother has consistently maintained that the children are with Taylor. "His story has never changed," Ford said, adding that she "will stand by my brother."

About 250 volunteers joined agents, police and firefighters Monday in the search. Officials said about 225 signed up Tuesday. They were told to gather again at 10 a.m. Wednesday in Morenci's fire hall, the nerve center for the rescue operation. Michelle Williams will be among them. "I know the family - I've known `em for years," said Williams, 45, who brought chili to the fire hall this week for volunteers. "The grandmother taught me to sew. . They're great people." Her heart sank when she learned of Skelton's arrest. "It's just sickening. I just can't believe there's people out there that evil who would hurt their own kids," she said. "I'm still hoping that they find them and he's lied about the whole thing, because he's lied before." Lee Ann Underhill, a Morenci resident who went to school with the children's mother, Tanya Skelton, searched for the boys between her long overnight shift at a plastics factory and a few hours' sleep.

She said she knew the boys, and like others here, she said finding them is personal. "I've been through fields, creek beds and woods," Underhill said after returning from a search Tuesday afternoon. "We're looking for anything out of the ordinary." Another searcher, Bill Foster, said everyone in the town of 2,000 was hoping for a "Christmas miracle" and the boys' safe return. "The search has to continue. We won't quit the search until we bring the boys home," Foster said. Lenawee Sheriff's Department Corporal Jeff Paterson said he was part of a large group that scoured an 83-acre campsite in Ohio on Monday that's a few miles south of Morenci.

 "There were three ponds, sewage lagoons, then a wooded area with a creek," he said. Several barns in the area also were searched. He said when the terrain allows, grid searches are done, with searchers spreading out 10 feet apart and walking in the same direction. Eyes are focused on the ground at their feet. "Do it nice and slow so you don't miss anything," he said.
Locals began combing through fields and woods Saturday, the day after the boys' mother reported them missing and the day after John Skelton tried to hang himself. Skelton was arrested by FBI agents Tuesday afternoon following his release from a medical facility in Lucas County, Ohio. He initially told investigators he gave his sons to a female acquaintance to hand over to his estranged wife.

Police say he was lying. Tanya Skelton, 44, filed for divorce in September. A judge gave her custody of the boys, but she and John Skelton reached an agreement on visitation.

Police on Tuesday had the grim job of telling Tanya Skelton's family - her mother, specifically - that it was growing unlikely the children would be found alive. Her reaction: "Imagine your worst nightmare come true," Weeks said. "How would you respond?" --- Associated Press writer Jeff Karoub contributed to this report.

BBM

Where is the concern and tears for the 3 little boys ? What is wrong with these families ?

http://www.wtol.com/Global/story.asp?S=13594800

BREAKING NEWS
Skelton fighting extradition for kidnapping charges of MI boys
Posted: Dec 01, 2010 7:02 AM PST Updated: Dec 01, 2010 7:02 AM PST


TOLEDO, OH (WTOL) - John Skelton will fight extradition to Michigan for parental kidnapping charges of his three sons, who remain missing.

Skelton was charged while in a Lucas County hospital, which means he had to be extradited back to Michigan.

Bond was set at $3 million, and a second hearing is set in Toledo Municipal Court for Dec. 14.

WTOL's Lauren Lowrey is at the courthouse. We'll have more details on WTOL 11 News at Noon.

News conference starting.   

http://www.wtol.com/global/category.asp?c=170190

44 years old was a typo ... I meant 33 years old.

Why were those boys not placed in a safe environment away from both parents?

Janet

Nothing new that I heard, except the pastor of the church, the boys attended, spoke.

What kind of lawyer does this monster have? Just ignorant to fight extradition  ::MonkeyNoNo::

 ::MonkeyShocked::

If these three little boys were my nephews and ... I would be going up one side of my brother and down the other ... not justifying his choices ... not standing by him.

Janet

http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/skelton-in-jail%2C-action-news-uncovers-chilling-myspace-entry-from-some-time-ago

The text, as per the picture in the article (which is on flash and I can't copy paste it) is:

"(Chorus)
What did I do mom
What did I say
To make you put me down and run away?
Are you late for school, well that can't wait
I'm your little boy, so mom please stay.

I'm cold and alone in this metal room
With plastic bags and a worn out broom.
Nobody hears my call for you
Come back Mommy cause I need you.

(Chorus)

It's my dying breath and I see a glow
It's an angel from heaven
And he's taking me home.

John Skelton
___________________________________

Everyday a baby is abandoned. For every abandoned child, a loving couple who can't have a child are denied a chance to complete their family."

--------

Okay, I think Skelton's post was taken out of content. I don't think the last sentence was taken into consideration (he talking about abandoned kids and adoption.)

Again, not condoning the guy, just pointing out that the post was taken as more sinister than it is by the article writer.

IMO.

http://www.freep.com/article/20101201/NEWS06/101201068/1318/Anonymous-donor-offers-10K-reward-for-return-of-3-missing-boys

Posted: 5:01 p.m. Dec. 1, 2010
Anonymous donor offers $10K reward for return of 3 missing boys

An anonymous donor has offered a $10,000 reward for the return and/or recovery of the three missing Skelton boys, according to Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks.

The reward is nullified if the claimant is in any way involved in the disappearance of the children. The donor has acknowledged the dedication and hard work of the volunteers and public safety personnel and offers thoughts and prayers to the Skelton family," according to an e-mail announcing the reward.

No further information was provided about the donor or the reward itself

Read more: Anonymous donor offers $10K reward for return of 3 missing boys | freep.com | Detroit Free Press http://www.freep.com/article/20101201/NEWS06/101201068/Anonymous-donor-offers-10K-reward-for-return-of-3-missing-boys#ixzz16u49IRvU

Issues with JVM - HLN

Right Now!!!

Thanks Janet!

Sorry OT but Leroy could you tell me what kind of dog that is in your picture? Thanks

He is a white german shepherd!

TY i didnt know those type of crimes had a name/The Family Annihilator
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/266087/the_family_annihilator_fathers_who.html?cat=72
The Family Annihilator - Fathers Who Kill
4 pgs
in hindsight JS fits the profile
snips
pg 1
Fathers who kill their children, and frequently their wives as well,  are known as "Family Annihilators" to criminal psychologists or psychiatrists, and to law
enforcement. They are not mentally ill, but coldly calculating, and often spend months planning their crimes. Because they often kill themselves too
The major factors leading men to kill their families include impending divorce, male sexual jealousy, an obsession with control, and possessiveness
there are definite differences between men and women who kill or harm their children. He says that women tend to be mentally ill, frequently suffering from post-partum depression. Men, on the other hand, feel rage, jealousy, hatred, and revenge when they kill their families.

snips pg 2
American television leads most of us to seek a profile for killer "types." Dr. Levin has provided a profile of the family annihilator as a middle-aged man, who appears to others (outside the family) to
be a  good provider, a loving father, and a faithful and loving husband. But he tends to be isolated, with no close friends or support system of his own, aside from his family. He has suffered with feelings of inadequacy and some form of long frustration. Ultimately, he suffers some catastrophic loss which leads to his crime. This trigger may be the loss of his job, or loss of money through a bad investment, but sometimes it is the impending loss of his wife. He doesn't hate his children, although he may hate his wife and blame her for his own problems. He has previously been a controlling man, within the family, but now feels powerless. Dr. Levin's belief is that the family annihilator wants revenge against his wife.

snip pg 3
Men who kill their families, these annihilators, usually have no criminal record. They are the perfect citizen, with jobs as doctors, lawyers, businessmen, military personnel, or even law enforcement officers. They are not drug or alcohol abusers, nor are they usually under the influence of drugs or alcohol when they kill. Their sudden attack on their family may appear to come out of the blue. Levin states, though, that if they had been seen by psychologists prior to committing their murders, those psychologists would have noticed warning signs of rage, and of blaming others for their problems. They would also notice that these men think of their families as their possessions. Some experts believe, however, that there may be prior patterns of domestic abuse in these families, even though it is not always reported.

snip from pg 4
Can crimes like this be prevented? Probably not. Dr. Yellowlees said that it can take a long time, even years, for a woman to realize that her husband views her as a possession, and that "initially, a woman can feel flattered" if her partner displays jealousy. By the time she realizes the degree of his possessiveness, it may be too late. Whether this obsessive possiveness leads to rage or frustration and feelings of failure, the family annihilator believes his best course of action is to destroy his family, and he does so with cunning and careful planning.

http://www.cnn.com/2010/CRIME/12/02/michigan.missing.boys/index.html?eref=mrss_igoogle_cnn
Police call for end of volunteer searches for missing Michigan boys
December 2, 2010

CNN) -- Police are asking that the volunteer searches for three missing Michigan brothers be stopped by Friday night.

Local authorities and federal investigators have been trying to find 9-year-old Andrew Skelton, 7-year-old Alexander William Skelton and 5-year-old Tanner Skelton last seen on Thanksgiving.

The end of the volunteer searches will allow authorities the opportunity to process what has been done and collected and to "re-evaluate our direction for the following week," said Larry Weeks, police chief of Morenci, Michigan.

John Skelton, the boys' father who has been charged with parental kidnapping, is fighting his extradition from Ohio, authorities said Wednesday. A hearing is set for December 14.

Skelton was arrested Tuesday upon his release from a mental health facility where he was being treated after a suicide attempt, Weeks said.
Although investigators have found "a number of items," they still do not know the children's whereabouts, Weeks said.

Asked whether he believes that the boys are dead, Weeks said Wednesday, "I refuse to believe that at this point," saying he wanted to maintain hope. He did, however, repeat his Tuesday statement that a positive outcome is not anticipated.

Investigators have not spoken with Skelton "in some time," he said, or developed any additional information. He previously said authorities are skeptical of the information Skelton has provided.

Skelton said he left the three boys with a woman, whom he identified as Joann Taylor, the morning before he tried to take his own life -- in part to ensure that they did not witness his suicide attempt.

Skelton said Taylor was supposed to take the boys to their home in Morenci, a southern Michigan town of about 2,400 people about 40 miles west-northwest of Toledo, Ohio, Friday afternoon, Weeks said. But the boys never arrived.

Earlier, authorities determined that Skelton had no "established relationship" with the person he named as Taylor, and they aren't certain that she even exists.

Authorities continue to ask for the public's help, hoping someone saw Skelton's blue 2000 Dodge Caravan, in which he was believed to be carrying the boys along a 25-mile stretch of road between Morenci and Holiday City, Ohio.

The last time someone other than a family member saw the boys was at 5 p.m. on November 25, according to the chief.

Police say Tanner is 3 feet, 6 inches tall with strawberry blond hair and blue eyes, and weighs about 40 pounds. Alexander is 3 feet, 9 inches tall, has brown hair and eyes, weighs about 45 pounds and has scars on his hairline and chin. The oldest brother, Andrew, is 4 feet, 1 inch tall, has brown hair and eyes and weighs roughly 57 pounds.

http://www.freep.com/article/20101202/NEWS05/12020559/1318/Morenci-left-praying-for-missing-boys-as-father-is-jailed
Morenci left praying for missing boys as father is jailed
December 2, 2010

Andrew Skelton always was a "Star Wars" fan. Middle brother Alexander Skelton always walked little brother Tanner Skelton to class at Morenci Elementary each school day.

Once there, Alexander helped Tanner get his coat and backpack off and gave him a hug before he went to his own class.

On Wednesday, the principal and Tanner's teacher described the brothers -- ages 9, 7 and 5 -- as caring, sweet boys. The three have been missing since late last week, and Morenci police have said they now anticipate the worst.

Friends in Tanner's developmental kindergarten class made drawings for him. The teacher filled in text below, pairing pictures of scribbly stick figures, big-eared circle people and kids holding hands with messages like: "I miss Tanner. I pray for him."

An Ohio judge ordered their father, John Skelton, 39, jailed Wednesday in lieu of $3-million bail on three counts of parental kidnapping pending a formal extradition hearing Dec. 14 in Toledo. Skelton's court-appointed attorney declined on his client's behalf to waive Skelton's extradition rights.

Later Wednesday morning, Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks announced that if the brothers aren't found by the end of the day Friday, volunteers should stop searching for the weekend so officials can re-evaluate their direction next week. Also Wednesday, an anonymous donor offered a $10,000 reward for the return or recovery of the boys.

Community members and school officials remain hopeful.

"I have to have hope," said Janet Rollins, Tanner's teacher. "I still pray every day that they find them and that they're OK."
Missing boys' dad to stay in Ohio as hearing looms

Days after his three young sons went missing, John Skelton found himself in an Ohio courtroom, facing extradition to Michigan to face charges of parental kidnapping.

But Skelton, 39, of Morenci didn't go home Wednesday with the Morenci police and Lenawee County sheriff's deputies waiting in the courtroom.

Attorney Merle Dech Jr., who was appointed to represent Skelton at the hearing, said his client would not waive his rights, so a formal extradition hearing will be held Dec. 14 in Lucas County Common Pleas Court in Toledo.


The Skelton boys -- Andrew, 9, Alexander, 7, and Tanner, 5 -- went missing sometime between Thanksgiving afternoon and Friday morning. Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks has said police "do not anticipate a positive outcome here."

Skelton has said he gave the boys to a woman named Joann Taylor before he attempted to hang himself in his home, but police have said there was no established relationship between Skelton and a woman by that name.

Skelton looked downward as he was brought into court shackled and in a wheelchair, a fractured ankle apparently injured during an aborted suicide attempt. He was wearing a green bulletproof vest and a sort of green jail smock with an open back, showing off a Calvin and Hobbes tattoo on his back.

At the Dec. 14 hearing, Skelton also has the right to an identity hearing in which he may challenge whether Michigan authorities have the right suspect. Lucas County Common Pleas Court Judge Gary Cook told Skelton that, based on the presence of Michigan police officers, it seemed certain they had the right man.

Skelton, whose sister said he lost his job as a long-haul trucker last month, said he had no money for a lawyer. Cook arranged for Dech's services in advance, anticipating Skelton wouldn't be able to afford a lawyer on his own.
Search could be re-evaluated

As court proceedings began, volunteers and fire officials in Morenci continued to search.

Weeks said that if the brothers aren't found by the end of the day Friday, he is asking that volunteers stop searching so law enforcement officials can re-evaluate their direction for the next week.

He said public safety officials will continue to follow up on tips throughout the weekend, though. Weeks is requesting that anyone with private property in southwest Lenawee County and northeast Williams and northwest Fulton counties in Ohio scour their own land.

Weeks didn't elaborate but has said that information provided to law enforcement by Skelton leads police to believe the outcome of the case may be bleak.

Asked whether he thinks the children are dead and that John Skelton killed them, Weeks said: "I refuse to believe that at this point. It is my desire to maintain hope."

He said an account has been set up at the United Bank & Trust in Morenci for people to make donations to the Skelton family.
'I miss Tanner'

With the boys still missing, school officials have been fielding questions from inquisitive children, said Mary Fisher, principal of Morenci Elementary, where the brothers attended.

"It's snowing out, aren't they cold?" Fisher said children have asked. "How are they staying warm? Where are they?"

She said officials have been honest with the students, letting them know that their classmates are missing, allowing them to talk about their feelings and providing social workers.

Fisher said she didn't know John Skelton, but said Tanya Skelton was always in the building. "Mom was a good mom," she said.

And her kids are good kids, school personnel said.

Janet Rollins, Tanner's teacher, said in her more than 30 years of teaching, he is the sweetest kid she has had. On Wednesday, she said he loved to draw and was considerate. Rollins recalled last month when the kids were outside, and Tanner told her, "I can run really fast, but you gotta say 'Flash,' " then sprinted ahead.

Rollins said she holds out hope that the boys are safe. She said that in class earlier this week, a student suddenly said: "I miss Tanner."

"I know," she said she countered. "I miss him, too."
Lighting the way home

With Christmas nearing, people continued putting up holiday lights in Morenci's Wakefield Park -- something the Skelton family had begun helping with the Sunday before the boys went missing.

Morenci United Methodist Church Pastor Donna Galloway said Andrew told her that Sunday: "With the park all lit up and with the church all lit up, we are going to light up the town."

Once the lights are up, Trulla McClain, who said she took on the responsibility of decking out the park, wants to dedicate the decorations to the missing brothers. "We're gonna light the park up," she said, "so the boys know how to come home."

The outpouring of support included a stuffed Tigger left outside John Skelton's Congress Street home with "4 ever in our hearts" written across its chest, and a volunteer searcher's safety vest that had the missing boys' names listed on the back with the words "We don't quit!!"
*********************
 ::MonkeyTears::  Praying for the three Skelton brothers  ::MonkeyAngel:: ::MonkeyAngel:: ::MonkeyAngel::

Thanks, we have a wolf hybrid puppy that looks just like him :)

http://www.toledoonthemove.com/news/story.aspx?id=548913
Morenci keeps hope that young brothers will be found alive
by Amulya Raghuveer
Posted: 16 mins ago
MORENCI, MICH. -- Volunteers are not giving up hope as the search for three missing Morenci brothers enters its sixth day Thursday.

9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner have been missing since Thanksgiving Day when they were last seen playing in the backyard of their father's Morenci home.  Their father, John Skelton, is being held in the Lucas County Jail on $3 million bond, charged with three counts of parental kidnapping.

A $10,000 reward has been offered by an anonymous donor to anyone who can return the three missing boys to their mother.

Skelton has refused to give investigators information regarding his sons' whereabouts.  He was in a Lucas County courtroom on Wednesday, fighting extradition back to Michigan.  He was arrested and charged on Tuesday immediately following his release from a Toledo hospital.  He was hospitalized late last week after a failed suicide attempt.

In Morenci, police chief Larry Weeks says the search for the young Skelton brothers will continue, but repeated that the outcome doesn't look good. "My desire is to retain hope," Weeks said in a morning press conference. "The information we have does not indicate that this will have a positive outcome."

Weeks says the volunteer search effort will be suspended indefinitely on Friday evening.  Any subsequent leads or tips that come in will be followed up by public safety officials.

http://wtvbam.com/news/articles/2010/dec/02/still-searching-missing-children/
Still Searching For Missing Children
Posted Thursday December 2, 2010 1 hour, 2 minutes ago
MORENCI (WKZO) -- Searchers will be out today and again tomorrow literally beating the bushes in southern Michigan and Northern Ohio, looking for three missing boys from Morenci, Michigan.

They may have another motivation today. An anonymous donor has put up a 10-thousand dollar reward for whoever finds the boys. Police Chief Larry Weeks says if they don’t turn up by tomorrow evening, he will ask the searchers to take a time out, so he can figure out where they have been and where they have yet to search.

He is also asking private property owners to take a look around their own yards, where the searchers haven’t been able to go. Chief Weeks won’t confirm that the boy’s father, 39-year-old John Skelton has claimed he killed the boys to FBI agents because he has said so much that has turned out to be false.

The sister of John Skelton says she doesn't think authorities are giving her brother a fair shake. Forty year-old Linda Ford of Jacksonville, Florida tells the Detroit Free Press she has spoken twice with John Skelton since his failed suicide attempt Friday. Ford said authorities are trying to convince Skelton that a woman he claimed to have given the children to his an alter ego. Ford said Skelton was depressed after being fired. She plans to stand by him.

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/channel?section=news/local&id=7819688

(http://cdn.abclocal.go.com/images/wtvg/cms_exf_2007/news/local/7820559_448x252.jpg)

Candlelight vigil held for Morenci boys
Thursday, December 02, 2010


Archbold, OH -- Northwest State Community College student based group, Students for Community Outreach and Awareness (SCOA), will be holding a candlelight vigil for Andrew, Alexander and Tanner Skelton of Morenci, MI who have been missing since November 26th. Community members are invited to share in this time of reflection with the students and staff of NSCC for the missing boys and their family. Hot chocolate will be provided for all participants following the vigil.

The vigil will be at the flag pole at the main north entrance of the community college in Archbold, OH

The sister of John Skelton says she doesn't think authorities are giving her brother a fair shake. Forty year-old Linda Ford of Jacksonville, Florida tells the Detroit Free Press she has spoken twice with John Skelton since his failed suicide attempt Friday. Ford said authorities are trying to convince Skelton that a woman he claimed to have given the children to his an alter ego. Ford said Skelton was depressed after being fired. She plans to stand by him.    ::MonkeyNoNo::  I'm going to lose it now, an alter ego? An alter ego my butt. IMO he lost his job, he lost his wife, he lost his kids, don't have money to pay for any of his kids care and took this step of ridding himself of the boys. Didn't want his wife to have them either. WTH does Linda Ford think, this is the movie Psycho? Norman Bates alter ego was his mother, and John Skelton's alter ego is a woman who took his kids? What a load of BS

Where is the concern for her three precious nephews?  Abetting her brother in his choices ... in wrongdoing ... is not an expression of love for him or those little boys.

Janet

   

I know and I'm sickened by this. Why doesn't she haul her butt to go speak too him and maybe do some good, maybe he will tell her where the boys are.

You're so welcome.  I am fascinated by this kind of stuff, and how after the fact they can find so many shared personality traits in similar crimes.  Maybe someday it will lead to being able to prevent or at least be on guard for future crimes. 

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101202/NEWS16/101209951

(http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?Site=TO&Date=20101202&Category=NEWS16&ArtNo=101209951&Ref=AR&MaxW=500&title=1)
A member of the Angola, Ind. fire department searches a body of water at Lazy River Campground in Pioneer, Ohio.
( THE BLADE/DAVE ZAPOTOSKY )
Zoom | Photo Reprints
BLADE STAFF


Article published December 2, 2010

Four dive teams search for Morenci boys in Williams County; hundreds of volunteers head out on foot
Photo


PIONEER, Ohio — Divers were using sonar equipment Thursday afternoon at multiple bodies of water across Williams County to search for three missing brothers.

Scuba teams from Toledo, Angola, Ind., as well as from Lenawee and Williams counties, hoped to search in at least seven major bodies of water throughout the day, including possible searches at Nettle Lake and Mud Lake in the northwestern corner of the county.

Dennis Wisniewski, the head of the scuba team from Williams County, described the efforts as a "shot in the dark," saying investigators don't have direct information the Skelton brothers would be found in the area.

But he also said investigators believe their father John Skelton's cell phone was used in the area last week. In addition, several witnesses have come forward saying they saw Mr. Skelton's van exit from the nearby Ohio Turnpike.

In addition to the divers, 200 volunteers were searching on foot Thursday in the woods around Elmira, Ohio, which is just north of the turnpike in Fulton County.

Officials vowed at a morning news conference to continue the search for three young brothers who have been missing for nearly a week.

Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks said the Thursday morning news conference would be the last he would conduct but that did not mean he was giving up on the thought of finding the three Skelton boys: Andrew, Alexander, and Tanner.

"We do have concerted efforts in Williams County today with a number of resources we have available," the chief said. He said Williams County has been searched throughout the week because John Skelton, the father of the three boys, had been known to frequent locations there. Mr. Skelton is in jail in Lucas County on $3 million bond, charged with three counts of felony parental kidnapping.

The chief said the small community has been overwhelmed with the outpouring of support from across the country and while the volunteer search efforts will end Friday afternoon, there are a number of "public safety assets" at his disposal that "we can implement at a moment's notice."

Chief Weeks said law enforcement officials have interviewed relatives of John Skelton both in Michigan and Florida and they have appealed to him to tell them where the boys are but he still has not given a location of where his three sons may be.

"We're confident in the direction we're going," the chief said.

The chief then told the assembled reporters that he had met each of the three boys and would not rest until he knew what had happened to them.

He said he had been at the Skelton home when Andrew saw him, told him to wait a moment, and came back out wearing a toy police vest and cap.

"He told me, ‘I'm going to be a police officer like you some day." the chief recounted.

Morenci Mayor Keith Pennington said the community's Christmas parade that was to be held Saturday has been cancelled but another holiday event scheduled for Sunday evening will go on.

The mayor said no one in the small town will "be satisfied with the outcome until the boys come home," and then sent a plea to their father.

"John, if you know where they're are, please tell us."

http://www.wtol.com/Global/story.asp?S=13597848

(http://wtol.images.worldnow.com/images/13597848_BG3.jpg)

DEVELOPING NEWS
Crews search river south of Pioneer for missing boys
Updated: Dec 02, 2010 10:32 AM PST


PIONEERS, OH (WTOL) – Teams of rescue divers from three states are searching the St. Joseph River just south of Pioneer Thursday for three missing boys from Morenci.

The Toledo Fire Department's rescue divers, along with teams from Michigan and Indiana, are searching the river which runs along U.S. 20, just west of state route 15.

Crews will also search another nearby river and a gravel pit.

I wonder how long it will take him to tell where they are?  OMG... what is up with all these parents doing away with their children?  It is a scary world when kids aren't safe with their parents.

 ::MonkeyShocked:: ::MonkeyShocked::

http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2010-12-02-missing-boys-michigan_N.htm
Family of 3 missing boys OK with suspending search
Posted 31m ago |
By Gina Damron, Detroit Free Press
MORENCI, Mich. — Volunteers searching for three brothers missing after their father attempted suicide here almost a week ago have been asked to suspend their searches after Friday.
Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks said law enforcement officials will continue following up on tips but want time to re-examine their efforts.

"Those men and woman that have actually done the searching have been tireless," said Kathye Herrera, a friend of the family. "We would not want a tragedy because volunteers are too tired."
JOHN SKELTON: 3 missing boys' dad held on $3M bond  http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2010-12-01-missing-michigan-boys_N.htm
CHIEF: Missing boys' father charged with kidnapping  http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2010-11-30-michigan-missing-boys_N.htm

The Skelton brothers — Andrew, 9; Alexander, 7; and Tanner, 5 — went missing late last week during a Thanksgiving visit to the house of their father John Skelton, 39. Skelton's wife, Tanya, 44, is seeking a divorce from her husband.

The unemployed long-haul trucker in Morenci, near the Ohio border about 75 miles southwest of Detroit, had told police he gave his sons to another woman so they wouldn't have to watch him hang himself.

But officials now say that was a lie. Skelton is facing three counts of parental kidnapping and is being held in a Toledo, Ohio, jail on $3 million bond. He is under a suicide watch.

Search teams, including a dive team from Toledo, are now in Williams County, Ohio, which borders both Michigan and Indiana, Weeks said. FBI agents also have contacted Skelton's family in the Jacksonville, Fla., area.

On Wednesday, an anonymous donor offered a $10,000 reward for the return or recovery of the boys.

Weeks said he continues to be hopeful.

He was at Skelton's house on one occasion and remembers Andrew coming up to him.

"He said, 'Hey chief, how ya doin'?' " Weeks remembered, saying Andrew then ran back into the house and came back with toy police garb on. "He said to me, 'I'm going to be a police officer like you one day.'
That's been with me ever since."

BBM
If that doesn't make you tear up, nothing will.  My heart breaks for these boys.

Local news = searchers have come as far as Texas;  family okay with taking the weekend off to regroup; John had a contact visit from family member yesterday and at the end of the visit John yelled out "help find my kids". Today he requested a visit from a clergy member and to call his estranged wife.

LE will search this weekend if any tips come in.

The above was from the live broadcast... here is the link to the station I was watching

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/index

They will have a printed story soon.

Here is a really dumb question -- for the $10,000 reward, if John were to say were the boys are, is he entitled to this money? 

http://www.firstcoastnews.com/news/local/news-article.aspx?storyid=179612
Donor Offers $10K Reward in Missing Kids Case
MORENCI, Mich. -- An anonymous donor has offered a $10,000 reward for the return and/or recovery of the three missing Skelton boys, according to Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks.

"The reward is nullified if the claimant is in any way involved in the disappearance of the children. The donor has acknowledged the dedication and hard work of the volunteers and public safety personnel and offers thoughts and prayers to the Skelton family," according to an e-mail announcing the reward.

No further information was provided about the donor or the reward itself.

(snip)

Muffy  ::MonkeyKiss:: 

YW Leroy.  I think many are fed up with murderer's making money from book deals/movie deals and etc. off the back of their victims.  I believe some states now have laws about that, and I'm glad someone had the good sense to put in the conditions that were written in to the reward offer. 

I agree with that 100%.  Except, I would give this POS $100,000 if he would just say where these boys are...he knows and there has to be something that will make him talk...something!

Hi Monkeys, watching NG with a very heavy heart.  This area is so close to where my husband grew up.  I do not know how much worse these stories can get.....I never in my life thought I would read story, after story, of people doing heinous things to precious children.  Our world is in deep trouble....

Water board him NOW

My dad lives on a lake right near where the boys lived...I get a sinking feeling in my stomach when they announce the search area. 

You are so right, our world is in deep trouble...how does this happen time after time  ::MonkeyNoNo:: 

Hi everyone, I don't post much, but I am here everyday for Caylee, Haleigh, Zahra, Kyron and Natalee, and now these 3 adorable little boys.  I think the reward should also be nullified if the tip comes from a friend or relative because they obviously could have helped before now.

Hoping against hope that they aren't dead

My brother-in-law is on his way to Morenci to help search today. 

I am with CarolynV...hoping against hope they are found safe today  ::MonkeyAngel:: 

Better call him and tell him to come home....

Missing Michigan Boys Update: Police Call Off Volunteer Effort to Find Three Skelton Sons
9 hrs ago

TOLEDO, Ohio (CBS/AP) Countless volunteers have joined the search for Alexander, Andrew and Tanner Skelton, the three missing boys from Michigan who were last seen on Thanksgiving, but now the police are asking citizens to stop searching after Friday to let investigators process what has been gathered, and to reevaluate their strategy.

Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks announced at a daily news conference Wednesday that volunteers should report to the Morenci Fire Station on Thursday and Friday, but that police and investigators will continue alone beginning on Saturday, according to CBS affiliate WTOL.

The chief said they will take the weekend to evaluate all of the information they have, the station reported.

Local authorities and federal investigators have been trying to find 9-year-old Andrew Skelton, 7-year-old Alexander William Skelton and 5-year-old Tanner Skelton, all last seen on Thanksgiving.

Weeks has cautioned the public that police do not expect "a positive outcome," but he also told reporters he simply refuses to believe at this point that the children were killed.

"It is my desire to maintain hope," Weeks said.
Many residents of the small Michigan community of about 2,000 residents 75 miles southwest of Detroit, echo that sentiment.

"Please don't say RIP," 19-year-old Megan Nagy and another friend wrote in response to one Facebook post that read "RIP missing Morenci Boys."

"We all need to keep hope," Nagy wrote.

The boys were last seen with their father, John Skelton, who faces three kidnapping charges, and Morenci police Chief Larry Weeks has said Skelton hasn't said much about where the boys might be.

Police say he tried to hang himself, and that he lied to investigators when he first said he gave the boys to a female acquaintance to hand over to their mother, Skelton's estranged wife Tanya, who was awarded custody of their sons.

Rev. Donna Galloway, of the United Methodist Church in Morenci, recalled the boys and their parents helping decorate the church and a nearby park for the Christmas season on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.

"It was a good day, it was a family day, for all of us at the church. That light - and the season of light - is what we're holding on to," she added.

That was the last time Galloway saw the family together.

John Skelton appeared at a hearing Wednesday in Toledo, Ohio, where he fought extradition to Michigan. The 39-year-old unemployed long-haul truck driver sat throughout the hearing in a wheelchair, covered by a green blanket, answering the judge's yes-or-no questions in a whisper. The judge set bond at $3 million and scheduled another hearing for Dec. 14.

"It is my desire to maintain hope," Weeks said.
http://www.wtsp.com/news/national/story.aspx?storyid=160183

That article must be incorrect...this one is more recent and I know he called before he left.



Police ask for volunteers on final day of Morenci ground search
Posted: Dec 03, 2010 4:20 AM EST
Updated: Dec 03, 2010 7:03 AM EST
 
MORENCI, MI (WTOL) - Friday, Dec. 3 is the final day for the volunteer ground search of three missing Morenci, MI brothers.

Crews ask anybody who can help them to come out and search.

Nine-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner Skelton have not been seen since Thanksgiving, when they were with their father in Morenci.


"I think the community of Morenci needs it, to find these little boys and the family needs to find these little boys, just to make make all our hearts at ease," said Steve Meller with the Morenci Fire Department.

Volunteers meet at 9 a.m. across the street from the Morenci Fire Department located on Main Street in Morenci.

Hundreds of people have been searching across three counties, looking for any signs of the young children. In Wednesday's news conference, Morenci Police Chief Weeks said they are ending the volunteer search Friday until further notice. FBI & Morenci investigators will search over the weekend. Police will evaluate evidence collected and reassess the search plan. If needed, volunteers will be asked to reconvene next week.

http://www.wtol.com/Global/story.asp?S=13609745

I think they were referring to calling off the search for the weekend....not for today.  Only LE will be searching this weekend.

Here's a case archive album, it is updated several times a day.

http://s296.photobucket.com/albums/mm166/crankycrankerson/Andrew%20-Alexander%20-Tanner%20Skelton%20%20-MI-/

JS didnt just pull the name taylor out of the air,JMO
he was a long/short haul trucker,on a long haul he prob went
 to 4-6 states,including MI, and short haul,2-3 states
maybe LE should check his manifests for the last yr he worked

i checked the web cams around Morenci, MI 49256
zoom out in map view
http://tinyurl.com/2ce6m9z

i looked out to a 50mi radius from Morenci, MI 49256
for taylor st/ ave found these 2

south of Morenci, MI 49256
north of this addy are 2 retention ponds
and 7 mile south is Maumee State Forest
605 Taylor Street, Delta, OH

west of Morenci, MI 49256
their are several co.name listed for this addy
i think it is a warehouse complex for several co.
marble lake MI is 4 mi south
87 Taylor Street, Quincy, MI

if any monkeys are close by and helping search maybe this will help you
lot of info about camps, lakes, ect. in that area
http://www.goingoutside.com/lake/108/1083153_Nettle_Lake_Ohio.html

i thought about if JS did harm his sons, there are 3, would they
all be in the same place, or 3 dif locations, JS timeline would
help with that info, i read the boys were seen fri evening and
thur evening, and his suicide attempt was late fri nite early
sat morn,hoping LE can sort the timeline out

Thank you.   ::MonkeyKiss::

http://www.foxtoledo.com/dpp/news/local/Morenci-Mich-volunteers-likely-to-continue-search

(http://media2.foxtoledo.com//photo/2010/11/29/Missing_Morenci_boys_sb115ae06-6274-4887-947f-90285f89d89b0002_20101129185903_320_240.JPG)

Volunteers likely to continue search for missing Morenci boys
Police suspending organized searches after Friday

Updated: Friday, 03 Dec 2010, 9:42 AM EST
Published : Friday, 03 Dec 2010, 9:42 AM EST

MORENCI, Mich. (AP) - Volunteers who've been searching for three young brothers from Michigan the past week aren't likely to stop even though authorities plan to suspend their efforts over the weekend.

Police say they're suspending organized searches after tonight so they can rethink their efforts and decide what to do next.

Nine-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner Skelton haven't been seen since Thanksgiving Day. Their father is jailed in Ohio and faces kidnapping charges in Michigan.

Much of the search in recent days has been centered around three counties in the northwestern corner of Ohio. Dive teams yesterday searched lakes, rivers and a gravel pit. Buses carried hundreds of volunteers to remote roads and fields.

Rev. Donna Galloway, of the United Methodist Church in Morenci, recalled the boys and their parents helping decorate the church and a nearby park for the Christmas season on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.

"It was a good day, it was a family day, for all of us at the church. That light - and the season of light - is what we're holding on to," she added.

That was the last time Galloway saw the family together.

John Skelton appeared at a hearing Wednesday in Toledo, Ohio, where he fought extradition to Michigan. The 39-year-old unemployed long-haul truck driver sat throughout the hearing in a wheelchair, covered by a green blanket, answering the judge's yes-or-no questions in a whisper. The judge set bond at $3 million and scheduled another hearing for Dec. 14.

"It is my desire to maintain hope," Weeks said.
http://www.wtsp.com/news/national/story.aspx?storyid=160183


Someone help me with this please...the Rev. in this article says the boys and their PARENTS were decorating for the upcoming season the Sunday before Thanksgiving?  So Mom just up and left the week the boys go missing and Dad tries to hang himself.  Am I wrong?  I thought there was some kind of custody arrangements made.  Did they happen all in one week?  I'm so confused.  If the wording is wrong in this article then just how long have the parents been seperated?  I don't think we have heard.  I gotta go to work and hope you all have a great day and TIA for any answer you can give.  Will be back tonight.

I believe she meant the father and girlfriend.  The bio mom claims to not have seen the kids for a year.

Missing Mich. boys' dad had lost job, custody
11/30/2010

The boys were reported missing Friday by their mother, Tanya Skelton, who was awarded custody after filing for divorce on Sept. 13.  They had been with their father as part of court-ordered visitation.

The Skeltons married in 2002. It was the second marriage for both.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40427984/ns/us_news-life/


Town says it won't give up hope for missing boys
updated 12/2/2010 12:53:47 PM ET

At the United Methodist Church in Morenci, the Rev. Donna Galloway found herself correcting her speech about the brothers as she described them. "They were very vital and important — they are — a very vital and important part of our church," she said.

She recalled the boys and their estranged parents helping decorate the church and a nearby park for the Christmas season on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.

That was the last time Galloway saw the family together.

The following Friday, Tanya Skelton reported the boys missing when their father didn't return them. Police say he tried to hang himself and that he lied to investigators when he said he first gave the boys to a female acquaintance to hand over to their mother.

Tanya Skelton, 44, filed for divorce in September. A judge gave her custody of the boys, but she and John Skelton reached an agreement on visitation.

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/40468037/ns/today-today_people/

http://www.wtol.com/Global/story.asp?S=13611249

Search for 3 missing MI brothers consumes hometown
Updated: Dec 03, 2010 8:13 AM PST
(http://wtol.images.worldnow.com/images/13611249_BG1.jpg)

MORENCI, Mich. (AP) — Volunteers who've been searching for three young brothers from Michigan the past week aren't likely to stop even though authorities plan to suspend their efforts over the weekend.

Police say they're ending organized searches after Friday night for the weekend so they can rethink their efforts and decide what to do next.

Nine-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner Skelton haven't been seen since Thanksgiving Day. Their father is jailed on kidnapping charges.

Much of the search in recent days has been centered around three counties in the northwestern corner of Ohio. Dive teams on Thursday dove into lakes, rivers and a gravel pit. Buses carried hundreds of volunteers to remote roads and fields.

Klaas, I just did a usapeoplesearch. I came up with other aliases for TLS. I know sometimes other people's names can become attached to another's name in error, but I see a Tammie Lynn Roberts under Tanya's info. I did a search on TLR and found an old MySpace a/c from 2001. This person's photo resembles Tanya Skelton in thinner years...but not sure if they're the same person. I won't post the url as it's easy enough to search & I wouldn;t want this person linked if it's an error. Does it even mean anything anyway? I see that Tanya got out of jail in 2000.

Now, the address on her Sex Offender Registry is 617 Maple Dr, Morenci, MI, 49256. The address she had with John, which I think is where John still lives (except for now with him residing in the jail), is 112 E Congress St, Morenci, MI 49256-1208. Does everybody realize this is VERY close to one another? The addresses are literally only a few blocks apart. From the house on E Congress go: 1. Head east on E Congress St toward Maple Dr (351 ft), 2. Take the 1st left onto Maple Dr (.2 mi), you've arrived at your destination.

Now here's the kicker: I did a 411 reverse address search and found that people with the last name of TAYLOR either live there or lived there at one point or another. So...the lunatic didn't just pull the name of Taylor out of thin air iykwim.

I just want to make a quick note here.  One time I searched myself, and found all kinds of things that weren't correct.  People attached to me that were not, addresses that I never ever lived at and etc.  So I'm careful to take some of the searches with a grain of salt.   :smt102

Thank you, MUffy. I agree, which is why I didn;t supply the url...but...the resemblance is there. There's even a picture of this person alone, plus one with her daughter I guess? I threw the name in there so you could judge for yourself. Again, I'm not quite sure it would mean anything anyway. I know years ago there was a last name of somebody my father was engaged to attached to my info online. It took me 4 years to get this stupid chick off of my credit. She apparently used my info to go to the hospital. I won but had to go through a lawyer. Having said that, I know it happens, erroneous info attaching itself to pertinent true info...especially with those usa people searches & veromi, etc. Still, thought I'd put it out there in case it could help in the future. I mean, hey, maybe when Tanya got out of jail, she was a little embarassed so used a fake name or something. Who knows really. I still feel bad for her.

Oh, something else, I keep seeing it being reported that she was found guilty of a misdemeanor. I know we've also read that she had sex with a 14 y/o, but was that proven in court? Or could she have just plead guilty to a lesser charge, hence the misdemeanor, and agreed to the sentence of 1 year + Registering as an Offender? I'm sort of wondering if she plead guilty to just get it over and done with. Then again, I don;t know the ins & outs of her crime. I haven't read her original documents in full. I mean, sex offenders aren't allowed to be on public internet sites such as Facebook & MySpace (even though we all know they do), but wouldn't a judge have seen that when John counter claimed against her divorce filing in September? If so, she would have been reprimanded, and her having children would be beside the point. The rules are rules & strict guidelines should be followed in all jurisdictions. Let me reiterate that I in no way believe her offender status has anything to do with what John did to/with their children, but thought I'd bring up those pretty valid points.

Thank you Titch.   ::bee:: 

I have been wondering if Joann Taylor was an alias Tanya ever used.  And where is she now?

I believe LE knows how/why he used the name Joann Taylor. 

This article is very intersting about 2 kids whose father shot them then buried them along the highway  http://toledoblade.com/article/20101203/NEWS16/101209934 

Here is a snip from the article:

Mr. Strelzin said it was frustrating that Gehring would not just tell authorities where he buried the children.

“I'm convinced he knew exactly where those kids were, but he was going to use it as a bargaining chip,” Mr. Strelzin said. “It's not unusual in those types of cases for the perpetrator to try to trade the location of the bodies for a reduced sentence.”

Gehring ended up killing himself in jail before revealing the location of the bodies. Because there was no longer a criminal case to prosecute, Mr. Strelzin said, his office did not need to protect the information it had.

“After Gehring killed himself, we put all the information we had on the Web, and private citizens just started going out and doing their own searches,” he said. “In hindsight, that is what allowed the Gehring children to be located, that sharing of information, which you can't do with an active case — at least not to the extent we were able to do it. As callous as it sounds, if those children are dead, the most important thing is to bring the perpetrator to justice first.”

i meant to post the map link b4, and i think the addy is right
js house to,ts house
http://tinyurl.com/2wmpn56

wow leroy
the Ngas pipeline follows along the turnpike, i had looked on
i think it was terra server, not sure if you can see it on google

 leroy i had forgot about the Gehring case, he kept saying that there
was a water pump and a yellow building where the kids were, turned out
i was at a buddies house,long story but he had one of these,and in NH
they didnt
natural gas wellhead
http://www.energyindustryphotos.com/gaswellhead2web.jpg 

then everyone me included started finding the access roads to the wells
out on rt 8 hudson,Gehring kept saying 8, turned out to be old 8 nearby
i think a lady from akron found them, i had searched the day b4,about
2mi up road, got dark on me and had to go
more info,on what we did here
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TheCCTT/

Hey Muffy, that post I made earlier referencing the last name of "TAYLOR"... Well the people listed at that house, which is Tanya's residence listed on her RSO, is her daughter & son-in-law. Andrew was the ring bearer in their wedding. Brittany & Joshua. Again, I know it's sickening about Tanya's past, but for all intents & purposes she is not the one that disappeared her children. Her 2 oldest daughter's names are Courtney and Brittany. Brent Derby is her ex-husband. There's some pretty interesting info in this following article, especially where it talks about how much money Tanya and her ex hubby agreed to pay the victim - Brent: $10K and Tanya: $20K. So they get divorced and Tanya remarries. She & John claim bankrupcy, which we now find out is discharged in 2003 (or something like that). Wow. Just Wow. I am sick beyond sick. Reverse address search of 617 Maple Dr shows Brittany & Joshua Taylor. They are Tanya's daughter & soninlaw. Loonytoon John didn't just pull that damn name out of thin air. Was he mad because he lost his daughter shortly after moving to Morenci MI from Alaska? He originally won custody but shortly after moving to Morenci, his exwife gained full custody rights. He served time in jail for failure to pay child support - the dude only had to pay a lil over $300 a month! He was over $3000 in arrears! That's about 10 months! Are you kidding me? This article states there were many court records showing attempted garnishments of Tanya's wages - they probably kept her Fed Inc Tax Ret! Apparently some kind of sex offense took place to warrant a $30K lawsuit win for the victim. What the heck? After reading this article, I'm thinking that John probably felt he had absolutely nowhere to turn since he already lost his daughter to his exwife and now his 3 boys to Tanya whom happens to also be a sex offender. But why didn't he have a problem with it when he met her? That's what I keep asking myself. Well, something I didn't think of til today... Maybe he didn't know she was an offender until after they were married and had kids. Remember, he moved to Michigan from Alaska. Or am I missing something? I think it's possible that he didn;t know until it was too late to turn back...at least I'm wondering that. This guy makes himself appear intelligent, computer savvy, etc. Well how intelligent can he be, folks, if he can't even spell ACADEMIC correctly? He spelled it "acedemic" on his MySpace a/c!

http://www.myspace.com/craftybikermom = Tanya Skelton
http://www.myspace.com/bonesdoesit = John Russell Skelton
http://www.myspace.com/derby924 = Courtney Derby
http://www.myspace.com/brtaylor87 = Brittany Taylor (Derby)

XXXX BLOCKED WEBSITE






BLOCKED WEBSITE



[/quote]

Janet, I can hear you in my ear right this very minute. You kept saying she shouldn't get a free pass...in so many words. I believe you may be right here. Do I think Tanya is responsible for her children's disappearance? No, I don;t...I believe John's the one responsible. However, after reading this, it shed's a different light. Tanya may be a very good person now, and she appears to be a good mother. But after doing the math, looking at when they were married, when they had children, the timing of the bankrupcy, bills, neither working - it definitely shed's a new light.

Something else: Why wasn't Tanya working if she knew she had a civil judgement against her for the amount of $20K to pay her victim for pain & suffering? Wouldn;t it be sad...very very sad...if John had life insurance policies on his 3 children & Tanya's the beneficiary? How sad would it be if those 3 innocent children are deceased and their insurance policy payouts could pay off Tanya's civil judgement? I absolutely need to step away right now. I thought I'd look at it from a different angle, woke up this morning with bright eyes & lots of sleep, now I'm sick all over again...just to a different extreme.

Muffy, Klaas, somebody? Is there any given way one of you could please highlight the article I posted (between the QUOTE & UNQUOTE)? IDK, maybe change the font color to Blue or something...so it doesn't look like I'm the one that wrote it? Thanks so much!

How's that?

I wub u Klaas!

Oh, I didn't take snapshots of the MySpace's a/c's bc my son's computer is acting a little wiggy. I'm erasing the harddrive & reprogramming it tomorrow. He goes on those game sites & Facebook all the time. Playing those stupid games on Facebook will screw with your computer bigtime! I tell him all the time. We have a good firewall, protection software, etc - no matter. If there's a virus or spam, my son will find it. Thank gosh I have patience!

Thanks for all the digging, Titch.   ::MonkeyShovel::

Anytime. I'd start going through records, if I can find any, but I need to wake up early. We're taking our son to Breakfast with Santa. He's 8 - I'm sure this is his last year believing... :-(

After we get back, I'm erasing this stupid harddrive and fixing my son's computer. I should have sometime back on here tomorrow afternoon...late afternoon. If somebody beats me to it, or finds the links & needs help, just leave the links & I'm in when we get back (& the computer's fixed).

I keep seeing unconfirmed reports that John Skelton said he murdered his boys...that he told the fbi something to that effect... Why aren't they announcing it, though, if it's true? Could it be bc he said something to an agent but then requested a lawyer, so it would be thrown out if he said "But I didn't say that" or "But I don't remember saying that" or could it be bc he said it while he was in the mental hospital and not lawyered up? This is bugging me so much.

O/T - when my son was about 8 or so he asked me about Santa.  I told him that the Santa's in the store were helpers and that the real Santa was in your heart.  That it was the spirit of Santa that made everyone want to give to others at Christmas.  That seemed to satisfy him  ::santawink::

This was such a sad story.  Thanks for all you do CW  ::MonkeyKiss:: 

Titch, I think he is going for insanity.  But what do I know about minds like his and hers?
Many times Janet and I respectfully don't agree, but I wholeheartedly agree . . . this woman gets no pass from me either.  Yet as someone pointed out . . . they are both poison (not Janet and me, the bios).

http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/ohio-news/jailed-father-of-missing-mich-boys-gets-visitors-1020595.html
Jailed father of missing Mich. boys gets visitors
The Associated Press 9:10 AM Saturday, December 4, 2010

MORENCI, Mich. — An Ohio official says clergy members visited the jailed father of three Michigan brothers last seen on Thanksgiving as part of an effort to talk about where the boys might be found.

Lucas County jail administrator Jim O'Neal tells the Detroit Free Press for a story published Saturday that the two clergy members and a family member of 39-year-old John Skelton made the visit earlier in the week to the Toledo, Ohio, jail.

O'Neal says the visit was requested by authorities.

Officials in the southern Michigan community of Morenci (muh-REN'-see) say no organized search is planned over the weekend for 9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner Skelton. Hundreds of police, fire officials and volunteers have been searching southern Michigan and northern Ohio.

John Skelton is charged with parental kidnapping.

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/channel?section=news/local&id=7819688

No search planned for Morenci boys over weekend
Friday, December 03, 2010


Hundreds of searchers combed the southern Michigan and northern Ohio countryside again Friday for three young brothers last seen at their father's home on Thanksgiving. With the search ending unsuccessfully, authorities prepared to use the weekend to determine what else should be done to find the boys.

Morenci police had said Friday's search would be the last organized one of the week using volunteers, and fire official Bob Mohr said Friday evening that no search was planned for Saturday or Sunday.

Still, it's unlikely those who have turned out will stop looking for Andrew, 9, Alexander, 7, and Tanner Skelton, 5.

The search has consumed Morenci, a town of about 2,000 residents 75 miles southwest of Detroit. Saturday's annual Christmas parade has been cancelled, and City Hall shut down so it could be used as a command center.

Much of the search in recent days has centered on three counties in the northwestern corner of Ohio. Dive teams dove into lakes, rivers and a gravel pit, while buses carried hundreds of volunteers to remote roads and fields.

The boys' father, John Skelton, faces three kidnapping charges and is fighting extradition from Ohio to Michigan. He remains jailed on a $3 million bond.

Morenci police Chief Larry Weeks said earlier this week that Skelton, 39, has provided some information, but authorities have had no contact with him during the past few days.

The boys' mother, Tanya Skelton, 44, reported them missing Nov. 26 after their father didn't return them from a court-ordered visitation. Police say John Skelton lied to investigators when he said he gave the boys to a female acquaintance to hand over to their mother before he tried to commit suicide.

Skelton's attorney at the extradition hearing has said he wouldn't comment on anything about the case. Skelton's sister, Linda Ford of Jacksonville, Fla., has said that she didn't think authorities were treating her brother fairly.

Police have said they don't expect a positive outcome. Mohr said that if volunteers are needed to search again, officials will put out the word through the media.

Her 3 nephews are missing and Linda Ford doesn't think police are treating her brother fairly? She isn't helping the situation with her claims. You'd think rather than compain, she'd want to appeal to her brother on where her nephews are.

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/channel?section=news/local&id=7819688

(http://cdn.abclocal.go.com/images/wtvg/cms_exf_2007/news/local/7820559_448x252.jpg)

Memorial candle burning until Skelton boys found
Saturday, December 04, 2010
 

People from all over are keeping the Skelton boys in mind. In Toledo, a candle is burning and three yellow ribbons have been placed at the Toledo Children's Memorial.

The memorial is located at the intersection of Jackman and Eleanor. Organizers say it is to remember children that have passed away and to provide hope for the community that the Skelton boys will be found safe.

We're told the candle will burn until the children are found.

Awww, this memorial is so beautiful...I have to drive past it often.  One of the girls, who I believe was one of the *original* girls that died...her father came into the credit union where I worked at the time.  It was so heart-breaking....he brought in her last paycheck from her job...a paycheck she was never able to see.  She was killed in a car accident at that intersection...as I remember it, the guy that hit her was racing and hit her car as she was turning left.  It was a horrific scene. 

God bless these boys and all the children at this memorial   ::MonkeyAngel:: 

My daughter wished she had taken a few moments and talked to her eldest prior to the Christmas season following his 8th birthday.  According to tradition ... Z. and three younger siblings were sitting for their picture with Santa when Santa ask them what they wanted for Christmas.  All four told him their desires and then Z. as if he could talk to him about something.  Santa obliged.  Z. pour out his heart about a friend that did not believe and ... wanted Santa to reveal himself to this friend on the big day.

Janet

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=AATS

http://www.myfoxdetroit.com/dpp/news/vigil-for-skelton-boys
Candles and Hope: Emotional Vigil Held for Three Missing Morenci Boys
Volunteer search effort halted Friday

Updated: Monday, 06 Dec 2010, 6:16 AM EST
Published : Sunday, 05 Dec 2010, 9:00 AM EST

By myFOXDetroit.com Staff

MORENCI, Mich. (WJBK) - Hundreds of people lit up the small, rural city of Morenci with candles, flash lights and Christmas lights during a vigil Sunday night for three missing boys.

A local pastor said the event was held to "light the way home" for Andrew, 9, Alexander, 7, and Tanner Skelton, 5, who've been missing since Thanksgiving. Their father, John Skelton, is in jail charged with parental kidnapping. He has not cooperated with investigators.
Friday, police ended the volunteer search effort for the boys. That effort included a dive team and hundreds of people searching fields and abandoned properties. John Skelton reportedly got a jailhouse visit from clergy members and family members who appealed to him for information.

That effort was unsuccessful. Skelton is fighting extradition to Michigan. Police and the FBI continue to follow leads in the case. Stay with Fox 2 and myfoxdetroit.com for continuing coverage.

Video at link.

http://www.indianasnewscenter.com/news/local/Extradition-Process-To-Begin-For-Skelton-111446334.html (http://www.indianasnewscenter.com/news/local/Extradition-Process-To-Begin-For-Skelton-111446334.html)

Extradition Process To Begin For Skelton

(http://media.indianasnewscenter.com/images/470*261/John-Skelton-extradition.jpg)

By Scott Sarvay

December 7, 2010

MORENCI, Michigan (Indiana’s NewsCenter) -An update on the case involving the search for those missing Michigan boys.

Indiana's NewsCenter has learned the extradition process of John Skelton from Ohio to Michigan can begin.

Michigan's governor has completed paperwork to be sent to the Ohio’s governor's office to have John Skelton returned to face kidnapping charges for his three boys who remain missing.

Tanner, Andrew and Alexander Skelton are all under the age of 10, and were reported missing by their mother on Thanksgiving.

Police and fire departments are leading organized search and recovery efforts.

Not treating her brother fairly?  How does she want them to treat him?  I know how I'd treat him, just give me some "tools".

awwwwwww..... how sweet is that.

I have not been over here to see what is going on with this case.  Has the father said he killed these boys?

this story seems to have quieted down, atleast media wise, wonder whats going on....

This story was just on my local news....here in Maine.

MuffyBee

The O/T that I quoted was an addendum to Titch's post by Klaasend.  That is why it was highlighted in red.

I realize I messed up when I snipped Titch's words and ... only quoted Klaas.

I apologize.

Janet

http://www.mlive.com/news/index.ssf/2010/12/grandparents_john_skelton_says.html

Grandparents: John Skelton says three missing Michigan boys are safe
Published: Wednesday, December 08, 2010, 7:35 PM     Updated: Wednesday, December 08, 2010, 7:41 PM

TOLEDO, Ohio  — The grandparents of three southern Michigan brothers last seen on Thanksgiving say they've been assured by the boys' jailed father that the children are safe, but he won't say where they are.

John Skelton's parents tell reporters from Toledo and Detroit TV stations that they visited him Wednesday in a Toledo jail. He's fighting extradition charges to Michigan on parental kidnapping charges.

WDIV-TV in Detroit reports that William and Roxanne Skelton say they believe their son. They also say he seems depressed.

Police have said the unemployed truck driver fabricated a story about leaving 9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner with an acquaintance.

Volunteers have been searching southern Michigan and northern Ohio since their mother reported them missing on Nov. 26.

I apologize if this has been posted prior (I'm new at posting on here)  ::rhino::

Report: Missing Skelton brothers may have been spotted at Ohio doughnut shop
Published: Tuesday, December 07, 2010, 11:46 AM     Updated: Tuesday, December 07, 2010, 12:37 PM
 Mike Itchue | MLive.com
Follow Share this story
Story tools
Video: Sandy Jones says she may have spotted the missing Skelton brothers on WTVG-TV in Toledo.
 
417
Share  28 Comments A Toledo television station is reporting that a doughnut shop employee may have spotted the three missing Skelton brothers in her Sandusky, Ohio shop three days after they were last seen.

Sally Jones tells WTVG-TV Channel 13 that three young boys came into the House of Donuts in Sandusky on the Sunday after Thanksgiving with a middle-aged, medium build woman.


Dec. 6, WTVG: Jones told us, "The two older ones didn't act like they wanted to come through that door when they first came in and they kind of huddled together. The younger one kind of looked up and was looking around. He looked like he wanted everything and she kept saying 'Just pick out your donut, Tanner. Just pick out your donut.' That's the only reason I know his name and when I saw it in the newspaper, I said 'That's too much of a coincidence.'"

Andrew, 9, Alexander, 7 and Tanner, 5, Skelton of Morenci have been missing since Thanksgiving. An extensive search for the boys in Morenci and northern Ohio in the days since has turned up no results. Their father John Skelton is currently being held in a Toledo jail on charges of kidnapping and is fighting extradition to Michigan.

John Skelton originally told police he gave the boys to an acquaintance before a failed suicide attempt. Police now believe that this woman does not exist.

Jones did not file the report with the police until this past weekend, nearly a week after the initial possible sighting. Jones said she was unaware of the missing boys at the time and was hesitant to call once she found out because she didn't know the car or license plate and didn't know if her report would be of any help. She described the woman with the boys as having a medium build, dark eyes and short hair.

"She was about 5'5", 5'6". She looked like she was in her 40s," Jones told WTVG. "She looked very tired and haggard. She had dark hair that looked like it had just been dyed."


http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2010/12/report_missing_skelton_brother.html

Hi Cardinal - thanks for posting, I really hope that's true!

Here is the video of that woman who thinks she saw them.  I hope this is true:

Grandparents: Dad says 3 missing boys safe  DataFeatures
about 6 hours ago
TOLEDO -- The grandparents of three southern Michigan brothers last seen on Thanksgiving say they've been assured by the boys' jailed father that the children are safe, but he won't say where they are.

John Skelton's parents tell reporters from Toledo and Detroit TV stations that they visited him Wednesday in a Toledo jail. He's fighting extradition charges to Michigan on parental kidnapping charges.

WDIV-TV in Detroit reports that William and Roxanne Skelton say they believe their son. They also say he seems depressed.

Police have said the unemployed truck driver fabricated a story about leaving 9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner with an acquaintance.

Volunteers have been searching southern Michigan and northern Ohio since their mother reported them missing on Nov. 26.
http://www.recordpub.com/news/article/4945073

http://www.indianasnewscenter.com/news/local/Grandparents-Dad-Says-Three-Missing-Michigan-Boys-are-Safe-111592774.html
Grandparents: Dad Says Three Missing Michigan Boys Are SafeBy Nicole Hahn

December 9, 2010
 
Toledo, Ohio (WTVG-Toledo) - The grandparents of the three missing boys from Morenci went to the Lucas County jail to visit their son Wednesday. John Skelton remains locked up and charged with parental kidnapping.

After their meeting with John, William and Roxanne Skelton believe 100% that their grandsons are still alive. However, their son did not reveal where the boys are. Roxanne says, "Those children are safe. And he wouldn't tell me where
Roxanne and William Skelton, who live in Florida, met with their son at the Lucas County jail Wednesday afternoon for the first time since his arrest. The video conference lasted a half hour. John's dad says when he first saw his son on the screen, he said he looked like he's been through combat and told him, "Son, this is one hell of a way to get Morenci on the map. Then I sat back and listened to him. No, he didn't do that stuff."

The Skeltons would not discuss details of what John Skelton said. His parents simply say he did what he had to do to get Andrew, Alexander, and Tanner away from their mother. "He took those boys out of harm's way and I respect my son. He loves his children and I respect my son for doing just that," says Roxanne.

William has nothing but criticism for the way police are handling the investigation. "I believe there are faulty things in the system aren't helping both sides equally. The system wants to go to one thing --dead bodies --and doesn't want to look at the other side of the story. Very, very biased."

Skelton's parents say they believe their son is depressed, but not suicidal.

John Skelton's aunt is echoing those statements. Sandra Arens says she also believes John is protecting the boys from their mother. And she questioned why the public hasn't seen much of Tanya Skelton in the days after the boys disappeared.
I don't understand why she didn't come out and say anything, I want my kids back. Why she wasn't at any of the candlelight vigils and I don't understand that why when he went to call her that Friday night after Thanksgiving and into Saturday that she refused his calls," says Arens.

Arens says if her husband would have taken her kids, she would have been on the phone with him right away.

Meantime, the public search has been called off, but local authorities are still looking for help in the case. If you have information that could help police find the boys, call 517-458-7104. Investigators have also posted a $10,000 reward.

Video at link.

http://www.indianasnewscenter.com/news/local/Grandparents-Dad-Says-Three-Missing-Michigan-Boys-are-Safe-111592774.html

Grandparents: Dad Says Three Missing Michigan Boys Are SafeBy Nicole Hahn
December 9, 2010

i just find that hard to believe, who in their right mind would
aid in a kidnapping, and obstruct justice, and risk 15-25 yr in jail

BBM    ::MonkeyEek::   Um, then he "tried" to commit suicide because........why?

Nana, I agree . . . he is trying for an insanity plea . . . I hope I am wrong!

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=AATS

Thank you, Sister.  I've added the Skelton Brothers to the Scared Monkeys Gratefulness Candles Forum:

http://scaredmonkeys.net/index.php?topic=9127.msg1275681#msg1275681
   Andrew, Alexander & Tanner Skelton, Missing Since 11/26/10

 ::MonkeyAngel:: ::MonkeyAngel:: ::MonkeyAngel::

http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2010/12/morenci_pastor_donna_galloway.html
Morenci Pastor Donna Galloway holds out hope for Skelton brothers: 'Bring the boys home'
Published: Friday, December 10, 2010, 10:40 AM     Updated: Friday, December 10, 2010, 10:41 AM
Donna Galloway, pastor of the Morenci United Methodist Church, maintains hope that three young brothers missing since Thanksgiving will return to her community and congregation, and says it is time for their father to reveal their location.

"They are very friendly, happy, imaginative creative little boys, and we love having them around," Galloway told host Paul W. Smith this morning on WJR-AM 760.  "They are a bright spot."

John Skelton, who remains jailed in Ohio and is fighting extradition to Michigan, reportedly told his parents this week that his sons are safe at an undisclosed location. Roxanne and William Skelton said he told them he is protecting the boys from their mother, Tanya Skelton, a registered sex offender who he claims had been sexually abusing them.
But Galloway, who also had a chance to visit John Skelton in jail, said she is angry with the grandparent's for not demanding the boys' location if they, in fact, believed his story.

Listen to Galloway:  (at link)
"The entire world knows now what his fears and his concerns are, so bring the boys home," she said. "Tanner, Andrew and Alexander should not have to endure anything else. ...There's no danger to them now. There was never any danger to them in the beginning.  Tanya would never harm her boys in any way, shape or form."

Tanya Skelton reported the boys missing on Nov. 26 after their father failed to return them from a court-ordered visitation at his home in Morenci.  Police have said John Skelton, charged with parental kidnapping, lied to investigators when he said he gave the boys to a female acquaintance to hand over to their mother before he tried to commit suicide.

Volunteers and authorities have searched fields, rivers, ditches and vacant buildings in both southern Michigan and northern Ohio since the boys disappeared, a process that has consumed Morenci, a town of about 2,000 residents 75 miles southwest of Detroit.

Investigators have said they don't expect a positive outcome to the case, but Galloway said she remains optimistic.

"There is always hope," she said.  "That is who I am. Because of my beliefs there is always hope."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Sorry Pastor, the day when you "know" someone will not hurt someone else . . . well, you just don't.
An attorney from my area, well-respected, etc etc was going to be charged with receiving porn.  He killed himself.  I would never have thought he was into porn, never any public actions or attitudes to even hint at such a thing . . . and then kill himself.  Never would have guessed in a thousand years.  Just proves, we simply don't know.

http://www.lenconnect.com/news/x1921996915/Skelton-scheduled-for-extradition-hearing

Skelton scheduled for extradition hearing
By Staff reports
Daily Telegram
Posted Dec 11, 2010 @ 01:40 PM

TOLEDO, Ohio — The father of three missing Morenci boys is scheduled for an extradition hearing Tuesday in Lucas County.
John Skelton’s hearing is set for 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 14. He is being held on $3 million bond on parental kidnapping charges in connection with the disappearance of his three sons, Andrew, Alexander and Tanner.

When a person charged with a crime in one state is arrested in another, extradition is the process by which the suspect is returned to the state where the charges were issued. The process required a formal request from Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm to Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland.

Court records indicate the paperwork went through Friday.

Thank you for the update cw618.
Muffy, can you put this link in their candle thread please?  Thank you!

Done.  MB
Thank you, Sister.  I've added the Skelton Brothers to the Scared Monkeys Gratefulness Candles Forum:

http://scaredmonkeys.net/index.php?topic=9127.msg1275681#msg1275681
   Andrew, Alexander & Tanner Skelton, Missing Since 11/26/10

 ::MonkeyAngel:: ::MonkeyAngel:: ::MonkeyAngel::

http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2010/12/police_report_john_skelton_thr.html

Police report: John Skelton tried to take kids to Florida without mom's consent in September
Published: Monday, December 13, 2010, 3:42 PM     Updated: Monday, December 13, 2010, 3:57 PM
Jonathan Oosting | MLive.com Jonathan Oosting | MLive.com

More than one month before his three children disappeared, 39-year-old John Skelton signed them out of school and threatened to move them to Florida without their mother's consent, according to a police report obtained by Detroit-area NBC affiliate WDIV.

Morenci officer Larry Weeks said in the report that the boys' mother, Tanya Skelton, called on Sept. 13 to complain her husband had taken the children and may be trying to leave the state.

    "I made contact with (name redacted) at the Elementary School. She is the (redacted) (redacted) advised that John Skelton had come in and signed the children out for what he called a vacation to Florida.  However, while he was doing so implied that the children may not be returning and that the school may need to forward the children's records.  John signed out their three sons, Andrew, Alexander and Tanner and left."

Weeks said in the report he reached John Skelton by telephone, advised him that he could be charged with parental kidnapping if he left the state and set up a meeting at Morenci City Hall.  Skelton failed to arrive at the agreed-upon time, but Weeks said he eventually met with both parents and was able to resolve the situation without making any arrests.

Authorities last month charged Skelton with parental kidnapping in the disappearance of his children, who were last seen on Thanksgiving.  He remains jailed in Ohio but faced as extradition hearing on Tuesday that could force his return to Michigan.

Tanya Skelton reported the kids missing after their father failed to return them from a court-ordered visitation. Police have said John Skelton lied to investigators when he said he gave the boys to a female acquaintance to hand over to their mother before he tried to commit suicide.

Investigators have said they don't expect a positive outcome to the case.

Missing boys' dad ends fight over return to Mich.
http://www.thetimesherald.com/article/20101214/NEWS05/101214008/1002/NEWS01/Missing+boys++dad+ends+fight+over+return+to+Mich.+

The father of three boys missing since Thanksgiving has ended his fight against going back to Michigan from Ohio to face parental kidnapping charges.


John Skelton waived extradition at a hearing Tuesday morning in Toledo, and the court accepted. Lucas County assistant prosecutor Jeff Lingo says the Morenci, Mich., police chief intends to take Skelton back to his hometown later in the day.


Chief Larry Weeks and another officer were in the court.


Skelton sat in a wheelchair wearing a brown jail jumpsuit. He was wheeled out of court at the conclusion of the hearing.

i think the $30 million bond, is a typo

Michigan dad of 3 missing sons due in court
ADRIAN, Mich. — A 39-year-old Michigan father who faces kidnapping charges in connection with his three missing sons is due in court.

John Skelton of Morenci is scheduled to be arraigned Wednesday in Lenawee County, one day after waiving his right to an extradition hearing in Ohio and being driven back to Michigan. He remains held on a $30 million bond.

The unemployed truck driver is charged with parental kidnapping in the disappearance of 9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner Skelton.

The boys were last seen on Thanksgiving in their father's backyard in Morenci, about 70 miles southwest of Detroit. Volunteers have searched southern Michigan and northern Ohio.

Police say John Skelton made up a story about giving the boys to a female acquaintance.

___

December 15, 2010 07:07 AM EST

http://www.ajc.com/news/nation-world/michigan-dad-of-3-777477.html

I don't think so - that was what was reported here by the local stations and what is being reported in every story. I think it is a way to make sure he does not get out and disappear - he may not have any money but his family may.

http://www.foxtoledo.com/dpp/news/local/toledo-skelton-to-be-arraigned-in-michigan
Skelton's bond upped to $30M
Waives extradition, arraigned in Lenawee Co Wed
Updated: Wednesday, 15 Dec 2010, 2:51 PM EST
Published : Tuesday, 14 Dec 2010, 10:23 AM EST

TOLEDO, Ohio (WUPW) -  John Skelton's bond was set Tuesday in Lenawee County District Court at $30 million - $10 million for each count of parental kidnapping.

 Earlier in the day, the 39-year-old father of the missing Morenci, Mich., brothers, appeared in Lucas County Common Pleas Court in Toledo, Ohio, for a second extradition hearing.

Skelton waived extradition at that time, making it possible for Michigan authorities to take him back to Lenawee County to face charges of parental kidnapping.

After the hearing, Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks and an unidentified Morenci police officer transferred Skelton from Toledo to the Lenawee County jail in Adrian.

"I am not surprised," said Jeff Lingo, Lucas County prosecutor. "We had the governor's warrant. It was actually received last Friday (Dec. 10). It was filed and we were ready to process. We had the chief here to testify, so he was going back in my opinion one way or the other."

Skelton will be arraigned in Lenawee County District Court in Adrian, at 1 p.m., on Wednesday.

i see it now $10mill each child/count

http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2010/12/john_skelton_organization_has.html

John Skelton claims "organization" has boys. 

I have to say that I almost believe this one. This guy had a wife that was a RSO and knew he was going to have to give them to her. It is almost plausible to me that he passed them off to an underground protection group. But then again, he may just be saying it. Who knows.

Obvious to me from the article, he has some real issues with his soon-to-be ex.

BLOCKED WEBSITE

This is ridiculous.  I've been disgusted with the lack of pressure being put on this man.

Do you really marry and have children with a woman who is an RSO one day, then determine that its wrong the next day??  I dont think so.  I think he is using whatever excuse he can and obviously her being an RSO was his best bet at getting full custody - or her attention.

I just dont know what to believe with this one.

http://www.koco.com/r-video/26181878/detail.html
Missing Boys' Mom Thinks They're Alive
POSTED: 7:38 am CST December 18, 2010
UPDATED: 7:38 am CST December 18, 2010
The mother of three missing boys in Michigan is hoping for a Christmas miracle this holiday. Tanya Skelton says she believes her sons are alive -- and has bought gifts to be ready for their return.

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101220/NEWS16/12200310
Article published December 20, 2010
Prayers, hymns offered as hope hangs on for return of 3 boys
(http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?Site=TO&Date=20101220&Category=NEWS16&ArtNo=12200310&Ref=AR&MaxW=200)
Ronda McCoy, bundled against the cold, holds a candle during a prayer vigil for the three missing Morenci boys. She was among the handful of people who attended the event at the Old Amtrak Village.
( THE BLADE/AMY E. VOIGT )
Zoom | Photo Reprints
By JIM SIELICKI
BLADE STAFF WRITE
A handful of Toledoans shivered, sang Christmas hymns, and prayed for three missing Morenci brothers at a candlelight vigil Sunday night at a makeshift shrine erected at Old Amtrak Village in South Toledo.
Larry Ocheske, a one-man community improvement motivator for the Old South End neighborhood near the Amtrak station, said he organized the vigil to show people in the Michigan community "that we care. To me, they're just a part of this city."
The Skelton bothers, Andrew, 9, Alexander, 7, and Tanner Skelton, 5, have been missing since Thanksgiving Day.
Their father, John Skelton, had told police he handed them off to a woman and later, after he was charged with parental kidnapping/custodial interference, changed his story to say he gave them to an organization, which he refused to identify.
Police in Morenci discounted the initial story and have not been able to confirm the second account.
n an appearance in Lenawee County Circuit Court Friday, Mr. Skelton told a judge he gave his sons to an "organization."
Mr. Skelton has refused to divulge the organization's name or the boys's whereabouts.
During the vigil the Rev. Dennis Lauman prayed for the boys and their parents.
"We come together because we had a tragedy in our community," prayed Pastor Lauman, a retired minister who is substituting at St. John's Lutheran Church in the Old South End.
"We pray for the mother because she doesn't know where [her sons] are," he said to the six adults and three children gathered at the memorial where Logan Street and Emerald Avenue meet.
The memorial included an Amish buggy Mr. Ocheske had refurbished. Propped against its back was a large cross with gold decoration. A fence that blocks access to an abandoned iron bridge over the railroad tracks was decorated with pictures of the missing boys.
A wreath at the center of the memorial included pictures of the brothers, flanked by small Christmas trees.
During the 10-minute service in 20-degree weather, Pastor Lauman asked for prayers to be said for the boy's father, "because he knows where the boys are, but he's not telling anyone."
Pastor Lauman said he accepted Mr. Ocheske's invitation to attend the vigil to show unity with the community.
After the prayers and a recitation of the boys' names, a small music player sounded Christmas hymns.
Vigil participants joined in softly singing "Away in a Manger" to the accompaniment of steel train wheels screeching behind them as an eastbound freight train slowly approached the Amtrak station in the dark.
The three brothers were last seen in the backyard of Mr. Skelton's home and were reported missing by their mother, Tanya Skelton, the day after Thanksgiving.
During that time Mr. Skelton was taken to a Wauseon hospital to get treatment for an ankle injury suffered in an apparent suicide attempt.
He was later transferred to Mercy St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo, then held in the Lucas County jail before he was extradited to Morenci to face kidnapping charges.
Mr. Skelton, an unemployed truck driver, was arrested Nov. 30 after he was released from the hospital. On Wednesday, he waived a detention hearing and was returned to Michigan.
The missing persons report sparked a massive search of parts of Lenawee County and adjacent Fulton and Williams counties in Ohio, drawing volunteers from Toledo, northwest Ohio, and Michigan.
Susan Hassenzahk, who participated, wrapped in blankets as she sat in her wheelchair, said finding the missing boys would be a fitting gift for their mother and the Morenci community.
"It will be a Christmas miracle if they find the boys," Ms. Hassenzahk said.
Contact: Jim Sielicki at: jsielicki@theblade.com or 419-724-6050

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=AATS

http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/26212352/detail.html
Video
Tanya Skelton Speaks About Missing Sons
Tanya Skelton: 'For Him To Accuse Me Hurts'
December 21, 2010

DETROIT -- Tanya Skelton spoke with Local 4 on Tuesday about her three missing sons and their father, John Skelton.

She addressed the claims John made about her abusing the children.
"For him to accuse me hurts," Tanya said.

She also talked about the time she spent in prison.

"I am a different person now," Tanya said. "My children get time outs, they don't even get spanked."

Last week, Tanya broke her silence since her sons went missing on Thanksgiving day. Sources said she had been encouraged by police to stay quiet while they interrogated her soon-to-be ex-husband John Skelton on the whereabouts of their boys.

Tanya had a message for her estranged husband:

“Everyone, not just me, not just my family, but everyone has hurt enough. Just tell us where the boys are,” Tanya said

http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/article/20101224/NEWS01/12240317/Mother-of-missing-Morenci-boys-holds-out-hope-for-their-safe-return
Mother of missing Morenci boys holds out hope for their safe return
She says their dad would not hurt his kids
December 24, 2010

MORENCI - At Grandma and Grandpa's house, under a Christmas tree adorned with jingle bells from church, handmade crosses and three little angels, sit affectionately wrapped gifts.
To Andrew. To Alexander. To Tanner.

The three Skelton brothers from Morenci, ages 9, 7 and 5, respectively, have been missing for nearly a month. Their father, John Skelton, 39, is in jail, charged with parental kidnapping in their disappearance. Their mother spends her evenings reading Bible passages and praying.
Clinging to faith

Tanya Skelton, 44, told the Free Press that the safe return of her sons would be the greatest gift. Amid caution earlier this month from police that the outcome might be dire and court testimony by her husband that he placed the boys with an organization he won't name, Tanya Skelton said she has faith her sons are alive.

She finds herself turning to Bible passages with messages of hope and believes it is a sign from God.

"I feel in my heart they are alive," she said, "and Him directing us to the word 'hope' tells me that we're not to give up hope."

Tanya Skelton says she hasn't spoken with her estranged husband, John Skelton, since their three boys were reported missing from his Morenci home the Friday after Thanksgiving.

But she told the Free Press on Wednesday that she has been in regular contact with Morenci police and frequently talks to FBI investigators. She said police have received hundreds of tips from around the country about the boys, including at least two alleged sightings in northwest Ohio in the days after Thanksgiving.

Tanya Skelton said police have had her review pictures from surveillance video from Walmart and Meijer stores, whose locations she didn't know, but she didn't see her kids.
Boys know to call 911

Skelton prays for her boys' safe return and emphasized that they know how to call 911 - they once called in a false alarm.

They were at their father's home watching "Kung Fu Panda" when he went upstairs to use the telephone. He was talking to her. One of them had noticed their dad was gone, according to a police report, and called 911 because. Ironically, the boys had thought their father was missing.
The boys went missing from their father's home the day after Thanksgiving.
Skelton said her sons had been with John Skelton beginning at 3 p.m. Wednesday and were to be brought back to her by 3 p.m. Friday. But she called John Skelton to see whether they could come home early.

Tanya Skelton said he told her initially that he and the boys were not at the house and wouldn't be back until the afternoon.

Later that day, she spoke with him again. That's when, she said, John Skelton told her that he was on his way to the hospital because he was hurt and the boys were with "my friend Joann." But Tanya Skelton said he didn't have a phone number for Joann, and she later discovered he had attempted suicide by trying to hang himself in the basement.
Lots of history

The couple married eight years ago. Skelton said she didn't realize they were having problems until her husband took the children out of school one day in September and left with Andrew and Alexander for Florida.

She said he had told her he wanted to move to Florida, but she was hesitant because she is a registered sex offender in Michigan. Court records show she had sexual relations with a 14-year-old in 1998.

After that, she eventually sought a divorce.

Through it all, however, Tanya Skelton says she doesn't believe her estranged husband would harm their sons.

"The John I know," she said, "would not hurt his children."

Though the boys still are missing, Christmas won't be a solemn event. Skelton said her sisters and their children will come by to play games and eat junk food with her.

"I hope for a Christmas miracle," she said, "but there's a part of me that's not letting myself get set on that Christmas miracle."

Skelton waives preliminary hearing, case to proceed to trial

http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/skelton-waives-preliminary-hearing,-case-to-proceed-to-trial

I can't open the link.........

Skelton waives preliminary hearing, case to proceed to trial

(http://media2.wxyz.com//photo/2010/12/14/Skelton_waives_extradi6012b620-6343-4d83-91b1-14e39f017dca0004_20101214105622_320_240.JPG)

Photographer: WXYZ

Posted: 1:48 PM
Last Updated: 3 hours and 16 minutes ago

ADRIAN, Mich. (WXYZ) - The father of three missing Morenci boys has waived a preliminary examination and will be arraigned on parental kidnapping charges January 5.

John Skelton waived his hearing Monday morning. It had been set for Tuesday. Preliminary examinations are used to determine if there is enough evidence for a case to proceed to trial. By waiving the hearing Skelton ensures that the case will go right to trial.

Skelton is charged in the disappearance of his three young sons. Alexander, Andrew and Tanner Skelton have been missing since Thanksgiving. The last confirmed sighting of the boys was in John Skelton's backyard.

At the time of their disappearance, Skelton told investigators that he gave the boys to a woman named JoAnn Taylor and that they were in her custody. He has since said the boys were in the custody of an "organization." However, police have said that they don't believe Taylor exists and Skelton has declined to identify any specific organization.

Skelton has been in police custody since late November when officials were notified about the missing boys. At the time he said he tried to commit suicide after turning the boys over to Taylor. After being released from an Ohio hospital he was held in the Lucas County jail until he waived extradition to Michigan. He is currently being held in the Lenawee County jail on $30 million bond.

The disappearance of the boys triggered a massive search effort along the Michigan-Ohio border. However, no trace of them has been found and official search activities have been suspended. If you have any information about the boys' location you’re asked to call 517-458-7104. A $10,000 reward has been offered in the case.

http://www.lenconnect.com/news/x192072433/State-law-to-be-followed-on-release-of-Skelton-documents
State law to be followed on release of Skelton documents
December 29, 2010

ADRIAN, Mich. —

Attorneys representing a Detroit television station and the Lenawee County District Court agreed Tuesday to follow state law in the release of any documents pertaining to a search of the home of the father of three missing Morenci boys.

WDIV sued the district court to gain access to search warrant documents related to the search of John Russell Skelton’s home on East Congress Street in Morenci. Skelton’s sons, Andrew, 9, Alexander, 7, and Tanner, 5, were last seen there on Thanksgiving.

Ashley Krueger of the Plymouth law firm Bernardi, Ronayne & Glusac told Lenawee County Circuit Judge Margaret M.S. Noe that WDIV “would like the tabulation (of items removed from Skelton’s home) to be turned over promptly.”

State law suppresses search warrant affidavits for 56 days after the warrants are executed. After that, they may be sealed if a judge agrees to a prosecutor’s request.

“We believe the statues are unclear,” Krueger said. She asked about the possibility of a time limit for when the search warrant tabulation would be released.

Lenawee County Prosecutor Jonathan Poer, who along with Adrian attorney Adrienne Iddings represented district court, said the wording “as permitted by statute” in the order covers any time limits.

Noe said for the court to go beyond the statute would be an “interpretation” of the law. She said WDIV could come back before the court if needed later.

The order stipulates that there are no orders on file to seal any documents pertaining to the Skelton case, there are no court records on file pertaining to the search warrants and that the documents will be made available according to the law.

The attorneys first met with Noe in her chambers then met with District Judge James E. Sheridan before finalizing the order in Noe’s courtroom.

The Skelton case has been before Sheridan.

Skelton, 39, is charged with three counts of parental kidnapping. He testified in a hearing on the custody order between him and his estranged wife, Tanya Skelton of Morenci, that he gave the boys to an “organization,” but has declined to name it.

Skelton waived a preliminary examination of the kidnapping charges Monday and was bound over to Lenawee County Circuit Court for arraignment and a possible trial.

Father of missing Mich. boys waives arraignment
Courtesy of • Detroit Free Press • January 5, 2011

DETROIT — The father of three missing Michigan brothers waived his right to an arraignment in Lenawee County Circuit Court on charges stemming from their disappearance.

John Skelton, 39, who is facing parental kidnapping charges, did not appear in court Wednesday. He will be back in court Feb. 9 for a pretrial hearing.

Skelton is being held on $30 million bond.

His sons - Andrew, Alexander and Tanner, ages 9, 7 and 5 - have been missing since Thanksgiving, when the two oldest were lasts seen in the backyard of Skelton's Morenci, Mich., home.

Skelton told police he gave his sons to an acquaintance before he attempted suicide, but police have said they have found no evidence the woman he described exists. Skelton has also claimed he gave his sons to an organization, which he has not named.

Skelton's lawyer, John Glaser, would not comment Wednesday.

http://www.mycentraljersey.com/article/20110105/NATIONWORLD/101050325/Father-of-missing-Mich-boys-waives-arraignment

http://www.foxtoledo.com/dpp/news/local/Skelton-pleads-not-guilty-to-kidnapping
Skelton pleads not guilty to kidnapping
January 5, 2011

ADRIAN, Mich. (WUPW) - Though still locked up in a Lenawee County jail cell, a not guilty plea was entered on John Skelton's behalf on three parental kidnapping charges during a session Wednesday in Lenawee County Circuit Court.

He will head for a pre-trial hearing on Feb. 9.

The 39-year-old unemployed long-haul truck driver from Morenci, Mich., has another court date in county circuit court later in January on a contempt of court charge in his divorce case with Tanya Skelton.

In December he failed to obey a court order in revealing who he handed his three sons - Andrew, Tanner and Alexander Skelton - to back on Nov. 25, Thanksgiving Day.

The young brothers have not been seen since.

Skelton said he gave the boys to an organization but would not divulge which organization it is or where the group is located.

Here's an article with a little more detail:
http://www.lenconnect.com/news/x2135348167/John-Skelton-pleads-not-guilty-on-kidnapping-charges-avoids-court-appearance
John Skelton pleads not guilty to kidnapping charges, avoids court appearance
January 5, 2011

ADRIAN, Mich. —

John Russell Skelton remained out of sight in a Lenawee County Jail cell Wednesday while a not guilty plea in his parental kidnapping case was entered for him in Lenawee County Circuit Court.

The Morenci father of three boys missing since Thanksgiving was scheduled for a hearing on Feb. 9 before Judge Margaret M.S. Noe in the criminal case. Public defender John Glaser filed a written waiver of arraignment with a not guilty plea, avoiding an appearance in court that would likely have drawn a crowd of television cameras and news photographers.

Skelton, 39, faces another date with Noe this month on a contempt of court charge in his divorce case for failing to obey her order giving custody of the children to their mother, Tanya Skelton.

During a court appearance on Dec. 15, Skelton told Noe he could not obey her custody order because he turned over his sons, Andrew, 9, Alexander, 7, and Tanner, 5, to an “organization” he refused to name. He said a woman came to his home in a van on Thanksgiving Day and drove away with the boys.

The couple are in the process of divorcing.

A hearing on the contempt charge is scheduled for Jan. 28. Noe warned Skelton last month there is no limit to the length of time she can keep him in jail for refusing to obey her custody order. The criminal parental kidnapping charges carry a maximum sentence of one year and one day.

Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks discounted Skelton’s claim of giving his sons to an organization, saying last month he still does not expect the case to have a “positive outcome.”

Police have been sorting through hundreds of tips about the possible whereabouts of the boys.

http://www.myfoxdetroit.com/dpp/news/local/fox-2-speaks-to-mother-of-missing-morenci-boys-01072011
video
Missing Morenci Boys' Aunt Calls John Skelton Coward
January 7, 2011

MORENCI, Mich. (WJBK) - 19-year-old Courtney Derby, like her mother, Tanya Skelton, wishes she knew what happened to Andrew, Alexander and Tanner.

The boys' sister spoke only with FOX 2.

"The I love yous and the screaming coming out the door. You forgot to give me a kiss. You forgot to hug me. Even snow, rain … the middle one and the youngest always running out the door. No shoes on, mom's yelling get inside, you're going to get sick. They didn't care. They wanted a kiss from their sister. I mean, that's what I miss," said Derby.

The whole family missed Christmas with the boys. It is on hold for now. Just ask the boys' aunt, Tennille, who said there are gifts that will not be unwrapped until they come home.

She had the following to say to John Skelton, the boys' father.

"Quit being a coward because no man would have done what he has done. Don't be a coward. Tell someone," said Tennille McCain.

The boys' mother said she and John never even spanked the boys, so she does not believe he has it in him to hurt them.

She has heard of the sightings, people in Ohio saying they saw all three of the boys. Her impression is that they may not all be together when they are out.

"Whoever has the children may only be taking them out one at a time because they know it's the three missing brothers, the three missing boys, pictures are distributed in threes," said Tanya Skelton. "Don't look at it as a group of three boys, but as them individual."

"I haven't changed my perception of it, but I'm just saying that I'm not willing to close the door on any hope that they're potentially out there," said Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks.

"Go anywhere, I mean just grab someone of the street. Tell them who you are. Tell them you want to come home to your family," Derby said.

Police Chief Weeks said he does continue to hold out hope that there is a chance that the boys still may be alive.

So far, they have received a thousand tips. If you have any information about these boys' whereabouts, you are asked to call police.

Muffy, thanks for the updates!   ::MonkeyKiss::

John Skelton did not plead forgiveness from his boys.

Janet

++++++

Hope, prayer fills Morenci
Search, Amber Alert continues
Updated: Monday, 29 Nov 2010, 11:44 PM EST
Published : Sunday, 28 Nov 2010, 11:25 PM EST

His Facebook page Wednesday contained the message: "I love my wife very much. May God and Tanya forgive me."

http://www.foxtoledo.com/dpp/news/local/morenci-mich-hope-prayer-fills-morenci

http://www.wilx.com/news/headlines/Skelton_Mother_Firing_Back_At_Critics_113189729.html
Skelton Mother Firing Back At Critics
The mother of three missing Morenci children still believes they are alive.
January 10, 2011

In the six weeks since her three boys disappeared, critics have called Tanya Skelton an "unfit mother".
Skelton defends herself by saying that the boys' father John didn't want the boys around her because of an inappropriate relationship she had with a 14-year-old back in 1998.
Even though the boys have not been found, Skelton still doesn't believe her husband put them in a situation where they could be hurt.
Despite the couple's bitter divorce, Tanya still calls John her "best friend".
Meanwhile, police in Morenci say they've received more than a thousand tips of sightings-- but none that have panned out.

http://radioamber.net/?p=4039
January 13, 2011

The three boys, 9 year old Andrew, 7 year old Alexander and 5 year old Tanner Skelton were reported missing on Nov. 26th 2010 from Morenci, Michigan after which a Amber Alert was issued. They were abducted by their father, John Skelton, who was found in neighboring Lucas County, Ohio. According to police John Skelton lied to investigators when he said he gave the boys to a female acquaintance to hand over to their mother before he tried to commit suicide. John Skelton waived extradition and remains incarcerated on a 3 million dollar bond.

Recently John Skelton’s parents, Roxanne and William Skelton, also the children’s grandparents, have said their son, John Skelton, has assured them the children are safe, and insists he is protecting them from their mother. He claims their mother, Tanya Skelton, has been sexually abusing them. Tanya Skelton is on the Michigan Sex Offender Registry for a 1998 conviction.

When asked if they knew where the kids were John Skelton’s parents stated he would not tell them nor did they want him to tell them. They went on to say that their son took the boys out of harm’s way and that they respect him.

Police are still following up on tips, but are not expecting a good outcome to the case. The mystery surrounding this case remains, where are the 3 missing Skelton boys. The answer lies with John Skelton, and thus far he isn’t telling.

http://www.wtol.com/Global/story.asp?S=13847520

Missing Morenci boys continue to generate tips, reports of sightings
Updated: Jan 14, 2011 7:14 PM EST

By Colleen Wells - bio | email
Posted by Nick Dutton - email

MORENCI, MI (WTOL) - It has been nearly two months since 9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner Skelton went missing.

The boys were last seen on Thanksgiving with their father John Skelton, who is behind bars on parental kidnapping charges.

Investigators say they still receive tips and reports of possible sightings, but that they have not been able to confirm if any are true.

In addition, police have not received any new information from the boys' father.

Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks continues to lead the investigation into the boys' disappearance and remembers the exact moment he heard they were missing.

"My initial thought was maybe they were just with a family member or a friend," said Weeks. "But as the things progressed Friday, to the point where we could not locate them, it became apparent something was amiss [and] something more significant happened."

Within hours of the boys' disappearance, hundreds of volunteers and dozens of law enforcement officials searched Morenci.

Chief Weeks says at one point 40 investigators were working the case and that more than 1,000 tips poured in. However, Weeks says tips have diminished.

Now, eight investigators from the Morenci Police Department, Michigan State Police and the FBI work the case and continue to follow leads.

"I expressed that fairly early on in the investigation, with my comments about not expecting a positive outcome. My feelings on that haven't changed," said Weeks. "It's been increasingly frustrating… [because] I feel like we've done everything we can do, up to this point… We haven't seen the results we want to see."

Weeks is regularly asked about the case, but says that bringing the boys home is really the only way to measure progress – and so far he has been unable to locate Andrew, Alexander and Tanner.

Copyright 2011 WTOL. All rights reserved.

http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/26527869/detail.html
Auction To Benefit Skelton Brothers Fund
January 18, 2011

MORENCI, Mich. -- An auction is planned to help boost the money in the reward fund aimed at helping bring home three missing Michigan brothers from Morenci.

The auction is planned for 6 p.m. on March 19 at Morenci Area High School. All funds raised will go to the Skelton Brothers Reward Fund.

The Skelton brothers -- Alexander, 9, Andrew, 7, and Tanner, 5, -- haven't been seen since Thanksgiving while they were in the care of their father, John.

They were reported missing the following day by their mother, Tanya Skelton, when their father didn't bring them home after an arranged visit.

Law enforcement and community volunteers have searched the both sides of the Michigan-Ohio state line for the boys.

At a previous court hearing, the 39-year-old father said he gave his sons to someone from an "organization" who visited his home on Thanksgiving.

Before that, he had told police that he had turned them over to a female acquaintance to be returned to Tanya Skelton.

Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks said then that he remained skeptical of the father's claims, adding, "We're not expecting a positive outcome."

During an earlier interview with Local 4, the boys' mother, Tanya Skelton, said her intuition still tells her "that my boys are alive and that they're with someone they know."

The community can donate items for the auction.

The high school is located at 700 East Coomer Street.

All monies remaining in the fund following the boy’s return will be allocated to the Morenci Elementary School, Morenci Education Foundation and/or the Wakefield Park to provide recreational and educational opportunities for area youth. There will be a committee to decide this disbursement.

The fund currently has more than $10,000 in it.

http://www.freep.com/article/20110122/NEWS06/101220381/1322/Search-warrant-suppressed-in-Morenci-case
Search warrant suppressed in Morenci kidnapping case
January 22, 2011

A district court judge has ordered the suppression of search warrant documents in the case against a Morenci man accused in the disappearance of his sons.

John Skelton is facing parental kidnapping charges in the disappearance of his sons -- Andrew, Alexander and Tanner, ages 9, 7 and 5, respectively -- who have been missing since Thanksgiving.

Authorities searched his home soon after the boys were reported missing.

Lenawee County Prosecutor Jonathan Poer said he submitted the motion asking the search warrant documents be suppressed because the investigation is ongoing. Judge James Sheridan of the 2A District Court signed the order.

According to the order, the documents will be "suppressed pending the conclusion of the investigation or until further order of the judge, or 180 days after the date of the suppression order, whichever comes first."

Skelton told police he gave his sons to an acquaintance before attempting suicide, but police have said they found no evidence the woman he described exists.

Skelton also has said he gave his sons to an organization, which he has not named.

The disappearance prompted residents of the small town near the Ohio border and many from Ohio to fan out in rural areas, searching for the boys.

The boys' mother, Tanya Skelton, has said she holds out hope that the children are alive.

http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20460139,00.html
Mother of Three Missing Michigan Boys Holds Hope They're Alive
January 24, 2011

(http://img2.timeinc.net/people/i/2011/news/110131/morenci-brothers-320.jpg)
Tanner, 5, Andrew, 9, and Alexander Skelton, 7
Courtesy Tanya Skelton

Nearly two months after three Morenci, Mich., brothers disappeared, the children's mother holds hope they'll be found safe.

"In my heart, I feel that they are still alive, and I just am waiting for the right clue or tip to come in, or for their father to finally decide to tell who he gave the children to," Tanya Skelton, 44, says in an interview with PEOPLE.

The boys' dad, John Skelton, 39, told police several accounts about what he did with 5-year-old Tanner, 7-year-old Alexander and 9-year-old Andrew the day after Thanksgiving.

He said he gave them to a pastor's wife named Joann Taylor because he was going to commit suicide. Then he said he gave them to an "organization."

Then he got a lawyer and stopped talking.

After investigating various leads, Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks on Nov. 30 announced that police "do not expect a positive outcome here." More than a month later, Weeks tells PEOPLE his expectation "remains the same, and we're certainly skeptical about any stories or information that (the father) puts out there."
Mother Traumatized
Tanya says that after the boys disappeared that "my blood pressure went through the roof" and she spent two days sedated in the hospital.
"When I finally came back to the world, it wasn't with thoughts that they were gone but that they are alive and I need to find them," she says.

But she clings the belief her estranged husband didn't harm her children. She says the John Skelton she lived with for 10 years would cook, play games and wrestle with his kids the second he came home from his truck driving job, and sometimes he'd bring one or two of his sons on a delivery.

She adds Skelton is a nonviolent man who doesn't even like to argue. He never so much as hit the boys, she says, and she can't imagine he'd do worse.

"If I'd want an argument, he'd say calmly, 'We're done,' and then we'd work things out," she says.

She thinks that Skelton isn't talking because he's protecting whomever has the boys; that person, she adds, is being careful not to let the boys be seen together because police are looking for three brothers.

"They're going to bring them out one at a time," she says.

Skelton is in custody on charges of kidnapping and of contempt of court for withholding information on the boys' whereabouts. He could get up to three years on the kidnapping, and can be held indefinitely on the latter charge.

His attorney, John Glaser, says his client doesn't have any comment for the media.
Odd Behavior
Tanya Skelton says John started acting strangely last September, after he took the boys out of school for a trip to Florida, saying he hoped to relocate there. She says little Tanner hid behind her as she tried to stop Skelton from leaving, and she had to go to court in Florida to compel him to return to Michigan with Alexander and Andrew.

She says she then filed for divorce only to secure primary custody and block John from moving the boys out of the area, and that she then went into counseling with him with hopes of keeping the family together.

"I wanted it to work," she says. "I wanted that happy family of five again."

Tanya says she agreed to let John have the boys for Thanksgiving never imagining they wouldn't be returned.

"The deeper and longer it goes," she says, her voice breaking, "the more I realize this isn't the man I fell in love with."

"I should be tucking my boys into bed and reading them stories, and not lying awake at night thinking about what happened," she says. "It's so hard that we're coming up on two months and nobody is coming forward. It's hard – and it hurts."

http://www.lenconnect.com/news/x1235859010/Skelton-due-back-in-court-Friday
Skelton due back in court Friday
January 25, 2011

ADRIAN, Mich. —

The Morenci man jailed on charges of failing to return his three sons to their mother after a Thanks­giving visit is headed back to court on Friday where a judge will ask again for their return.

John Russell Skelton, 39, is to appear before Lenawee County Circuit Judge Margaret M.S. Noe for a contempt of court hearing for violating her order giving custody of the boys to Tanya Skelton. The hearing was set on Dec. 17 when Skelton was brought to court to answer a custody violation complaint.

At that time Skelton told the court he was unable to comply because he did not know where they were. He told Noe he had turned over Andrew, 9, Alexander, 7, and Tanner, 5, to someone from an “organization.” He said that person left his Morenci home with the boys on Thanksgiving.

He refused to identify the organization.

Noe warned Skelton he could be held in jail indefinitely if found guilty of contempt in violating the court’s custody order.

Skelton faces up to a one-year prison term if convicted of felony custodial kidnapping charges that he faces in a separate criminal prosecution. He pleaded not guilty to those charges by written waiver of arraignment on Jan. 5. A hearing in the criminal case is scheduled for Feb. 9 before Noe.

No developments in the investigation have been announced by Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks since volunteers searched the Morenci area and in several Ohio communities near Morenci.

Weeks has said he does not expect a “positive” outcome of the case.

A Detroit television station went to court last month, seeking access to documents involving a police search of Skelton’s home after Thanksgiving.

At a hearing on Dec. 28 before Noe, attorneys for WDIV and Lenawee County District Court agreed to follow state law in regard to the search warrant documents. Search warrant affidavits are sealed for 56 days after a warrant is executed, and state law allows documents to be ordered sealed after that if requested by a prosecutor.

District Judge James E. Sheridan signed a suppression order for search warrant documents in the Skelton investigation on Jan. 6.

The documents were ordered sealed “to protect the ongoing investigation and to protect the privacy of the victims ... pending the conclusion of said investigation or until further order of this honorable court.”

http://www.wzzm13.com/news/news_story.aspx?storyid=151162&catid=14

Father says he can't turn over missing Morenci, Mich. boys
 Bob Brenzing

    * Updated:1/28/2011 11:00:18 AM - Posted: 1/28/2011 10:57:49 AM

ADRIAN, Mich. (AP) -- The father of three Michigan boys missing since Thanksgiving says he's unable to turn over the children to their mother.

John Skelton appeared Friday for a brief court hearing as part of his divorce case. The judge asked him whether he was prepared to give the children to their mother, and he answered: "I can't."

A pre-trial hearing is March 18.

He "can't"?   ::MonkeyNoNo::   

Please light a candle for the safe return of these boys.

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=AATS

Local news just reported that there is going to be a news conference tomorrow....the Police Chief will discuss  "a shift in the focus of the investigation and the status of the search"

They did not annouce a time.

http://toledoblade.com/article/20110131/NEWS16/110139953

Investigators, family to give update on missing Morenci brothers


(http://i824.photobucket.com/albums/zz170/Mom_Sho/Smileys/scissors_ani.gif)

Chief Weeks will discuss the case and “shift in the investigative focus” at 4 p.m. Tuesday in the Morenci Fire Department, 249 West Main St., a press release said.

Thank you for the updates, Leroy and Gizzie.  Prayers for  Alexander, Andrew and Tanner.

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/02/01/authorities-announce-update-search-missing-michigan-boys/

Authorities Call Search for Missing Michigan Boys a 'Homicide Investigation'

Published February 01, 2011

| FoxNews.com

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/02/01/authorities-announce-update-search-missing-michigan-boys/#ixzz1CkDDOwsd

Michigan authorities said that they are treating the search for three boys who were missing since November as a homicide. The boys' father is the primary suspect.

Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks discuss efforts to locate the boys: 9-year-old Andrew Skelton, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner.

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/02/01/authorities-announce-update-search-missing-michigan-boys/#ixzz1CkDN3N2i
((snipped))

I didn't want to hear that. Although I think we are knew from the beginning that the Andrew, Alexander and Tanner weren't with us any longer. Prayers for the family and my they find them soon.

Thank you every one for the up dates.

Such a sad case, and one with an obvious outcome from the beginning. Another coward who cannot control his own personal life and takes the life of his flesh and blood. From his writing that came out at the beginning of them being missing, I feel these boys are inside a container of some kind. A silo, a storm cellar, a large feed container, a well. He gave all the clues in his terrible writings. It will be some poor soul, innocent except for the fact that he/she will be the one to discover them and their own life to be changed forever. Rest well sons. That which has not been seen in the dark will be brought out in the sunlight. Then maybe their sorry excuse for a father will burn in hell.

http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2011/02/with_video_john_skelton_talks.html
With video: John Skelton talks from jail, says he 'did not hurt the babies'
Published: Thursday, February 03, 2011, 7:23 AM     Updated: Thursday, February 03, 2011, 7:30 AM
The jailed father of three missing Michigan boys told a Detroit television station that he has not harmed his young sons and does not know where they are located.

John Skelton has told authorities that he gave 9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner to a group called United Foster Outreach and another called Underground Sanctuaries. Police have said they cannot locate those groups.
<snipped>
Video at link

I've already used all the candles I can today. But I will do it as soon as it allows me tomorrow.  ::MonkeyAngel::

ISSUES WITH JANE VELEZ-MITCHELL

Will Dad be Charged with Murder of Three?
Aired February 4, 2011 - 19:00:00   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

JANE VELEZ-MITCHELL, HOST (voice-over): Tonight, a father accused of kidnapping his three adorable little boys speaks to the media for the very first time. Cops believe the missing kids were murdered. But this dad claims his kids aren`t dead; they`re safe and in a secret location. You will hear his jaw-dropping claims in a chilling jailhouse interview.

snip...

VELEZ-MITCHELL: Tonight, breaking news as the Michigan father accused of kidnapping his three precious sons speaks out from behind bars. Cops now believe 9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander, and 5-year-old Tanner, these precious children, the Skeltons, were murdered.

But John Skelton, the dad, who`s being held on $30 million bond, insists his sons are not dead and he has no idea where they could be. Listen to this from HLN affiliate WXYZ.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Do you know where the kids are?

JOHN SKELTON, SUSPECT IN SONS` DISAPPEARANCE: No. Unfortunately, that -- that has escaped me, as well.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

VELEZ-MITCHELL: Time out. It escapes him? Where his own kids could be? Didn`t this guy, John Skelton, insist that he gave his sons to a super secret underground organization? You know, to keep them safe from their mom, his estranged wife, Tanya?

Cops say that claim is a bunch of bull, that these groups do not even exist. And not for nothing. They cleared his wife of any wrongdoing.

Now, we`re going to have more of John Skelton`s jaw-dropping jailhouse interview in just moments. Meantime, cops say John Skelton is now the primary suspect in the investigation, based on a slew of evidence they`ve collected, including a search of his home. What they`re not saying is exactly what they found in this sicko`s home.

Will cops charge Skelton with the murder of his three sons? The cops now believe those precious children are dead, even though this guy claims they`re not. What are they waiting for?

Straight out to family friend Bill Foster.

Bill, you`ve undoubtedly heard his jailhouse interview. What is your reaction to John Skelton`s claims that "Oh, just because it`s a murder investigation, uh-uh, these kids are alive. I gave them to an underground group, but we covered our tracks. And they just won`t be able to find this group"?

BILL FOSTER, FAMILY FRIEND (via phone): Well, if you listen to that whole tape in its entirety, you can -- you can see right through his stories. I mean, John has done nothing but lie time and time again about this whole deal.

You know, what they have for evidence and everything, of course everybody`s not allowed to know. It is a murder investigation. And one thing, if you listen into that tape, and John is so surprised, because this was taped before they come out with changing it to a murder investigation.

VELEZ-MITCHELL: Yes. We`re going to play you some more selections. This is absolutely astounding.

Now, first he said he gave the kids to some lady he met on the Internet because he wanted to get them away from the house, because he planned to commit suicide and he didn`t want his kids to see that. Then he changed his story, and he said he gave them to a secret organization.

Listen to this exchange from Skelton`s unbelievable jailhouse interview. Check this out.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

SKELTON: There is nobody to corroborate seeing them. There`s no pictures of these people. We covered our tracks really well.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

VELEZ-MITCHELL: Now, when he`s talking about "these people," he`s talking about these groups that he gave. Look at these names. All right? Underground Sanctuary. United Foster Outreach. Underground Sanctuaries. Guess what? The cops researched this, and so did I. I went on Google. These groups do not exist, Mike Brooks.

MIKE BROOKS, HLN LAW ENFORCEMENT ANALYST: No. And it just happens to escape him? What a crock of B.S., Jane. I am not buying any of this.

And you know, it`s really not a good thing when law enforcement comes out and says that they, quote -- "there has been a shift in investigative focus" and that they want to put to rest any hope that the boys will be found alive.

.....much more here:
http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/1102/04/ijvm.01.html

Thank you so much Fanny.

http://www.thehinkymeter.com


snipped

What you’ll pick up right away is that John Skelton says a lot of things using the same language and says them with the same delivery as Casey Anthony did in her statements in jail house visits with her parents shortly after being arrested for false statement to law enforcement during the investigation of her missing child, Caylee.  John, like Casey, also contradicts himself almost in the same breath.
snipped

VELEZ-MITCHELL: Now, when he`s talking about "these people," he`s talking about these groups that he gave. Look at these names. All right? Underground Sanctuary. United Foster Outreach. Underground Sanctuaries. Guess what? The cops researched this, and so did I. I went on Google. These groups do not exist, Mike Brooks.

I believe he is telling the truth about giving them to the "Underground Sanctuary"!  The children are probably buried underground and their final resting place is their sanctuary.  Let's look at "United Foster Outreach"...United...means together...all the children are together.  Foster means nourish, to support to bring up.  And Outreach...interesting...can mean exceed, to surpass in reach OR it means...to get the better of by trickery!

So, he did give them to the underground sanctuary that he created for them, their final resting spot, where they are together supporting each other in heaven for they have surpassed their earthly bounds.  And he did this by getting the better of the children's mother by using trickery.  All his words, admitting his guilt.

LIVE NOW ON NG HLN "America's Missing" discussing the case & will be airing an interview Skelton dad gives from jail.

http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/26797186/detail.html

John Skelton Speaks With Local 4
Skelton Says He Gave Boys To Rescue Group

Audio of the phone interview to channel 4 at this site.

http://www.thehinkymeter.com/2011/02/10/skelton-case-john-talks-to-media-again/#more-6133

Skelton case: John talks to media again

I don't buy it.

Me either.  Never have.

I'm hoping that LE has already search the area of the property for turned up dirt?? 

Also...LE better get their hands on that shovel if they haven't already.

Poor babies.

I hope he keeps talking because the more he does, the closer LE will get to locating what he's done with the boys.  Hope he agrees to more interviews soon!

Things that make ya go hmmm...

Interesting post & something I'd never have even thought of, especially considering how odd his choice in title is "United Foster Outreach Underground Sanctuaries":


http://www.websleuths.com/forums/showpost.php?s=82e97d33d908c1120bf89915139aa0fe&p=6117728&postcount=477

Snip:
Consider these possible interpretations:

United Foster Outreach Underground Sanctuaries - U FOUnd uS. Is he laughing to himself because the police have already searched the area where the boys are?

Could also be United Foster Outreach Underground Sanctuaries - U FOUnd Sanctuaries...possibly the same meaning, or maybe trying to convince himself that the boys have found sanctuary, i.e. what he did was right.

Like I said, out there, I know, but I think he chose those words carefully.