Scared Monkeys Discussion Forum

http://abcnews.go.com/US/mother-missing-tennessee/story?id=14867155#.TrHMUXJZrwI   Hat tip:  Itaryl Moosee
Mother of Four Missing in Tennessee
November 2, 2011

(http://a.abcnews.com/images/US/ht_missing_tn_woman_cc_111102_wg.jpg)
Karen Johnson Swift, 44, was last seen at her home in Dyersburg, Tenn. at around 1:30 a.m. Sunday. (Dyer County Sheriff's Office)

 ::snipping2::
Karen Johnson Swift, 44, was last seen by her husband at her home in Dyersburg at approximately 1:30 a.m. on Oct. 30. Dyersburg is about 75 miles northeast of Memphis.

Swift's car, a white 2004 Nissan Murano, was found less than a mile away with a flat tire. The car has been sent to a crime lab in Nashville for forensic testing.

The Dyer County Sheriff's Office is "aggressively investigating" her disappearance, according to a statement from Sheriff Jeff Box. Agents from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Tennessee Highway Patrol and the FBI's Violent Crimes Task force have been searching for Swift with ground searches, helicopters and bloodhounds.

Authorities suspect foul play in Swift's disappearance.
Swift's father Gary Johnson, 67, told ABCNews.com that the family is "worried to death" and that Swift's four children—two boys and two girls—are devastated.

"She had never missed a day since they can remember that she wasn't there to wake them up at 6 a.m.," Johnson said.
 ::snipping2::
Johnson described his daughter as a talented landscaper with a devoted group of customers in her hometown of Walnut Ridge, Ark., where her parents live. Swift was scheduled to go to Arkansas today to do some landscaping.

Swift's mother last spoke to her on Friday. "She sounded excited about coming down here and working," said her father.

He imagines that his daughter got a flat tire and thought she'd just walk home when something must have happened to her.

"She usually runs about three miles a day. She's in real good shape," he said. "She probably figured she'd be able to get home in 10 minutes [on foot]."

Swift is in the process of getting divorced and her husband has been interviewed by police and is not considered a suspect.
 ::snipping2::
Swift has blonde hair and green eyes. She is 5 feet 5 inches and weighs 138 pounds. Investigators are asking that anyone who may recall seeing Swift or has any information regarding her location contact the Dyer County Sheriff's Office at 731-285-2802.
(edit to add "remains found" to subject line.  MB)

Karen's facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/karen.j.swift2?sk=wall (http://www.facebook.com/karen.j.swift2?sk=wall)

Looks like she also had a yard lady service:

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002537491891&sk=wall (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002537491891&sk=wall)

This is their main newspaper:
http://www.stategazette.com/

Paraphrasing, cause they have a copyright note at the bottom of the page... arg!

Karen, 44, was reported missing on Sunday. She was last seen Sunday morning by her husband at their home on Willie Johnson Rd. Her white 2004 Murano was found on Millsfield Highway, near the intersection of Harness Road with a flat tire.

Swift's cell phone is missing, and they searched the area where she last had cell phone activity.

Karen's vehicle was impounded on Sunday. It was shipped Tuesday to the TBI's crime lab in Nashville, to have forensic tests done.

On Tuesday afternoon, sheriff's investigators focused their search in an area at the end of Willie Johnson Road. They found unidentified tire tracks in that area and made a molding of them.

The Sheriff's spokeman said that the investigation is still being treated as a missing persons case, that there is no foul play involved so far.

Karen Johnson Swift is described as:

Age: 44

Race: White

DOB: 1/25/67

Hair: Blonde

Eyes: Green

Height: 5' 5"

Weight 138 lbs.

Anyone who has had contact with Swift, recalls seeing anyone near her vehicle since her disappearance, or has information regarding her whereabouts is asked to contact the Dyer County Sheriff's Office at 731-285-2802.

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1780107.html

She was in a race or participated in a race on 10/22/2011

http://www.racesonline.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=public.race_detail&race_id=12524 (http://www.racesonline.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=public.race_detail&race_id=12524)

Date/Time:    10/22/2011 8:00 AM
Type:    Running/Walking
City:    Dyersburg, TN
Director:    Karen Swift
Email:   swift-14@hotmail.com
Phone:    731 377 5549
Distance:   5k/2mi walk & kids fun run
Details:   1st annual 5k/2mi walk/kids fun run! FAW is a dance studio, owner Cathy Bona! The competition dancers are raising money for nationals in spring 2012.

(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/klaasend/KarenSwift1.jpg)

This is the facebook page for the race/run that she sponsored on Oct 22:

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=241953579173761 (http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=241953579173761)

R-U-N 4 FAW 5k run, 2mi walk/kids fun run
Share · Public Event

Saturday, October 22 · 8:00am - 12:00pm
Location   
Dyer County Fairgrounds
296 James Rice Drive
Dyersburg, TN
Created By   Karen Johnson Swift
More Info   
Fine Arts Warehouse is a dance studio in our community, owned by Cathy Bona! She has approximately 200 dancers! She teaches tap/ballet, hip hop/jazz, voice, piano, tumble, & competition cheer. In the spring advanced competition dancers attend nationals! We are hosting a 5k run, 2 mile walk, & kids fun run, to raise money for these dancers to attend! Following this event, we are having a yard sale! Any donations would be greatly appreciated! We need runners, walkers...come join the fun! Watch for more info... Registeration forms can be picked up at Fine Arts Warehouse, YMCA, Ultimate Fitness,Newbern Gym, & Dyer County Schools. Any questions call Karen Swift 377-5549 or Tiffani Glass 589-0300

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Karen-Swift-Missing-Mom-of-4/267691069942366?sk=info

Karen Swift missing mom of 4 Facebook

(http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/303014_268397013205105_267691069942366_812307_1594794763_n.jpg)

(http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/384685_268397093205097_267691069942366_812310_95194738_n.jpg)

(http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/311839_267691163275690_267691069942366_808514_1829007855_n.jpg)

(http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/304086_268433566534783_267691069942366_812390_187110814_n.jpg)

sigh...

Yeah it doesn't look good Cookie  ::MonkeyNoNo::

How close is this to Holly Bobo?

She walked, so she was in great shape. Karen could've walked anywhere to get help for her flat tire.

And, where is her cellphone? No news about her purse, if it was missing. No mention if something was stolen, so no robbery?

That's a good question, because both are pretty, blond, petite, with light colored eyes.

If I remember correctly, Bobo lived in Memphis... Karen in Dyersburg, in the map that's about 60 miles... one hour?

If it isn't the hubby, then maybe there might be some connection.

Parsons (Bobo) to Dyersburg (Swift) about 1 3/4 hours

(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/klaasend/Picture1-1.jpg)

Thanks klass, for the map.  When I saw this woman's photo I immediately thought of Holly.  Common sense tells me that more than likely the husband is involved as the stats would point to, but you never know.

Thank you, Klaas for the map.

I gotta point out that I was making a VERY VERY rough estimate, and the time was calculated by driving 95 miles an hour.

Haha! Sorry.

Anyway, it is still possible for someone to frequent both locations (Memphis/Dyersburg), either because they have family there or because of a job.

I wonder if the car was more to the Millsfield Hwy. than Harness Rd. The Harness Rd. is very rural and homes are large and spaced far apart. Now the Millsfield Hwy. seems more busy.

The mind first goes to the hubby. She came home late (1:30am), maybe drunk, going through a divorce, maybe an argument started, and someone got violent. Something serious happened and she died, or he had planned it all along?

He had hours to dispose of the body, then make it appear as if she got a flat tire and someone did her in.

Now TBI has the car, and if the tire was cut, they should be able to tell.

New Information In Search for Missing Dyersburg Mother

Adam Hammond

5:46 p.m. CDT, November 2, 2011

 http://www.wreg.com/news/wreg-dyersburg-mom-missing,0,7442521.story (http://www.wreg.com/news/wreg-dyersburg-mom-missing,0,7442521.story)

 ::snipping2::

(Dyersburg, TN 112/2011) Marty Lamb was driving to work around 5:30 AM Sunday when he found Karen Swift's car with a flat tire on Millsville Road in Dyersburg. He says he didn't call police because he didn't think anything of it.

"I noticed it was her vehicle so I pulled in behind it and shined my lights, and I could see that she wasn't in her vehicle," said Lamb.

He figured she just walked home since she lives around the corner on Willie Johnson Road. Later that day he found out the mother of four is missing.

"My wife kept their two younger daughters while he was talking to the cops and trying to figure out where she was at," said Lamb.

We tried speaking with Karen's husband David, but he was not interested in talking. Police say David was the last person to see Karen Saturday night. Karen filed for divorce October 10th.

Police say Karen's last communication was around 5 AM Sunday when she used the internet on her phone, and they're working with the phone company to find out the exact location.

Been reading here and there, and as with other cases, there are some differing facts depending on which news channel one reads.

So far I understand that she filed for divorce on October 11, 2011 (some sources say Oct.10)... he's got 30 days to answer the divorce suit. They had divorced and remarried once before.

According to different people statements, she attended a Halloween party on Saturday night, but one of her young daughters was sick, so she (Karen) left the party early.

She reached her husband at 1:30am.... not sure if that's early for a sick child, but not judging.

Some news say she "dropped" the kids with her husband. Some say they lived together, so he spoke to her at the base of the stairway and he went to sleep.

Some say she went to sleep in the same bed as her sick daughter, but when the daughter woke up, she was in another bed and her mom was nowhere around.

Her SUV was found MUCH later in the day. One neighbor reported seeing it there when he drove to work at 5:30am that morning. He stopped, looked at it and then shrugged it off.

The last time her cell phone was used was around 5:00am, when she accessed the internet (or whoever had it.) Phone records have been requested by LE.

The SUV is being processed for forensics, TBI has it.

She teaches at the YMCA.

Has two older sons, and two young daughters.

Her husband's name is David Swift, here is a picture of their home:
(http://kfvs12.images.worldnow.com/images/15940482_BG5.jpg)

Here are articles of which I got the information above:

http://www.wmctv.com/story/15954558/friends-wait-for-information-in-search-for-missing-dyer-county-woman

http://www.kfvs12.com/story/15940482/search-continues-for-missing-dyer-county-mom

http://www.wbbjtv.com/news/local/CandleLightVigilHeldForKarenSwift-133052453.html

http://www.abc24.com/news/local/story/Son-Of-Missing-Dyersburg-Woman-Says-His-Dad-Didnt/SLEoasKTjEuSnW_IhDovzQ.cspx


http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2056950/Karen-Johnson-Swift-missing-Tennessee-mother-vanished-Halloween-party.html

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-57318097-504083/tenn-mother-of-four-karen-swift-missing-since-sunday/

Hey cartfly.

Wondering what the online call at 5:00m is all about. I'm sure LE will figure it out.

I found this news about Jacque Weller, someone mentioned her as being one of three women who disappeared in the area:

http://www.kfvs12.com/story/15957458/items-related-to-waller-case-found-friday-search-planned-near-fruitland

Thanks for the information Itaryl, I have been following Jacque's case also but I don't think LE has to look far for the perp, jmo though....
Allot of weird things going on in Tenn. I just read an article on a sex trafficking ring being busted in Memphis......it makes me so sad to think of all the evil out in the world.

Hey, just wanted to let you know that I am going to post your update on Jacque's thread. Thanks again for the information. ::MonkeyAngel::

44 Year Old Karen Johnson Swift Missing Since 10/30/11 in Dyersburg, Tn

http://scaredmonkeys.com/2011/11/03/44-year-old-karen-johnson-swift-missing-since-103011-in-dyersburg-tn/


I hate to say it but how many times have we seen this similar MO play out? Couple in the middle of a divorce or just having divorced/break up and the old "if I can't have you, no body will" plays out. I would be interested in knowing what caused the tire puncture. Was there still an object in the tire, was it a puncture or was just the air let out of the tire?

I am certain they are doing all types of tests within the vehicle at the Forensic lab. This case not looking like there will be a positive outcome.

http://100gf.wordpress.com/2011/11/04/is-disappearance-of-karen-swift-linked-to-holly-bobo-case/
Is disappearance of Karen Swift linked to Holly Bobo case?

Ok, Karen was at a Halloween party.  Was this a kids' party or adult party?  Was Karen wearing a costume? 

http://www.topix.com/forum/city/dyersburg-tn/TU89FIR5OP3F39I43/p3

Interesting post on topix. 

The party was at a place called The Farm and hubby was questioned 4 times.

Shelley Mook is another young, pretty blond missing from that area.  It does seem as though the husband might be involved.

http://www.charleyproject.org/cases/m/mook_shelley.html

http://www.wreg.com/news/wreg-swift-day-5,0,4926315.story

Some interesting reading on those comments.

One user mentions seven women who have disappeared in the area this year, one of them in 2001. The body of one of them was found yesterday, Nancy Williams.

One commenter in the same page you quoted talks about David, the husband, threatening suicide if she divorced him.

Dyersburg is a VERY rural town. It has to be to have places like Cricket Square, and the place where Karen went to the party has been quoted as "The Farms"... some links from yesterday suggest it is a subdivision, some say is a nightclub.

The local newspapers websites are not printing much of the story. They rather publish pumpkin throwing events, high school teams (like the Comets) games... they still have Steve Jobs death on the front page of a few of them.

This morning my local CBS station had a 15 second cover on the story. It seems the police is searching up to 14 miles from home...

... so I wonder why are they not searching her home? I mean, a lot could be found by just saying they are looking for a plane ticket, or searching the computer to check her activities. Anything they see suspicious can be collected later with a warrant.

I mean, time's awasting. While the police is searching like crazy all over town, the home could be a crime scene being washed with Clorox or vinegar as we speak... or read.

JMO

I believe "The Farms" is a golf/country club:

http://www.westtngolf.com/social.html

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1781372.html (http://www.stategazette.com/story/1781372.html)

Sheriff's Dept. intensifies search with aid of THP Strike Teams, potential evidence found

Friday, November 4, 2011

Close to 30 law enforcement personnel performed an intensified search of the Millsfeild area on Friday morning for evidence in the case of Karen Johnson Swift.
Members of the Dyer County Sheriff's Department, two Tennessee Highway Patrol Strike Teams, and members of the Shelby County Sheriff's Dept. combed the area where Swift's SUV was found and around her home on Willie Johnson Road.

The officers formed a line along Millsfield Highway and walked west, combing woods, fields, ditches and thickets of overgrown brush.

Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box organized the search and said they were going back over the area more carefully and searching for even the tiniest bit of evidence that could be connected to Swift's disappearance.

Roughly, thirty minutes into their search, Box stated Strike Team members had found evidence in an overgrown area believed to be connected to Swift.

"We will have to wait for the results to come back," said Box.
 ::snipping2::

(http://www.stategazette.com/photos/15/73/09/1573099-H.jpg)

A second vigil was performed tonight.
Edit to add previously omitted link per Moosee.  MB
http://www.wmctv.com/story/15964916/loved-ones-hold-second-vigil-for-missing-mother-of-four

http://www.wmctv.com/story/15964916/loved-ones-hold-second-vigil-for-missing-mother-of-four

Forgot link for previous message. OOopsie!

 ::MonkeyReindeer::

Okay, this is just getting weird..... ::MonkeyNoNo::

Deputies arrest man accused of poisoning Swifts' dog
Saturday, November 5, 2011


Dyer County Sheriff's deputies arrested a suspect on an outstanding felony warrant for animal cruelty while searching for evidence in the Karen Johnson Swift case.

John E. Hogshooter, 39, 285 Pennell Lane, was arrested by sheriff's officers on Saturday for aggravated animal cruelty while performing their search of a wooded area on Harness Road in Dyer County. Hogshooter is accused of poisoning two dogs in the area, one of which belonged to the Swifts.

Swift's husband, David Swift, reported the incident to sheriff's deputies on Oct. 7. In the report, David Swift stated he observed his dog travel to 310 Harness Road, where Hogshooter had been staying, and it fell ill shortly afterward. Karen Swift was reported to have gone to the dwelling to speak to Hogshooter, but he was not there and she saw a blue rocky substance in a pan. The dog was taken to an animal clinic and was given medication to counteract the alleged poison, then was released after overnight observation.

A neighbor of the Swifts is also said by officials to have had their dog poisoned in the same incident and the dog had died.

Hogshooter's Harness Road address is approximately 50 yards from the Swift residence on Willie Johnson Road, and almost directly across the road from the address where the other dog was allegedly found poisoned.
 ::snipping2:: ::snipping2::

Hogshooter remains in the Dyer County Jail without bond until his appearance before a judge on Monday morning at the jail.

[url] http://www.stategazette.com/story/1781533.html[url]
(http://www.stategazette.com/photos/15/73/40/1573406-H.jpg)

came across this on Topix from 2010:

http://www.topix.com/forum/city/dyersburg-tn/TKPHE7LTI1OBR3OE4  (http://www.topix.com/forum/city/dyersburg-tn/TKPHE7LTI1OBR3OE4)
 ::snipping2::
comment #3:

find another:
DO NOT let him do ANY work on your home. He is totally unprofessional, does shoddy work, and is a jerk. I have NEVER had to deal with such nonsense in my life, it was unbelievable. I would advise you to steer clear of him or ANY business associated with him. Trust me, worst experience EVER.

Wow.  I wonder if this guy had had contact with Karen?

http://blinkoncrime.com/2011/11/05/karen-swift-missing-in-tn-clothing-evidence-found-neighbor-john-hogshooter-arrested-car-impounded/ (http://blinkoncrime.com/2011/11/05/karen-swift-missing-in-tn-clothing-evidence-found-neighbor-john-hogshooter-arrested-car-impounded/)

Karen Swift Missing in TN: Clothing Evidence Found-Neighbor John Hogshooter Arrested, Car Impounded

 ::snipping2::

Jeff  Box,  Dyer County Sheriff, believes “answers in her case” have been found and await possible DNA testing.

Check back to www.blinkoncrime.com for updates.

 ::snipping2::

So David Swift (65 Willie Johnson Rd.) saw the dog walk to where Hogshooter was staying, and later the dog got sick and had to go to the vet. A dog living in front of where Hogshooter was staying (310 Harness Rd.) died of poisoning.

Okay, I made the map to see if the husband could REALLY see his dog walk to Hogshooter's from his home. I guess he could, but he should have good far vision, though it's not too far.

(http://s803.photobucket.com/albums/yy315/TomboyKetchup/scakeys-routedog.jpg)

That almost sounds like remains were found.

what a name...Hogshooter...

I think it may be a Native American name.

could be...

I was thinking about this last night.  I wonder if Karen decided to stop at Hogshooter's home for help and got attacked or if he keeps dogs in his yard that maybe saw her walking by? 

John E. Hogshooter Arrested for Aggravated Animal Cruelty for Poisoning Missing Karen Johnson Swift’s Dog

http://scaredmonkeys.com/2011/11/07/john-e-hogshooter-arrested-for-aggravated-animal-cruelty-for-poisoning-missing-karen-johnson-swifts-dog/


Just makes one wonder when one abuses an animal just how well wrapped they are that they might escalate the situation.

could be..but I would think that she would avoid him since their confrontation of his poisoning her dog...this is beginning to look like a vendetta possibly....

The report of the poisoning was made October 7th. Could she had waited this long to make a house call between 1:30am and 5:30am?

Why stop at Hogshooter's home, if she could go 150 yards to her home to get her tire fixed?

------
There is no mention of which poison was used.

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1781533.html

However, the comments on Dyersburg State Gazette suggest that the poison was to kill flies, and the dogs (who were roaming loose in the neighborhood) just happened to drink it.

Keep in mind that these are just comments:


...and...


Some of these are hilarious, though:


Last one:


I hope it's alright to post a few comments. If not, please delete.

 ::hanukkah1::

Well, I was thinking that if Karen were walking by his home on the way back to her's maybe his dog attacked her and he panicked?  Or, maybe she didn't want to have to ask her soon to be ex for help with the car and decided to ask the neighbor to help???  Do we really know what was said in the dog incident?  Maybe it wasn't as ugly as the media has reported?   :smt102

Sadly, what if he is the one who found her with the flat tire?

Ten days since Karen disappeared, police say they aren't giving up... yet.

They are using all kinds of high tech equipment, and many LE members to search woods, etc... They will take pictures of the areas where evidence was found and plot the area for future use in court, if the case goes to trial.


(http://www.stategazette.com/photos/15/74/12/1574126-M.jpg)


I hope this debris removing army doesn't destroy any valuable evidence.

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1782081.html

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1782077.html

Suspect released on bond in dog-poisoning case

Karen never spoke to Hogshooter!!!!!!!!  So, would he have known that she had gone to his home and later called LE?

Hogshooter was maybe staying at that address on Harness Rd. His address was quoted as 285 Pennell Lane:

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1781533.html

So, maybe he stays there, but he lives elsewhere... or maybe he stays in both places and has no place of his own.

-----

This morning the police released the picture of the white SUV that Karen drove, and a picture of the location where it was found. The article says the car was facing North, and was stopped right before a left turn to turn into Harness Rd.
(http://i803.photobucket.com/albums/yy315/TomboyKetchup/scakeys-karenroads.jpg)

The picture shows a lot of dirt on the tires, but it could be from the ground where it parked, cause the streets don't seem so muddy... except where she lives, the entrance seems not paved:
(http://i803.photobucket.com/albums/yy315/TomboyKetchup/scakeys-karencar.jpg)

The tracks on the ground seem to have turned coming North, unless these tracks were made by police, or the guy who says he checked on the car that morning:
(http://i803.photobucket.com/albums/yy315/TomboyKetchup/scakeys-karencartracks.jpg)

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1782538.html

In the day the car was found, the news said that tiretracks were found nearby and molds were made of them. I wonder if they turn out to be Marty Lamb's tires.

So, how would Hogshooter even know that the Swift's had reported the poisoning to LE?  Wouldn't LE have arrested him on the spot if they'd talked with him about it?

ive been reading,and getting confused,about this case,here are some things
i looked at
the addy,that the news article listed for hogshooter,not sure which addy
i found 2,on google maps,but gis map for tn,lists a dif house # and owner
so im confused about that,and the pennell addy is several miles south from
the car area map,im going to try and fig it out,wish me luck
  
285 Pennell Lane dyersburg tn
and
285 Pennell Ln Exd, Dyersburg, TN
http://g.co/maps/t57wg

its weird,if swift car was heading north,where was she coming from,and help was close by
IE: her home,millsfield V fire dept,lock store,and the Forestry Division all with in a
mile or so

A.swift car/flat tire
and
B.310 HARNESS RD  dyersburg tn/hogshooter addy,and the gis lists him as owner
Owner: HOGSHOOTER JOHN E ET UX
Owner 2: BRONWEN K HOGSHOOTER
Address: HARNESS RD 310
and
C.65 WILLIE JOHNSON dyersburg tn/swift addy
Owner: SWIFT DAVID ET UX
Owner 2: KAREN SWIFT
Address: WILLIE JOHNSON 65
G-map of
http://g.co/maps/6fbmd

tn gis map info link
http://www.assessment.state.tn.us/SelectCounty.asp?map=true&SelectCounty=023
Edit to change out of gas to flat tire.  MB

(Bolded by me)

Karen Swift's car didn't run out of gas, it had a flat tire when it was found.

http://abcnews.go.com/US/mother-missing-tennessee/story?id=14867155#.TrHMUXJZrwI
<snip>
Swift's car, a white 2004 Nissan Murano, was found less than a mile away with a flat tire. The car has been sent to a crime lab in Nashville for forensic testing.
<snip>

The Huffington Post is reporting that clothing that belonged to Karen was found in some bushes near the car.

This not officially confirmed, of course... so take with a grain of salt.

More salt needed.

So Hogshooter is just guilty of poisoning dogs, and for being an ahole.

(http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/196408/slide_196408_462869_large.jpg)
Karen and David Swift

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/09/karen-johnson-swift-missing-clothing_n_1084468.html#s462869&title=Karen_And_David

TY MB for the correction,flat tire,not out of gas (I edited your post to read "flat tire" MB)

was the jack,and tire tampered with,like someone was going to use it but didnt

When I first saw the tracks left by the car, it was obvious that the car was not headed North, but was headed South and then turned around.

The Gazette confirms this:
http://www.stategazette.com/story/1782538.html

(http://i803.photobucket.com/albums/yy315/TomboyKetchup/scakeys-karencartracks.jpg)

Okay, so far stuff looked like the hubby is an innocent bystander, but things are beginning to look hinky.

First off, the clothing... no underwear left behind? The clothing (jeans and top on the brush near the car) makes it appear as if there was a spur of the moment (flat tire incident) sexual attack.

But, how many (spur of the moment) attackers leave the clothing behind but take the person or body with them?

So far no news of footprints on the mud around the car.

If she had a flat going South, just turning into the highway... why not park on the right side of the road, which is closer to her home? And, if she turned around... why not park closer to a residence or light pole, instead of choosing the isolated spot?

Heck, in the middle of the night I would've drove home with a flat tire, done it twice before in the daytime.

Seems that maybe the flat tire, the clothing on the bush, the turning around of the car were things done to make it appear as if she had a flat and was attacked. Maybe the police should check the home, to see if they find indications of where she could've gone... maybe check her computer, do a luminol test, or something.

I would have driven home on the flat tire too

Let's hope this old sheriff doesn't get bamboozled and side-trackled by the husband and his lawyer.

Yes, he's got a lawyer, but the sheriff has other resources, too.

Hopefully the case doesn't turn into another Drew Petersen, Craig Stebic, Josh Powell, etc... type of case.

I said it before and I say it again... when two people are divorcing, they should not be living in the same home. You don't want to tempt someone into doing evil things.

JMO

Hmmm... WBBJTV reports that police was at Karen's home today, but doesn't say that the home was searched.

I wonder if they did.

http://www.wbbjtv.com/news/local/InvestigationIntoSwiftsDisappearanceContinues-133669618.html

Okay, so the house was searched yesterday, according to the Gazette.
http://www.stategazette.com/story/1783449.html

This is 12 days after she disappeared. What took them that long? It was the last place where she was seen at, and searching her stuff would've given them an idea of where she could've gone, or if she left any evidence to indicate what happened to her.

Of course, of the record, it would've given the police a chance to check fresh evidence, in case the hubby is involved in her disappearance.

---

I read somewhere that the teenage daughter was the one who called her mom to get picked up. Why not call the father?

About my last comment...

It should not say "teenage daughter", as it already has been established that Karen has two sons in college, and two younger daughters aged 7 and 9.

So this teenage daughter referred on the article below should be the one dated 9?


http://www.abc24.com/mostpopular/story/TBI-Steps-Up-Search-For-Missing-Dyersburg-Mom/mHH1jSHbmk2DiFD9aEpxCw.cspx

My apologies for passing our wrong info.

I would very much like to know how was Karen's absence noticed and when and how she was reported missing.

It was said that one daughter woke up at around 6:30am, but no information about anyone in the home realizing she was missing, and how was it decided to call police. Did the husband try calling friends to see if Karen was staying somewhere else?

Karen's car was spotted by Mr. Lamb at around 5:30am. Nowhere does it say that Mr. Lamb reported the incident because the news at the time said he thought she had a flat and she walked home.

Investigation into Swift disappearance switches gears
http://www.stategazette.com/story/1783869.html

 ::crymonkey2::

(video at link also)

Son of missing Dyer County woman makes desperate plea for help

Posted: Nov 12, 2011 3:33 PM CST Updated: Nov 12, 2011 3:34 PM CST
By Kontji Anthony

http://www.wmctv.com/story/16024733/son-of-missing-dyersburg-woman-makes-desperate-plea-for-help  (http://www.wmctv.com/story/16024733/son-of-missing-dyersburg-woman-makes-desperate-plea-for-help)

 ::snipping2::

Among the volunteers searching for Karen Swift was her oldest son, Preston Swift.

"We want to know she's OK," said Preston Swift.  "I love you, Mom."

Preston Swift made a desperate plea for the community after his mother vanished October 30.

"Right now, our main concern is to find my mom," he said.  "We've been looking every day, searching."

Dozens of volunteers scoured the woods near Karen Swift's Dyersburg home Saturday on horseback.  Investigators have found her abandoned SUV and some of her clothes.

Preston Swift said the unknown is taking its toll.

"We're very worried, very concerned," said Preston Swift.  "We are getting a little desperate."

Preston Swift said he is also concerned about taking care of his younger sisters, ages seven and nine.

The morning the 44-year-old disappeared, she picked up her daughter from a Halloween sleepover around 1:30 a.m. because her daughter was not feeling well.  When the daughter woke up just before 6:00 a.m., Karen Swift was no longer next to her.

"We've been taking care of them very well," said Preston Swift.  "They're a little confused, as all of us are."
 ::snipping2::

Not much news on this, other than the sheriff awaiting forensic reports.

If there is nothing substantial coming from the labs, this case will end up in the bottom drawer... waiting for a confession, or for a miracle.

If her body is not found soon, much evidence will be lost.

It is so sad that so many wives are murdered and their cases go unsolved because of their cold-heartened calculating callous-minded murderous husbands.

A spur of the moment murder can be solved in days, but one in which the act took planning and careful execution goes unsolved.

What this case needs is someone who knows something to speak up.

Nancy grace is talking about  Karen's disappearance...the little 6 yr old girl is refusing to eat..poor baby...they showed her son making a plea for his mom..it is so sad!

Tennessee Mother of Four Missing Since Halloween
(note, Karen's Mother and best friend are interviewed by Nancy within)

 http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/1111/15/ng.01.html (http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/1111/15/ng.01.html)

Aired November 15, 2011 - 20:00   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.


NANCY GRACE, HOST: Breaking news tonight, live, Tennessee. An upscale Memphis-area neighborhood reeling after a beautiful young mom of four vanishes without a trace. Mommy picks up her 9-year-old little girl from a sleepover in the middle of the night, when the girl wants to come home. At 1:45 AM, Mommy and little girl go to sleep together. Four hours later, 9-year-old wakes up, Mommy is gone! Mommy`s white Nissan found abandoned, flat tire, less than a mile from home. Were Mommy`s clothes found in heavy brush nearby?

Bombshell tonight. After frantic text messages to Mommy`s best friend that night, was Mommy`s cellphone used again at 5:00 AM? CSI scours the family home and the 6-year-old daughter refusing to eat without Mommy, tonight, where is mother of four Karen Swift?

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: There are more questions than answers into the disappearance of Tennessee mom of four Karen Swift.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: We are very worried, very concerned. If anyone has any information about her, please, please let us know.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Karen Swift was reportedly last seen by her husband, David Swift, with whom she was in the process of divorcing.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Investigators took to the sky, looking for anything that could help them find Karen Swift.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Investigators searched this wooded area a few miles from her home. Swift was known to jog here.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Everybody was posting it on FaceBook, everybody that knew her, asking for prayers and to look for her.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: We are very concerned and very worried. And we want her to come home safe!

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Investigators later found Swift`s vehicle, a white 2004 Nissan Murano with a flat tire in the northern Dyer County.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Friends report some of Karen`s clothing was found in the car and some was found in brush near the car.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: At this time, we`re not ruling out foul play, but we need the evidence to point us there. We`ve had helicopters in this area. We`ve had bloodhounds. We`ve had numerous law enforcement on the ground. We`ve had assistance from the highway patrol.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: We just want to know. We want to know she`s OK. And I love you, Mom!

(END VIDEO CLIP)

GRACE: Good evening. I`m Nancy Grace. I want to thank you for being with us. Bombshell tonight. Upscale Memphis-area neighborhood reeling after a beautiful young mom of four vanishes without a trace. After frantic text messages to her best friend that night, was Mommy`s cellphone used again 5:00 AM? CSI scouring the family home, and her 6-year-old little girl refusing to eat without her mommy. Tonight, where is mother of four Karen Swift?

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Police are searching for a missing mom of four who was last seen inside her home.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Told me that they had reported her missing.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Deputies found her car with a flat tire.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Looking for any unknown tire tracks, any unknown items that might be in the area.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Friends report some of Karen`s clothing was found in the car and some was found in brush near the car.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: (INAUDIBLE) this is just unbelievable that she`s gone right now.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Investigators searched this wooded area a few miles from her home. Swift was known to jog here.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The search for Karen Swift remains in full swing.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Police have searched the area with dogs and helicopters, but there`s been no sign of the missing mom.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Asking for prayers and to look for her.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I`m in total shock, but I keep hoping for the best.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: We are very concerned and very worried. And we want her to come home safe!

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: What happened to Karen Swift?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

GRACE: We are live and taking your calls. Where is Karen Swift? Mommy right in the middle of filing a divorce. She had just filed a divorce, husband living in the home with her. Was it like "The War of the Roses"? Let me announce right up front Daddy not a suspect. Four children left in the wake, including a 6-year-old and a 9-year-old.

What`s so disturbing, in addition to Mommy being gone, of course, is that Mommy is asleep in the bed with the 9-year-old little girl. She was at a sleepover that night. She wanted to come home to Mommy. Mommy gets up in the middle of the night, drives to the sleepover, brings the girl home, 1:45 AM, they both get in bed together, like I do with Lucy and John David every single night.

But when the 9-year-old wakes up, Mommy`s gone. The 9-year-old goes to the kitchen, goes to the den looking for Mommy. No Mommy! Where is Karen Swift?

We are taking your calls. Out to Bonnie Druker, our producer on the story. Bonnie, what can you tell me?

BONNIE DRUKER, NANCY GRACE PRODUCER: Well, as you mentioned, Nancy, this mother disappeared in the middle of the night. Here`s how the story goes down. The 6-year-old is at a party, a sleepover party for Halloween. She calls. She text messages her mother.

Her mother goes to pick her up, and then they get into bed when they get home and the mom is soothing the 9-year-old daughter, just as you would do with your daughter. The daughter wakes up and the mother is gone. The car is found several hours later on the side of the road, Nancy.

GRACE: I`m just thinking, Bonnie, when Lucy and John David wake up and they`ve been sleeping with me at night, and if I`m in the kitchen making their breakfast or their lunches for school or something, they get very, very upset that I`m not still there. They get very, very upset.

To David Lohr, senior crime reporter HuffingtonPost. All right, I`ve got the timeline. Mommy takes daughter sleepover, 1:45 AM, daughter wants to come home. She goes and gets the 9-year-old. The husband`s living in some other room in the house. He`s there with the children while she goes and picks up the daughter. Then what happens, David?

DAVID LOHR, HUFFINGTONPOST: Well, as you said, it`s 6:00 AM. The daughter wakes up. Mommy`s nowhere to be found. The husband notifies police. About a half a mile down the road, they locate her car, tires flat on the vehicle. She`s nowhere to be found.

They do find a neighbor who said he had spotted the car there about 5:30 that morning. He was concerned, pulled up behind it, shined his lights in there, but there was nobody inside.

And we also have reports that her cellphone had been used around 5:00 AM. Authorities have subpoenaed those records. But at this time, they`re not telling us whether that was an outgoing or incoming call. So we don`t know a lot there.

But you know, this mother just basically vanished in the middle of the night. And where she went, we don`t know.

GRACE: Hey, Liz, let`s see that house again. That is some shack! I`m particularly interested in the garage, a carport. Let me get that up as quickly as you can, Liz.

To Matt Zarrell, also -- hold on. Hold on. There you go. Let`s see, what can I see here? I think that the garage is over on the left as we`re looking at it. I bet those two windows are in the garage.

Do we know, Matt Zarrell, did Mommy park in the garage or not?

MATT ZARRELL, NANCY GRACE PRODUCER: No, we don`t know yet. Her car has been taken to the TBI forensic lab for testing. They`re also still trying to figure out, Nancy, the flat tire, whether the flat tire was slashed or whether the air was let out of the tire and how the tire became flat. And then what happened when the tire became flat, who was driving the car. Was it Karen?

GRACE: We are taking your calls. With me right now exclusively is Karen`s mother, Carol Johnson. We are taking your calls. Carol Johnson, thank you for being with us.

CAROL JOHNSON, MISSING WOMAN`S MOTHER (via telephone): Yes. You`re welcome.

GRACE: Carol, we are putting your daughter`s picture up. Everyone, tip line 731-285-2802. You know, Carol, I don`t care if your daughter is grown up or not, you still want to talk to her all the time. I talked to my parents right before I came and sat in this anchor chair.

Let me ask you, when was the last time you spoke to Karen?

JOHNSON: I spoke with Karen on Friday afternoon between 6:00 and 6:30 on the 28th of October.

GRACE: And what did she say? What was on her mind at that time?

JOHNSON: Well, at the moment, she was putting the final touches on a Halloween party for the girls. They were going to do -- they had a bonfire. They were going to do a hay ride, mummy wrapping and maybe bobbing for apples. I`m not sure what. And we talked a little bit about her plans.

She had taken some training to be able to be trainer for -- they call it "Silver Sneakers," I think. And she was telling me some other things she had lined up. And she was really excited about what was going on in her life. And she had actually planned -- she had a job lined up in Pokinis (ph), Arkansas. And I was going to go down, and you know, help her a little bit and be with her.

GRACE: What job did she have lined up? What did she want to do?

JOHNSON: Some kind of landscaping. I`m not even sure where. But she told me she had one lined up in Pokinis and that she was going to come Wednesday and -- because I had helped her on some jobs before. And I asked her, I said, When are you coming back to Pokinis? And she said, well, she had one and that she would try to get to it Wednesday. But that never (INAUDIBLE)

GRACE: Hey, you know what? Carol -- everybody, with me is Karen`s mom. I`m seeing a shot of her. Let me see that again, Liz, if you don`t mind. She`s got on a black Nike shirt and a hat. But it looks like she was at a race.

It`s my understanding that she had just lost a lot of weight and that she was routinely working out and exercising. And the husband, who is not a suspect, didn`t like all this and the way that she was dressing now. She was wearing, well, what we all wear, bluejeans and T-shirts. There she is. She is at a race. Did she just finish a race, Ms. Johnson?

JOHNSON: She raced quite often, little marathons there in local areas, you know? And her little girls were even running some. Her little 6-year-old finished fourth in the 6 to 9-year-old in a mile about a week or so ago. Yes, she ran.

GRACE: She is absolutely gorgeous. Your daughter is gorgeous.

JOHNSON: Thank you.

GRACE: Had she just lost a lot of weight? What can you tell me about that?

JOHNSON: I don`t think she had lost a lot of weight. I mean, as the papers are stating, she weighed -- well, I won`t say what she weighed. No, I don`t think she -- she was just working herself up, is what she was doing.

GRACE: Oh, I see.

JOHNSON: She hasn`t lost a lot of weight.

GRACE: She had recently started -- yes, she looks beautiful. I don`t really see a difference, but I do know -- there she is with one of her trophies -- that she was working out, really getting into good shape. Is it true that she had just filed for divorce recently?

JOHNSON: Yes, she did file for divorce on October 10th.

GRACE: Why was the husband still living in the house?

JOHNSON: I really can`t answer that question, you know, because I wasn`t there.

GRACE: OK.

JOHNSON: I`m not there, so I couldn`t say. I do know that when she filed for divorce, she and the girls took a short vacation before he was notified of the divorce.

GRACE: OK. I`m reading you loud and clear. They left town. What do you think happened, Ms. Johnson?

JOHNSON: I don`t know. I wish I knew. I wish I knew where my daughter is. I wish I know if my daughter`s safe.

GRACE: You are seeing shots right now of Karen Johnson, (SIC) a mother of four. She goes to sleep with her 9-year-old little girl around 1:45 AM. They get into bed together. That morning, 6:00 AM, she`s gone. Her 6-year-old daughter now refusing to eat until Mommy comes home.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Preston Swift has been making a desperate plea for help ever since his mother vanished on October 30th. Preston remembers the last time he saw her.

PRESTON SWIFT, SON OF MISSING WOMAN: We met up at a college football game, me and my family, and I saw her then. I want to say about it was about three or four weeks ago.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Preston says nothing appeared to be out of the ordinary.

SWIFT: Everything seemed OK.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The single mother of four children disappeared after she picked up her daughter from a Halloween sleepover around 1:30 AM because her daughter was not feeling well. Hours later, Swift had vanished.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: While the search for Karen Swift remains in full swing.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Karen Swift.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Seems to have vanished without a trace.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Everything seemed OK. I`m very worried!

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Reportedly last seen by her husband inside their home.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Searched this wooded area a few miles from her home.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Deputies found her SUV at this intersection.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: And we want her to come home safe!

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: What happened to Karen Swift?

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Karen Swift went missing from her home that`s right down this road.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Deputies found her car with a flat tire.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Everybody that knew her asking for prayers and to look for her.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Please let us know!

(END VIDEO CLIP)

GRACE: Tonight, the family begging for prayers, in the search for mom Karen Swift, mother of four, including a 6-year-old and 9-year-old little girl. The other two are boys.

We`re taking your calls. I want to go now to not only Karen (SIC) Johnson, the first interview that Karen`s mother has granted, but also Jenny Gurien. This is Karen`s very good friend. She`s the one that received those urgent text messages the night Karen goes missing.

Now, let me get a timeframe on that. Jenny joining us from Lexington, Tennessee. Jenny, thank you for being with us.

JENNY GURIEN, MISSING WOMAN`S FRIEND (via telephone): You`re welcome.

GRACE: Jenny, you and Karen were extremely close. She was texting you around 11:30 PM that evening?

GURIEN: Yes, ma`am. Well, she called me at 11:38, at 11:39. And then at 11:40, she sent me a text that said, Jenny, call me please. And I had went to bed at 11:00 o`clock.

GRACE: Did she leave a voicemail message when she called?

GURIEN: She did not. I didn`t even have -- I have a new phone, so my voicemail has not -- I hadn`t even had it set up yet.

GRACE: In her text message, she said, Call me please. Were there exclamation points?

GURIEN: Yes, she did.

GRACE: Was that normal for her?

GURIEN: It was normal for her to text me. She did that a lot. But for her to call me two times in a row, and then when I didn`t respond for her to then text me, that was -- that was -- I felt like that she was upset about something.

GRACE: So that was around 11:30 PM that evening. Her daughter was at a sleepover, the 9-year-old, anyway. Around 1:30, she finds out the daughter wants to come home. That`s not uncommon. And she is the one who gets up in the middle of the night and goes and brings the daughter home.

GURIEN: Right.

GRACE: 5:00 AM, her phone is used reportedly, our sources say, for a Google search. Did she normally go on her phone for Internet purposes?

GURIEN: Karen was always on her phone. She played games on her phone. She was -- she was on the Internet a lot on her phone. She did everything on her phone.

GRACE: Let me ask you, Jenny, have you been told what the Google search was for?

GURIEN: I have not. No, ma`am, I have not.

GRACE: Have police spoken to you?

GURIEN: I spoke to them a couple of times about our recent conversations and just things that were going on with her.

GRACE: What were your recent conversations about, the divorce?

GURIEN: Yes, she spoke with me about the divorce. And then she talked about her girls and just she was excited about, you know, getting her life together and doing the Silver Sneakers program. And she had been running 5Ks. And she was just very vibrant, very energetic, very happy and just very excited.

GRACE: Is it true, Jenny, that the husband, who is not a suspect, disapproved of the way she dressed and of her going to friends` homes and basically really having friends outside the home?

GURIEN: You know, Karen and David had problems just like any married couple. I know they were going through a divorce. I think their main interest -- the both of them -- was, you know, to make things as smooth as possible for their children. I think that was their common ground, was their kids.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Investigators took to the sky, looking for anything that could help them find Karen Swift.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Every day that we look, we are adding something to the investigation. We are either ruling things in or out.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: In the meantime, whether it`s by air or by ground, investigators are searching for clues to find a Dyer County mother who seems to have vanished without a trace.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

GRACE: We are taking your calls. We are live in a Memphis suburb where a young mom of four goes missing. Take a look at Karen Johnson Swift. Her 6-year-old daughter won`t eat now until Mommy comes home, upset, depressed, withdrawn. Mommy`s car found on the side of the road.

Back to David Lohr, senior crime reporter, HuffingtonPost. For those of you just joining us, give me the timeline one more time, David. And I want to hear about the condition of the car. We`ve also had reported that clothes, reportedly belonging to Karen, were found near the abandoned car. Were those tires slashed? Was the air let out of the tires?

David Lohr, what do we know? We know she was not in the car at 5:30 when the neighbor drove by.

LOHR: Yes. Correct. We know she wasn`t in the car at 5:30. We know somebody used her phone at 5:00 AM. We know the vehicle has a flat tire. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, they currently have the vehicle. They`re not saying whether or not the tire was sliced or how it had gone flat yet.

Now, friends I spoke with, they said that some clothing, a gray zip- up, like someone would use for jogging, along with some jeans were found nearby. They said they`ve compared the mother`s DNA to those. Law enforcement, though -- they`re not confirming whether or not those items of clothing belong to her.

And I`d also like to point out, too, that when I spoke with her friends -- and as you mentioned how she liked to jog and everything -- where the car was found, about a half mile from the home, they said it would have been nothing for her to just hop out and jog home. She could have done it in a minute or two. They said she wouldn`t have called for help. She wouldn`t have sat there and waited for someone. She would have made her way back to the house.

GRACE: You know, you`re right, David Lohr. It was only about a quarter mile from the home.

Back to Jenny Gurien, Karen Swift`s friend that she tried desperately to contact that night around 11:30 PM. But take that in context of the timeline. She pick ups her daughter at 1:45 AM.

Jenny, it`s been reported to us that there was a lot of animosity from the husband about the divorce. He didn`t like the way she dressed in T- shirts and jeans. He didn`t like her going to friends` houses or going out with any of her friend girls. Can you confirm any of that?

GURIEN: I can tell you that he did not want the divorce. You know, he loved his family, wanted them to stay together. As far as any personal problems they had, I cannot comment on that.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: We want to know she`s OK, and I love you, mom.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Preston Swift has been making a desperate plea for help ever since his mother vanished.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Investigators took to the sky looking for anything that could help them find Karen Swift.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: At this time, we`re not ruling out foul play.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Swift was last seen at her home early Sunday morning. The mother of four children had just returned home from a party.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: If anyone has any information about her, please, please let us know.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Investigators found possible evidence between Swift`s home and the intersection where her vehicle was found.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: We are fairly confident that some of the items we`ve got would definitely be tied to this case.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Investigators are searching for clues that find a dyer county mother who seems to have vanished without a trace.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: We met up at a college football game, me and my family, and I saw her then. I want to say it was about three or four weeks ago. Everything seemed OK. If my mother is out there --

(END VIDEO TAPE)

GRACE: We are live in a Memphis area suburb where a beautiful young mom of four goes missing as she lies sleeping with her 9-year-old little girl, in bed with her. Where is Karen? Unleash the lawyers.

Joining us, Jason Oshins, defense attorney New York and New Jersey. A. Scott Bolden, defense attorney, Washington, D.C.

OK, Jason Oshins, why do I keep seeing the sons begging to find mommy? The relatives? Where`s daddy?

JASON OSHINS, DEFENSE ATTORNEY: Well, listen, and that`s a solid question, Nancy. And concerning the fact that --

GRACE: I always am suspicious when you start off with, that`s a good question, Nancy. Go ahead. What`s your answer?

OSHINS: You are an expert at asking the questions.

GRACE: Stall, stall.

OSHINS: And here`s the thing. There`s a divorce going on. Obviously, we know that any time there`s a divorce that precedes a missing person. Clearly, all of our interest is piqued to think that he is the prime suspect.

GRACE: He`s not a suspect.

OSHINS: I understand that. But that`s the nature of an investigation. I understand he hasn`t been named specifically.

GRACE: Let me help you.

OSHINS: Go ahead.

GRACE: Let me just steer you back into the middle of the road.

OSHINS: Thank you.

GRACE: Question -- where`s daddy? He wants to get the family back together again, according to the best friend. Why isn`t he out there front and center looking for his wife, begging for help?

OSHINS: I think he might be concerned that he is, though not named as a suspect publicly --

GRACE: So.

OSHINS: -- when, in fact, he is one and he`s concerned about being positioned --

GRACE: About himself? OK, A. Scott Bolden. Let me give you a swing at the ball. You want to tell me even if I`m in a big, humongous, blow-out fight with my husband, the father of my twins, if he goes missing, I`m not on the street looking for him? I`m not in front of every TV camera begging, screaming, crying for help? Why? Where is he?

A. SCOTT BOLDEN, DEFENSE ATTORNEY: Well, I think he`s been interviewed by the police. And I believe he`s got a lawyer. And he is free to be out on the street leading the charge. He`s got four children by this beautiful woman, and despite the difficulties, despite the fact that he may not like her new life, she was moving on and he wasn`t.

He`s probably torn but more importantly, he ought to be leading that charge. Doesn`t mean he`s guilty or not because we really don`t know what happened to Karen Swift. But I don`t think you can read anything negative into the fact that her son is leading the charge and not her soon-to-be ex- husband.

GRACE: I don`t really mean any negative in that. I`m concerned that if the husband is so in love and wants to get back together, where is he? I don`t see him. He`s AWOL in this whole thing.

I want to go back to the friend, Jenny Gurien. Mommy texted her several times before she went missing. Jenny, about Karen`s running habits. Would she drive her car somewhere, get out and then run? I`ve done that before if I want to go to a particular park or wherever. Or would she just put on her running shoes and walk out the door and start running there?

JENNY GURIEN, KAREN SWIFT`S FRIEND: When I used to live across the street from her, she and I would get up in the morning and we would exercise on the road. But after I moved away, she had started going to the "y" to run and then she did a lot of 5Ks. And she really enjoyed doing that.

GRACE: OK. Let me ask you another question. So she would work out at the club. She did 5Ks. But if she were just running for exercise she`d just step out the door and start running, it`s fine. I`m interpreting. Jenny, another question, when she ran, did she typically take a cell phone with her?

GURIEN: Karen always had her cell phone on her.

GRACE: OK. All right. Next question, Jenny, would she run super early in the morning, before the family was up? Was that her M.O. or would she wait until the children got to school and then run and do all of her business?

GURIEN: Sometimes if David was home, she would leave the girls with him and get up early and try to get to the "y" and back home before they woke up and then -- but with them in school, she`d drop them off at school and then she would go.

GRACE: OK.

GURIEN: And do her workout.

GRACE: Last question for this moment. Jenny, where the car was found, was it on the way to the "y"?

GURIEN: It was facing the opposite direction.

GRACE: It was facing the opposite direction. And do you have any idea what time the "y" -- are you saying YMCA or YWCA because you can work out on both? Which one?

GURIEN: YMCA.

GRACE: YMCA. Do you know what time it opens in the morning?

GURIEN: I do not know.

GRACE: OK. Liz, get on the phone right now, please. Call the "y." Find out what time they open up. Can you do that, Liz? Yes, no, maybe. Good.

Alright, to Pat Brown, criminal profiler, author of the profiler. Let me repeat again, hubby not a suspect. OK, Pat brown, weigh in.

PAT BROWN, CRIMINAL PROFILER: Well, Nancy. One thing that bothers me is the car is facing home which means she should have gone in some place. Where did she go? Was there any evidence of her, maybe stopping at a store or doing something before she returned if that`s what happened?

Secondly, the clothes really bother me. The clothes are supposedly in some bushes. If you are a serial killer and you see this woman by the side of the road with her flat tire you`re going to do one of two things. Grab her and drag her into your vehicle and drive away with her or you`re going to attack her right there and when you find clothes you also find the body because he`s not going to bother to leave the clothes and take her body along.

So that concerns me that this is a staged crime scene as opposed to something occurring right at that place.

GRACE: And we`re trying to find out, Pat, if those clothes are related. Also very interesting, Pat, the car had been turned back the other way.

OK. Out to the lines. Pete in California. Hi, Pete. What`s your question?

PETE, CALLER, CALIFORNIA: Why do you people automatically assume the hubby did it? I mean how do we know Karen didn`t have a boyfriend and ran away with him?

GRACE: OK. Hold on just a moment, Pete in California. Don`t let him go. Have I said ten times already the husband is not a suspect? Pete, have I told you that? Yes, I have. So why your saying I assume he`s the husband -- he`s the suspect? He`s not a suspect. He is the husband recently filed for divorce in the three weeks before she goes missing. Still living in the same home in a different bedroom. According to our reports, does not like the way she dresses now, which is t-shirt and jeans. Doesn`t like her going to her friends` home. That`s all I know right now. And I know he was there when she goes missing. That`s what I know. So, Pete in California, nobody is saying he`s a suspect. So do you have another question or do you just want to second verse, same as the first.

PETE: How do we know she didn`t run away with a boyfriend? She didn`t just fly the goop?

GRACE: A boyfriend, a boyfriend. Why do men always believe it`s a boyfriend?

To T.J. Ward, private investigator. You know, T.J., high profile investigator, worked on the Natalee Holloway case. T.J., why does everybody always assume the mom is some tramp that she`s run away with a boyfriend? What boyfriend? I don`t know anything about a boyfriend, T.J.

T.J. WARD, PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR: Well, in a criminal investigation, the husband is always looked at first and then they work their -- they weed their way out. I think in this case we need to go back in time a little bit. There was a phone call and a text message apparently of urgency around 11:00, 11:30 as Jenny said. So we need to back up there. There was something going on back then that we need to find out what the piece of the puzzle is.

I believe her cell phone is going to be a major player in this from the triangulation log from days before or what`s going on now or who she made calls to or text messages and googling to see who she was with.

GRACE: We are taking your calls. The mother of four, a beautiful young mom of four vanishes literally out of her own bed. Her 9-year-old girl lay sleeping beside her. Where is Karen Johnson Swift?

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Police are searching for a missing mom of four.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Karen Swift went missing from her home that`s right down this road.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Seems to have vanished without a trace.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Preston Swift has been making a desperate plea for help ever since his mother vanished. Preston remembers the last time he saw her.

PRESTON SWIFT, KAREN SWIFT`S SON: We met up at a college football game, me and my family.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Dozens of volunteers have been scouring the woods near swift`s Dyersburg home. So far, investigators have found her abandoned SUV.

SWIFT: If my mother is out there we are very worried. Very concerned.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Police have searched the area with dogs and helicopters. But there`s been no sign of the missing mom.

SWIFT: If anyone has any information about her, please, please let us know. And I love you, mom.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Nothing appeared to be out of the ordinary.

SWIFT: Everything seemed OK.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The single mother of four children disappeared after she picked up her daughter from a Halloween sleepover around 1:30 a.m. because her daughter was not feeling well.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

GRACE: We are live and taking your calls. Where is mom of four Karen Johnson Swift?

To Sherry Blake, Doctor Sherry Blake, clinical psychologist, author of "the single married woman." Sherry Blake, I find it very unusual that they are in the middle of a heated divorce but daddy is still living in the house.

SHERRY BLAKE, PH.D., CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST, AUTHOR, THE SINGLE MARRIED WOMAN: You know, that is unusual. Unfortunately, that`s happening more and more with couples, but either way, there`s a lot of history. A lot of unknowns. My concern goes out with the children and what is the -- what is the tone in that house with dad there and everyone knowing they`re getting the divorce. What`s really going on?

GRACE: We are taking your calls. Janet in Florida. Hi, Janet. What`s your question?

JANET, CALLER, FLORIDA: Hi, Nancy. I`m just --

GRACE: Hi, dear.

JANET: Were their children in the home and -- I mean, younger children, and were they interviewed by police yet?

GRACE: So David Lore, with the knowledge the 6-year-old and 9-year- old were home, were all the children in the home that night questioned by police? Do we know?

DAVID LORE, CRIME REPORTER, HUFFINGTON POST: No, we don`t know if they`ve all been questioned. The sheriff did say today that the husband is cooperating with the investigation. So I would assume that they probably spoke with some of the children. You know, one of the biggest problems from our side has been getting the police to even discuss the case. I know for two weeks now we`ve been calling him and calling him and we can`t even get a return phone call to find out what the status of everything is.

GRACE: Back to Bonnie Druker, our producer on the story. David Lore says daddy is cooperating. What do you know about that?

BONNIE DRUKER, NANCY GRACE PRODUCER: Well, we understand that he has spoken to police. Police have also looked for the -- looked through the house and recently, just this weekend, he stopped having the police looking through his house. We do know that he`s talked to police. We know that the family has given DNA. And so far no one has taken a polygraph test.

GRACE: Nobody has taken a poly.

Joining me right now, Doctor Leigh Vinoccur, emergency room physician. Doctor Leigh, thank you for being with us. You know, we`ve -- her car, a white Nissan, was found with a flat tire. What evidence, forensic evidence, would you be, looking for Doctor Vinoccur, in the car?

DOCTOR LEIGH VINOCCUR, M.D., EMERGENCY ROOM PHYSICIAN: Well, you would look for DNA evidence, blood evidence. I mean she`s going to have DNA in the car. It`s her DNA, but is there blood in the car? You know, why would there be blood in the car, that`s something? Evidence like that. If she was sexually assaulted, you would look for things like semen and things.

GRACE: Out to the lines. Matt in Canada. Hi, Matt. What`s your question?

MATT, CALLER, CANADA: So, I just heard that reporter say that they stopped searching the husband`s house. He doesn`t want them to search the house. I mean that sounds like he`s guilty or something. Is there any way police can just keep him in jail until he talks? He obviously knows something.

GRACE: You know, Matt in Canada, it`s not that easy in our country. In America, we have the constitution and the bill of rights. And under our system of jurisprudence, you are only arrested with probable cause. That`s not what police think probable cause. It`s what a judge thinks are probable cause to make a search, sometimes an arrest. So long story short, he cannot be held over 72 hours without a formal charge.

Unleash the lawyers. Jason Oshins, Scott Bolden. All right. Scott Bolden, nobody is taking a poly. Why?

BOLDEN: Because they`re not forced to take a polygraph. It`s a choice by the family members.

GRACE: What?

BOLDEN: They aren`t required to take a polygraph.

GRACE: So.

BOLDEN: If I`m his lawyer, if I`m David Swift`s lawyer, I`m telling him that he doesn`t have to take that polygraph. They`re not reliable. And, quite frankly, they aren`t admissible in court.

GRACE: Well, Jason Oshins, as I recall, if both parties stipulate up front to the poly, it is in fact, admissible, isn`t it?

OSHINS: Nancy, I`m not going to subject if this were my client, I`m not going to subject him to --

GRACE: That`s a yes or no question. If both parties stipulate up front a polygraph is in fact, admissible in court is it not?

OSHINS: It could be. In this jurisdiction I`m not familiar with that. Other jurisdictions, it might very well be.

GRACE: OK. I`ll Q&A with myself, Jason, it is. If both parties stipulate up front. Just like in your jurisdiction. OK. What were you saying, Jason?

OSHINS: Nancy, we`re not going to go ahead and focus, as his defense accounts, I`m not going to go ahead and let him be the subject of --

GRACE: We`re not? Who is "we"?

OSHINS: We`re not going to do that.

GRACE: Who is "we"? You and Scott?

OSHINS: Sorry, Nancy.

GRACE: All right, fine. Here`s the reality. T.J. Ward, he cannot be held behind bars until he tells what he knows if he knows anything. Why, T.J.?

WARD: You have to have probable cause to take before a judge to hold him. And (inaudible) that`s a contradiction and so on and so forth. They have to have probable cause to take him into custody.

GRACE: Back to Matt Zarrell. Matt, I want to run through very quickly what we know about the timeline from that morning. What time did the daughter wake up and find out mommy is not there?

MATTHEW ZARRELL, NANCY GRACE PRODUCER: Daughter woke up at 6:00 a.m. The 9-year-old woke up at 6:00 a.m.

GRACE: And do we know what happened then? And where was daddy when the 9-year-old woke up?

ZARRELL: Dad was in the house. Dad was actually the one who reported her missing to the cops. He has cooperated. And, Nancy, I want to make one thing clear. The searches of the home have been via consent. Cops have searched the home multiple times. The first time was consent. The second they got a warrant just because for procedural reasons. They are saying the family has cooperated completely.

GRACE: I want to go back to Carol Johnson, joining us exclusively from Walnut Ridge. This is Karen`s mom, Carol Johnson. She`s also taking your calls. Carol, were they having marriage problems, and what was the nature of the problems?

CAROL JOHNSON, KAREN SWIFT`S MOTHER: That`s a question that I cannot answer. I mean, I wasn`t there. Obviously, there was something going on. I mean, she filed for divorce. You don`t just go file for divorce.

GRACE: Did she talk to you about that? She didn`t talk to you about that?

JOHNSON: No.

GRACE: Everybody, we are taking your calls.

To Nancy in Texas. Hi, Nancy. What`s your question?

NANCY, CALLER, TEXAS: Hello, Nancy Grace. You`re wonderful. My question was about the car. I was going to ask was there blood found in it? But I also like to - since that was answered, I would like to add, have they set a certain perimeter or has anybody made plans, might the public plea or any kind of public --

GRACE: Good questions. To David Lore, crime reporter, Huffington Post, what`s the perimeter and I know that the son has made a public plea. Go ahead David.

LORE: You know they`ve conducted a multiple search as they focus in around where the vehicle was found. They focused out by where their home is. And there were also search conducted at a neighbors, a neighbor who was been accused of poisoned her dog. So, they went to search his home and his vehicle looking for evidence on the case.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Swift was last seen about a mile from her home.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Karen`s cell phone was not found in the car.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: We had helicopters in this area. We had blood hounds. We had numerous law enforcements on the ground, investigators.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Officers combed a wooded area near Swift`s home in search of clues.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Looking for unknown tire tracks, unknown items might be in the area that possibly, you know, could be left behind or either by her or someone else.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

GRACE: We are taking your calls. Where is Karen Johnson Swift? She goes missing in the middle of the night as she`s sleeping with her 9-year- old girl.

To Doctor Sherry Blake. Now, my children sleep with me almost every night. Doesn`t start that way, but ends up that way somehow. And when I`m not there, when they wake up in the morning, they get very, very upset. Even if both of them are there, if I`m not there in the middle, they really get upset. What effect is this having on the 9-year-old? I know the 6- year-old doesn`t want to eat without her mommy.

BLAKE: I am sure it has been emotionally traumatic. There`s no way, you know, just think about it. You go to sleep with mom, and all of a sudden mom is missing in action, you know, and it is very hard on children and they have a hard time expressing feelings. I`m hoping they`re getting help for the children. I`m hoping that they`re working with a licensed psychologist or qualified therapist. Because sometimes it is not always what`s said, it is sometimes what`s not said that you`ll find out the information. So we don`t know. Was mom upset when she went to bed? We have no idea, given she talked to a friend earlier that night. My heart goes out to the children. And you can tell the son is upset.

GRACE: To Jenny Gurien, Karen`s best friend, what`s your message tonight, jenny, to those listening?

GURIEN: My message tonight would be that wherever Karen`s at right now, it is not by choice. She did not leave her children. She would not leave. So whatever has happened, it was a foul play. She would not leave.

GRACE: And I have got the answer about the "y", Jenny, on Sundays, doesn`t open until 1:00 p.m., so she is not on her way to work out.

Let`s stop and remember Army Private Bobby Mejia, 23, Saginaw, Michigan, killed in Iran. Two purple hearts. Loved music, children, friends, drawing. Wanted to be a cartoonist. Always wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. Leaves behind a grieving mother Mileva, a stepfather Robin who raised him, Sisters Crystal and Sparkle. Brother Christopher. Bobby Mejia, American hero.

Thanks to our guests, but especially to you for being with us. See you tomorrow night, 8:00 sharp, Eastern. When we in our own way will be seeking justice.

And until then, good night, friend.

END

Thanks for the transcript, I missed Nancy.

I wonder why she didn't mention that Karen herself had been at a party at "The Farms" as it was reported at the beginning of this case. Nancy said a few times that Karen got up and went to pick up her daughter.

Anyway, I find this off:


Assuming Karen went to a party at "The Farms" that night... where was she at the time of those calls? Was she at the party already? Was she still at the home? Was her husband mad that she was going to a party without him?

Either way, she picked up her daughter after those calls were made, and she made it home.

So, whatever happened that night happened after those calls, and after she brought her daughter to the house. Which leads to the question of whether she drove somewhere else afterwards, and why would she.

I hope police subpoena the husband's phone records, too.

Karen Swift Search Continues on Saturday


http://www.stategazette.com/story/1786266.html


I wonder why they don't halt deer hunting in the area for the search. Is hunting still more important than finding a missing person?

good question..

Nancy Grace, right now....searchers searching river bed with side scan sonar. White Lake 5-6 feet deep.

Six area rescue squads join in search for evidence in Swift case
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Dyersburg State Gazette

 ::snipping2::
The Obion River and the White's Lake area (off of the Great River Road) were designated as areas of interest by the sheriff's department and some searchers started their morning at those locations. Searchers used boats on both the river and the lake and some were equipped with sonar to detect shapes underwater. Other boats used drag sets, which are a row of large hooks connected to a weighted piece of metal and dragged across the bed of a body of water.
 ::snipping2::

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1786419.html  (http://www.stategazette.com/story/1786419.html)

IMO, there is no way that this Mom (who picked up her sick 9 year old from a slumber  party) left that child in the middle of the night to go somewhere. It makes no sense that she would have left her sick child. I think Daddy needs to be looked at closer, jmho

Thinking that her daughter should really have been sick to have the mother pick her up from the Halloween sleepover. Chances are nobody put her up to it, and she was really sick.

So, the mother being at her home, at that time and under the circumstances, could not have been planned.

So, whatever happened between hubby and her must've been a spur of the moment thing, or something planned that was just waiting for the right moment to carry on.

Being divorced the first time may have been rough on him, giving up the house and paying child support. So, maybe he decided that being married was better than what he got on his first divorce.

When the second divorce thing came up in October, he already knew how miserable he was the first time they divorced. So, he possibly thought that this time he would have the upper hand, and waited for the right moment to get rid of her.

I can visualize him waking her up that night over something, doing the bad deed, then getting rid of her. He had enough time to drive somewhere, dispose of her body, then drive back home... but leave the car parked by the side of the road near the home, and "make" a flat tire. He then walked or jogged his way home.

He cleaned up, and waited for someone to miss mommy and so on...

This is my wild theory. Forensics should be coming this week or next, hopefully they can help police solve this case, and find Karen.

I hope they found footprints around the car that would tell a story...

Transcript - Aired November 21, 2011

Tonight bombshell... and blah blah blah (Nancy speech.)

"UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Police are searching for a missing mom of four who was last seen inside her home.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: New evidence seized in the desperate search for missing Tennessee mom of four Karen Swift. Major developments in the mystery.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Please, please let us know.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: She was putting the final touches on a Halloween party for the girls.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Investigators searched this wooded area a few miles from her home.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Preston says nothing appeared to be out of the ordinary.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Everything seemed OK.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Later found Swift`s vehicle, a white 2004 Nissan Murado, with a flat tire.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: We`re not ruling out foul play. We`re looking for any unknown tire tracks, any unknown items that might be in the area.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Friends report some of Karen`s clothing was found in the car.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Gray zip-up like someone would use for jogging.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: She did everything on her phone.

GRACE: In her text message, she said, Call me please, with a exclamation point.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Every day that we look, we are adding something to the investigation.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The search for Karen Swift remains in full swing.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I love you, Mom.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

GRACE: Good evening. I`m Nancy Grace. I want to thank you for being with us. Bombshell tonight. Upscale Memphis-area neighborhood reeling after a beautiful young mom of four vanishes without a trace. At this hour, investigators dragging a nearby riverbed for Mommy`s body, using high-tech sidescan sonar and heavy-duty dragging equipment.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Karen Swift, missing.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Disappeared in the middle of the night.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Four children left in the wake.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: My mom and my little sister went to sleep. They both got in their pajamas, went to sleep.

GRACE: But when the 9-year-old wakes up, Mommy`s gone.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The search for Karen Swift remains in full swing.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Her SUV found abandoned with a flat tire, half a mile from home.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: There were three text messages, and the last one was, Call me right away, with an exclamation point.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Her cell phone gone.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Dad was in the house. Dad was actually the one who reported her missing to the cops.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I can tell you that he did not want the divorce.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: We are very worried, very concerned.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: She`s nowhere to be found.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I wish I knew where my daughter is. I wish I`d know if my daughter is safe.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

GRACE: Where is the gorgeous young mom of four at this hour? A nearby riverbed being dragged and high-tech sidescan sonar being used, looking for Karen`s body. She goes missing seemingly in the middle of the night, this in the middle of a highly contentious divorce.

The 9-year-old little girl calls home from a sleepover wanting Mommy to pick her up. She does, 1:45 AM. She and the 9-year-old little girl go to bed together in the same bed, but when the girl wakes up that morning, Mommy is gone.

We are taking your calls. Straight out to Bonnie Druker, joining us from New York. Bonnie, what`s the latest? What can you tell me about this riverbed being dragged?

BONNIE DRUKER, NANCY GRACE PRODUCER: Nancy, this is a massive search, certainly the biggest search since Karen Swift went missing. Fifty people are involved, six rescue squads. The river, the lake, the banks are being searched, sonar equipment and dragging equipment. And Nancy Grace, you and I both know that unless there were some kind of tip, the cops would not be looking at that water tonight.

GRACE: With us is Gary Peterson, death scene investigator, search coordinator. Gary, thank you for being with us. Explain the process of dragging a riverbed. And what is sidescan sonar?

((SNIPPED FOR LENGTH))

END
http://edition.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/1111/21/ng.01.html

MODERATORS!!!!!

Please delete my last message, PLEASE!!

Something went wrong with it. ARG!!

What went wrong?  I see you included the link.  ::bee::

As usual, Muffy beat me to it, LOL!  Nothing gets past Muffy!  Thanks for being so diligent!

YW Klaas.  I try.  But I can't begin to keep up with you.   ::MonkeyHaHa::

TY TY TY!!!

I can describe it as stalling the browser when I got to it, then repeat previous posts inside it many times, or just other parts of the page over and over and over... like in a loop.

Maybe someone else may try to copy/paste. I won't do it cause it freaked me out!!!

Thanks for deleting it, everything works now.

 ::santawink::

I have added it back but snipped it alot so it's not so long.  Let me know if it's causing any problems for you  ::MonkeyCool::

Maybe it was too long. But, I thought that it would give me a warning if it was.

Either way, it looks fine now. Thank you.

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1788118.html
Sheriff's dept. provides update on search for Swift
November 25, 2011

Update article & some interesting comments.

Videos at link.

http://www.wreg.com/news/wreg-the-search-continues-for-missing-mother-karen-swift-20111205,0,4951805.story
Search Continues for Missing Mother
December 5, 2011

FAST FACTS:

    Karen Swift has been missing for over a month
    Investigators are looking over lab results of possible evidence
    Sheriff’s Office is still conducting interviews


(Dyersburg, TN 12/5/2011) Lab results are back on possible evidence that may lead the Dyer County Sheriff's Office to answers in the disappearance of Karen Swift.

Sheriff Jeff Box insists they are making progress in the case and they are still searching for swift even though no one is in custody, they haven’t named any suspects, and no one knows where swift is.

Mother of 4 Karen Swift has been missing for over a month.
More...

An article about three of Karen's friends, and how Karen had messaged them about jobs she was taking, and her life, right before she disappeared.

Police has nothing new, other than requesting info from the public.

(http://www.stategazette.com/photos/15/87/71/1587711-M.jpg)

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1792485.html

It is not known if this is Karen, but I am bringing it forward due to the close proximity.

Sheriff's Department recovers unidentified body
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Dyersburg State Gazette
http://www.stategazette.com/story/1793429.html  (http://www.stategazette.com/story/1793429.html)
 ::snipping2::
The Dyer County Sheriff's Department recovered an unidentified body on Saturday afternoon. The sheriff's department is only releasing limited information at this time, refusing to speculate even on the sex of the deceased.

"All we can confirm at this time is that we have recovered an unidentified body that will have to be identified by the medical examiner's office," said Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box. "The body found was in the early stages of decomposition."

According to Box, the medical examiner's office from Memphis has been dispatched to the scene and most likely will have results by Monday. The body was found at an undisclosed location in Dyer County sometime on Saturday. Box would not confirm at what time the body was found or who made the discovery. Although Box is not stating where the body was found, a roadblock was set up by sheriff's deputies at the fork in the road at Burnt Mill Road and Harness Road off Highway 78.

Speculation began to swirl that the body was possibly that of Karen Swift, the missing mother of four who was last seen on Saturday, Oct. 30. Box would not confirm that it was Swift or anyone else until the medical examiner's office has identified the body and the next of kin have been notified.
 ::snipping2::

A roadblock was set up at the fork in the road at Burnt Mill Road and Harness Road off Highway 78. Sheriff Box would not confirm what other roads were blocked or the location where the body was discovered.

 http://www.stategazette.com/story/1793429/photo/1589183.html (http://www.stategazette.com/story/1793429/photo/1589183.html)

This is only about 3.6 miles from Willie Johnston rd:
Driving directions to Burnt Mill Rd, Dyersburg, TN 38024
   
Willie Johnson Rd
Dyersburg, TN 38024
   
   1. Head north on Willie Johnson Rd toward Harness Rd    
   
   
0.3 mi
   2. Take the 1st left onto Harness Rd    
   
   
2.0 mi
   3. Turn right to stay on Harness Rd    
   
   
1.0 mi
   4. Turn right onto Burnt Mill Rd    
   
   
0.2 mi
   
Burnt Mill Rd
Dyersburg, TN 38024
   
http://maps.google.com/maps?saddr=Willie+Johnson+Road,+Dyersburg,+TN&daddr=Burnt+Mill+Rd,+Dyersburg,+TN+38024&hl=en&sll=36.130284,-89.428153&sspn=0.018475,0.02841&geocode=Fe1UJwIdBv2r-imtPLtHeCd5iDGVGJyVWvcscQ%3BFf1YJwIdHmyr-ikTMLLw-Nh4iDHnfpf-UkGxWQ&vpsrc=0&mra=ls&t=h&z=14  (http://maps.google.com/maps?saddr=Willie+Johnson+Road,+Dyersburg,+TN&daddr=Burnt+Mill+Rd,+Dyersburg,+TN+38024&hl=en&sll=36.130284,-89.428153&sspn=0.018475,0.02841&geocode=Fe1UJwIdBv2r-imtPLtHeCd5iDGVGJyVWvcscQ%3BFf1YJwIdHmyr-ikTMLLw-Nh4iDHnfpf-UkGxWQ&vpsrc=0&mra=ls&t=h&z=14)

Locals are stating on FB (just do a search for Karen Swift and click on public posts)
that the body was found by the cemetery and a cross off HWY 78:

Mindy Justice: Off of 78 by the cross in the cemetery

Sharon Simmons Bell
ok a body has been found out like you go to the lake near the crosses, still not sure if it is Karen Swift
57 minutes ago ·


 https://www.facebook.com/search/results.php?q=karen%20swift&type=eposts&init=quick&tas=0.5237234040258504  (https://www.facebook.com/search/results.php?q=karen%20swift&type=eposts&init=quick&tas=0.5237234040258504)

 http://www.stategazette.com/story/1793438.html (http://www.stategazette.com/story/1793438.html)

Sheriff's Department recovers unidentified body
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Dyersburg State Gazette
 ::snipping2::


According to Box, the medical examiner's office will most likely have identification results by Monday as well as a cause of death. As of Saturday around 7 p.m. the body had not been moved from its original location as the sheriff's department is waiting on the arrival of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Violent Crime Response Team. The body was found at an undisclosed location in Dyer County sometime on Saturday. Box would not confirm at what time the body was found or who made the discovery. Although Box is not stating where the body was found, two roadblocks were set up by sheriff's deputies approximately one mile apart from one another. The first roadblock was located where Burnt Mill Road meets Harness Road off Highway 78 and a second roadblock was located where Craig Road and Harness Road meet.
 ::snipping2::

Cartfly, it sounds like it could be Karen, doesn't it?

Yes, sadly it really does Muffy..... such a beautiful woman with a family that loves her dearly. I can't understand how someone could take an others life.  ::MonkeyMad::
Prayers to her family and friends as they await confirmation.

TAKE WITH A GRAIN OF SALT:

From topix:

A county cop that was off duty today said the body was found in a shallow grave at the cemetery on harness road by the cross. He said it was Karen. He said the grounds keeper found her, thanks to all the water we have had and the fact it was a shallow grave. The news was wrong, harness is off of 78 hwy that runs from dyersburg to lake co.

 http://www.topix.com/forum/city/dyersburg-tn/TPEFN3AOO4OPKK8JL/p2 (http://www.topix.com/forum/city/dyersburg-tn/TPEFN3AOO4OPKK8JL/p2)

At 2840 Harness Rd there is a huge cross and what looks like a clearing on google maps. I can not see much on the satellite view.
 http://maps.google.com/maps?saddr=Willie+Johnson+Road,+Dyersburg,+TN&daddr=36.1281614,-89.4178282+to:Burnt+Mill+Rd,+Dyersburg,+TN+38024&hl=en&ll=36.132348,-89.42688&spn=0.000577,0.000888&sll=36.128048,-89.419012&sspn=0.004619,0.007102&geocode=Fe1UJwIdBv2r-imtPLtHeCd5iDGVGJyVWvcscQ%3BFaFFJwIdnJer-il9ElUxXth4iDG6Jl5pcv0ZNg%3BFf1YJwIdHmyr-ikTMLLw-Nh4iDHnfpf-UkGxWQ&vpsrc=6&mra=dpe&mrsp=1&sz=17&via=1&t=h&z=20 (http://maps.google.com/maps?saddr=Willie+Johnson+Road,+Dyersburg,+TN&daddr=36.1281614,-89.4178282+to:Burnt+Mill+Rd,+Dyersburg,+TN+38024&hl=en&ll=36.132348,-89.42688&spn=0.000577,0.000888&sll=36.128048,-89.419012&sspn=0.004619,0.007102&geocode=Fe1UJwIdBv2r-imtPLtHeCd5iDGVGJyVWvcscQ%3BFaFFJwIdnJer-il9ElUxXth4iDG6Jl5pcv0ZNg%3BFf1YJwIdHmyr-ikTMLLw-Nh4iDHnfpf-UkGxWQ&vpsrc=6&mra=dpe&mrsp=1&sz=17&via=1&t=h&z=20)

(https://s-hphotos-sjc1.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc6/248466_100675683360348_100002537491891_3360_7246706_n.jpg)

This is Karen's business facebook for her landscaping:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002537491891&sk=wall  (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002537491891&sk=wall)

The police will have the autopsy and identification by Monday, according to reports.

IF the rumors of Karen being buried in a shallow grave, in cemetery property are true... then, we should ask ...who could do something like that? Obviously whoever did it, wanted for her not to be found, to be mistaken by someone who legitimately was buried there.

Some reports say the body is in early stages of decomposition, some say the body is badly decomposed. Since she's been missing for about a month, there should still be some forensics that can help police nab the perp.

This can also be Holly Bobo, or other missing women we talked about before. But, being that Karen's home is less than 5 miles from where the body was found, chances are it's her.

Thanks for the updates, monkeys.

Here are three more links to local news:

http://www.kfvs12.com/story/16298132/body-found-off-of-highway-79

http://www.abc24.com/news/local/story/A-Body-Found-in-Dyersburg-Could-Be-of-Missing/7CIst0CCLU-8IlPkBJ_xfQ.cspx

http://www.wmctv.com/story/16297845/body-found-off-of-highway-79

The husband David looks like the obvious choice but I just can't get past that John Hogshooter guy. I can't imagine if this was the hubby and these poor children end up loosing both parents.

Anyone know if Karen had any tatoos? I haven't seen anything on the missing posters and wondered if maybe she did have one.

Thanks, I was just reading about this. I have not had a lot of online time this weekend.

Body Found in Dyer County

http://www.wreg.com/news/wreg-body-found-in-dyer-county-20111210,0,2631866.story  (http://www.wreg.com/news/wreg-body-found-in-dyer-county-20111210,0,2631866.story)
 ::snipping2::

(Dyersburg, TN 12/10/11) - The Dyer County Sheriff's Department says a badly decomposed body belonging to a woman was found on Harness Road Saturday afternoon.

Body Found in Dyersburg
http://www.myfoxmemphis.com/dpp/news/local/body-found-in-dyersburg-rpt-20111211  (http://www.myfoxmemphis.com/dpp/news/local/body-found-in-dyersburg-rpt-20111211)
Updated: Sunday, 11 Dec 2011, 10:29 PM CST
Published : Sunday, 11 Dec 2011, 9:38 PM CST


Memphis, Tn - Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box says they recovered an unidentified body in tall weeds near Bledsoe Cemetery, off Harness Road in Dyersburg early Saturday afternoon.

"Frost and winter conditions killed the vegetation, making the body visible within a few feet," said Box.

Harness Road is off Highway 78.

Crime scene tape was still draped around the weeded area on Sunday, marking the spot where the body was recovered.

Before the vegetation was eliminated, Box said, "no one could've seen the body from where it was at."

The body was found less than five miles from Karen Swift's Dyersburg home. The 44-year-old mother of four was last seen by her husband at her home on Oct. 30.

"We plan to rely on dental records to help identify the body," said Box.
 ::snipping2::

This is not an official announcement from LE but a post from the FB page for Karen posted Sunday December 12, 2011:

Karen Swift Missing Mom of 4

Karen's Mother just reported that they have notified her that the remains found Saturday ARE Karen's. She asks most for prayers for her Grandchildren. PLEASE do not make any comments other than PRAYERS for Karen, her children, her family, and her friends. What is needed most RIGHT NOW is those prayers.
Like · · Share · 16 minutes ago ·

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Karen-Swift-Missing-Mom-of-4/267691069942366  (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Karen-Swift-Missing-Mom-of-4/267691069942366)

http://www.wmctv.com/story/16305856/miss

Whoever committed the murder must've driven her car.

The car's tracks showed the vehicle was just turned around, and it was posed to appear headed North.

A spur of the moment thing doesn't seem likely, to me.

I mean, who would snatch her after she stopped with "SPLIT" tires, kill her, leave the clothes (easily visible) within a short distance from the car, then drive her body to the cemetery grounds and bury her there?

Regardless of who did it, it seems the split tires, the clothes, the turning around of the car, are steps taken to try to cover murder.

IMO

(http://kfvs12.images.worldnow.com/images/16298132_BG3.jpg)

Well, the area is not exactly in the cemetery, but on the side. Reminds me of Caylee's resting place.

The cemetery could mean a couple of different things...

1.  The killer wanted to place the body where tracking dogs would get confused and no one would find the discovery of bones as odd...cemetery is the perfect spot.
2.  The killer wanted to give Karen a 'proper' burial and felt some 'love' for her.

Hopefully, there will be some type of forensics to point LE toward her killer.

Link for the pic above: http://www.kfvs12.com/story/16298132/unidentified-body-found-in-dyer-county

I'm moving this thread to "Missing Found Deceased". 

My condolences to the family and friends of Karen Johnson Swift.   ::MonkeyAngel::

Maybe both.

Maybe someone thought of #1... before the crime.

hmm...digging a grave takes time.  Even a shallow grave.  So, was the grave pre-dug or did someone have to take the time after the murder to dig a grave?  That would give a clue as to who might've dug the grave.

How sad her poor children ::MonkeyNoNo::

http://www.cnn.com/2011/12/12/justice/tennessee-missing-mother/
Body found in rural Tennessee identified as missing mother of 4
December 12, 2011

(http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/dam/assets/111212080829-karen-swift-story-top.jpg)
Karen Swift disappeared October 30; her body was found Saturday in western Tennessee

(CNN) -- Authorities Monday identified a body found in a rural western Tennessee county as that of Karen Swift, a mother of four last seen six weeks ago, a state investigator said.

Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge John Mehr told CNN that the body was discovered Saturday in Dyer County.

"It's very emotional for Mr. Swift and the family," Timothy Naifeh, a lawyer for the woman's husband, David Swift, said in a statement.

"They're asking at least for this period of time to have some privacy -- it's time for grieving and it's time for mourning. It's heartbreaking and it's very, very sad."
 ::snipping2::
Her car, a 2004 white Nissan Murano, was later recovered on a main highway in northern Dyer County with a flat tire, according to police.

Her disappearance prompted a massive ground and aerial search, Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box noted in early November. The missing woman's brother, Jeffrey Johnson, told HLN's Nancy Grace on November 21 that authorities also searched the Obion River after finding some old clothes nearby.

In addition to two older children, Swift leaves behind 6- and 9-year-old girls. Even weeks ago, Johnson said that those girls were "in shock" with their mother gone.

"We're doing everything we can to be together right now," Preston Swift, an older son of Swift, added November 22 to HLN's Jane Velez-Mitchell. "My father and I have been doing everything we can to help (his two youngest siblings) deal with the situation."

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1793716.html
Body identified as that of Swift, case being investigated a homicide
December 12, 2011

Nancy Grace is covering the story now. very sad

From that same story:


The word used is "concealed", not buried. And, I know that news sites make lots of mistakes, so will wait for more in-depth news to see what's the final word on this.

...and...


"Injuries" meaning more than one and serious enough to cause death.

...and...


Kudzu could've also made a few scratches on the person who put her there. I hope the PD visually examined the hubby, and the Hogshooter dood.

There was enough time, from around 2:00am to the time she was reported missing, for all the stuff that went on.

IMO.

Is there anything new on Nancy?

In-between her "bombshell!!" and "breaking news" announcements that usually don't turn up as such, sometimes she gets a little information that other news reporters don't.

this is incredibly sad. so senseless..I feel so bad for her and her family.

Seems this rumor may be true, about the grounds keeper discovering the body.


http://www.kait8.com/story/16305856/miss

Went to Nancy Grace transcript page, and there is nothing that has not been discussed here.

Good read, though:

http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/1112/12/ng.01.html

Similar missing women cases most possibly not related, but women in the area are spooked. Don't blame them.

http://www.kfvs12.com/story/16318363/women-react-to-large-number-of-missing-persons-cases

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1794468.html
Dyer County man describes finding Swift's body
December 14, 2011

(http://www.stategazette.com/photos/15/91/28/1591288-H.jpg)

The body found near the "X". Police raked and cut the weeds, which looked like the weeds in the background.

I can't see how anyone would just dump the victim over the weeds and the body not being seen during the first few days after she went missing. I know kudzu grows fast, but to grow over her would've taken a few days.

Unless the murderer made his way through the already overgrown weeds and did his thing.

----

In my local news, the reports say that there is a serial killer targeting blonds.

IF that is the case, then the circle of confidence may be getting smaller for the killer... because how did he know Karen would be going back out so early that morning?

http://www.ibtimes.com/articles/267305/20111214/karen-swift-murder-family-missing-dyersburg-mom.htm
Karen Swift Murder: Family of Missing Dyersburg Mom Seeking Donations via Facebook
December 14, 2011

The family of Karen Swift announced on Facebook they have set up a memorial fund at the First South Bank in Dyersberg, Tenn., to help pay for funeral expenses. The family asks donors either contact the bank directly or visit the local branch location.
Janet Foley Ross, a friend of Swift's from high school, has also set up a second memorial fund for out-of-state donors.

"If you would like to donate to Karen's fund and you are not local, donations can be mailed to, IberiaBank, 121 SW 3rd Street, Walnut Ridge, AR 72476," she wrote on Karen Swift's missing page on Facebook. "Checks must be made to the name of the account, Janet L Ross for the benefit of Karen Johnson Swift."
 ::snipping2::


https://www.facebook.com/pages/Karen-Swift-Missing-Mom-of-4/267691069942366

Karen Swift Missing Mom of 4
There has been a Karen Swift Memorial set up at First South Bank to help the family pay for funeral expenses ~ 205 East Main Street; Dyersburg, Tennessee 38024 Telephone (731) 288-2800 for anybody whom is interested in donating....Please contact the bank directly or go by the local main or branch location.


https://www.facebook.com/pages/In-Loving-Memory-of-Karen-Swift/206465489434822
In Loving Memory of Karen Swift
Donations to the Swift family info: Donations can be mailed or dropper off at IberiaBank, 121 SW 3rd Street, Walnut Ridge, AR 72476. Checks must be made to the name of the account, Janet L Ross for the benefit of Karen Johnson Swift. There has also been a Karen Swift Memorial set up at First South Bank to help the family pay for funeral expenses; 205 East Main Street; Dyersburg, Tennessee 38024 Telephone (731) 288-2800. Also, at Corning Savings and Loan in Pocahontas, east of Walmart. See Sarah!
I know at christmas time most people dont have much extra money but anything will help this family.

Was reading in another board and there are rumors that the tire on Karen's car had a screw in it, and another puncture... and that the tire was slightly off the rim.

I'm trusting the police is investigating the tire, but there is much discussion on what happened to the tire to get it off the rim.

To me, there could be three reasons why.

First, staging... making it appear as if she tried to remove the tire to change it (though there is no mention of a jack under the car.) She was surprised while doing so by the perpetrator.

Second, the rim naturally got off after the tire went flat and was driven for a distance. The U-Turn where it was found could've made it worse.

Third, it hit something low.

I once saw a car hit a motorcycle right in front of me. On the first hit the motorcycle rider fell off on the pavement, and the motorcycle was pushed forward and it started spinning, then the car hit the  motorcycle again with the front tire. This happened in a split second while at a light, the motorcycle guy was just waiting to cross and was hit sideways. After the car stopped, the tire that hit the motorcycle became flat and came off the rim.

So, I'm thinking that maybe Karen's car ran over something steep, like something by the side of the road, or around the cemetery or nearby.

Okay, all my opinion.

----

In this case the prosecution will have to mount a huge circumstantial case because it looks like the husband (most likely POI) will not talk, since he lawyered up on the day Karen went missing.

Hopefully forensics on the car, house, and dumping grounds is enough.

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1796485.html
Sheriff's dept., TBI awaiting coroner's report on Swift
December 20, 2011

Dyer County Sheriff's Department investigators and the TBI are still awaiting the results from the Shelby County Medical Examiner's Office for the cause of death in the Karen Swift murder case.

Chief Investigator Terry McCreight stated on Monday the medical examiner's office in Memphis had not sent their findings and noted it may take awhile before they complete it. He added the detailed process is time consuming and coroners were doing what they could to finish the report.
 ::snipping2::

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1796479.html
Memorial accounts set up to aid Swift family
Dyersburg State Gazette
Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Sheriff, DA speak on status of Swift investigation
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Dyersburg State Gazette

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1804735.html  (http://www.stategazette.com/story/1804735.html)

The investigation into the murder of Karen Swift is entering its second month and Dyer County Sheriff's investigators are still awaiting the autopsy report from the Shelby County Medical Examiner's office.
 ::snipping2::
"In the Swift case, the body was recovered 42 days after her disappearance, which resulted in additional stages of decomposition," said Box. "This can cause an autopsy to take longer. Also, in this case, examiners are conducting additional detailed exams on certain parts of the body, which is also preventing the release of the body until the exams on those parts are completed."

Box added the medical examiner's office could also be communicating with other agencies in the process and that could take additional time.
 ::snipping2::
Box noted some people would like to see them make an arrest in the case as quickly as possible, but said they must be patient and wait until all of the reports are complete.

"Although our office has quite a bit of physical evidence in this case, we have not and will not name any suspect, until we receive all results of lab processing that we need to complete the investigation," said Box.
 ::snipping2::

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1812207.html
Swift's body released to family by coroner's office
Dyersburg State Gazette
February 3, 2012

The body of Karen Swift has been released from the Shelby County Medical Examiner's Office and Dyer County Sheriff's investigators are awaiting the coroner's final report.

Swift's body was released to her family and was taken to McNabb Funeral Home in Pocahontas, Ark., where Swift is originally from. The visitation will be Friday, Feb. 10, from 5 - 8 at the funeral home and the funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. at the Church of God in Pocahontas.

Dyer County Chief Investigator Terry McCreight said Swift's husband, David Swift, is listed as Swift's next of kin and the body would have been released to him.

Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box stated now that Swift's body has been released they feel the coroner's final report on how Swift was murdered should be completed soon.

"After we receive the report, we can proceed further with our investigation," said Box.
 ::snipping2::

Karen Swift's funeral planned as police investigate slaying

Posted: Feb 06, 2012 11:03 AM CST Updated: Feb 06, 2012 11:59 AM CST
  http://www.wmctv.com/story/16685718/funeral-planned-as-police-investigate-slaying (http://www.wmctv.com/story/16685718/funeral-planned-as-police-investigate-slaying)
DYERSBURG, TN -

(AP) - A funeral is planned in Arkansas for a West Tennessee mother whose body was found last year as police continue to investigate her death.

The funeral for Karen Swift, who went missing last October, is planned for Saturday in Pocahontas, AR, after her body was released to the family from the Shelby County Medical Examiner's Office, the State Gazette reported.
 ::snipping2::
 ::MonkeyAngel::

I am not sure why the date of death reads December 10, 2011 but here it is anyway:

 ::MonkeyAngel:: ::MonkeyAngel:: ::MonkeyAngel::

   
Obituaries

Karen Johnson Swift
(January 25, 1967 - December 10, 2011)

Send Flowers Send Sympathy Card
Send Private Condolences

Dyersburg, TN - Karen Johnson Swift, 44, passed away Saturday, December 10, 2011.

Born January 25, 1967 in Galesburg, IL.

She is preceded in death by paternal grandparents; Silas and Marie Johnson and maternal grandparents; Howard and Ruby Kidd.

She is survived by husband of 22 years since September 23, 1989, David Swift of the home, two sons; Preston David Swift of Conway, AR and Dustin Glen Swift of the home. Two daughters; Ashley Paige Swift of the home and Keeley Shea Swift also of the home. Parents, Gary and Carol Johnson of Walnut Ridge, brother Jeffrey Johnson of Walnut Ridge, AR and sister Lisa Currie of Searcy, AR. One nephew, two nieces, four great nephews and numerous relatives, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

While in high school Karen won numerous trophies and awards in track. After graduating she ran 5K marathons. She loved and adored her family and children and was always involved in her children’s activities. Karen has two boys in college and raising two younger girls by the same standards that she raised her boys. She is loved and will be missed by all.

Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, February 11, 2012 at Church of God with Robert Davis officiating. Burial will follow in Randolph Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will be held Friday from 5-8 p.m. in the Chapel of McNabb Funeral Home.

Pallbearers include: Tommy Dunlap, Steve Shults, Mark Tanner, Mark Rowe, Fred Jarrett, and Neil Ray
 http://www.mcnabbfuneralhome.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=1388986&fh_id=13107 (http://www.mcnabbfuneralhome.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=1388986&fh_id=13107)

http://www.wmctv.com/story/16910422/family-mourns-murdered-dyersburg-mother-of-four
Family mourns murdered mother of four
By Jerica Phillips
February 10, 2012

Video at Link

http://lawrencecounty.kait8.com/news/families/66589-visitation-be-held-tonight-karen-swift
Visitation to be held tonight for Karen Swift
Submitted by Patricia D. Davis, Community Web Producer
February 10, 2012

 ::snipping2::
Funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, February 11, at the Church of God in Pocahontas with Robert Davis officiating. Burial will follow in Randolph Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will be held Friday from 5 until 8 p.m. in the Chapel of McNabb Funeral Home.

Pallbearers include: Tommy Dunlap, Steve Shults, Mark Tanner, Mark Rowe, Fred Jarrett, and Neil Ray
 ::snipping2::

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1822215.html
Sheriff's dept. awaits final Swift autopsy report
March 4, 2012

Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box and his investigators continue to wait on Karen Swift's final autopsy report from the Shelby County Coroner's Office before they enter the next phase of their investigation.

On Friday, Memphis media stated the autopsy report was complete. However, Box said his department has not received it.

"We have an active investigation where the final autopsy report still hasn't been completed yet," said Box. "Investigators continue to investigate this case and we are following up on any additional leads that come in. Each day that goes by is an additional day that we have an opportunity to add a potentially critical piece of evidence to this investigation."

He also noted when they do receive the report they would not be able to immediately release any of the details to the public since it was sealed in Dyer County Circuit Court by Judge Lee Moore.

In a court order dated on Dec. 21, 2011, Moore ordered the "autopsy report not be subject to disclosure as a public document and shall remain confidential pending the indictment and arrest of all subjects in the underlying homicide or pending the closure of the investigation into the underlying homicide."

Dyer County Sheriff Chief Investigator Terry McCreight and TBI Agent Nathan Bishop testified the release of the autopsy report "may seriously impede or impair the investigation."
More...

http://www.kfvs12.com/story/17071264/karen-swift-autopsy-complete-but-cause-of-death-withheld
Karen Swift autopsy complete, but cause of death withheld
March 3, 2012

(WMC-TV) - The Shelby County Medical Examiner's office has completed the autopsy of Karen Swift, the West Tennessee mother who was missing for months.

The cause of death has been determined, but they said they are not authorized to release the document or any information inside.
 ::snipping2::

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1827595.html
Swift autopsy report complete, details remain sealed
March 20, 2012

 ::snipping2::
In a court order, dated Dec. 21, 2011, Dyer County Circuit Court Judge Lee Moore ordered the autopsy report not be subject to disclosure as a public document. Its contents are to remain confidential pending the indictment and arrest of those responsible or the closure of the investigation.
Swift's body was sent to the medical examiner's office on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2011, after it was discovered by a cemetery caretaker near Bledsoe Cemetery in Dyer County. The location was approximately three miles from Swift's residence on Willie Johnson Road where she lived with her husband and two of their children. Swift had been missing since Oct. 30, 2011, and her identity was confirmed on Dec. 11, 2011, using her dental records. Afterward, Box stated his department was pursuing the case as a murder investigation due to the placement of Swift's body and apparent injuries to it.

Box noted the four and one-half month-long investigation has produced numerous items requiring analysis and they are still waiting on a few more results to come back.

"This has been an investigation which has developed a lot of evidence that required lab work," said Box. "We have received lab results from much of the evidence submitted, but are still awaiting DNA processing and results of additional evidence that has been sent to the TBI Crime Lab."
 
 ::snipping2::

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1849038.html
Sheriff confident Swift murderer will be brought to justice
May 15, 2012

Although no charges have been made in the five-month-long murder investigation of Karen Swift, Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box says he is certain he and his team of investigators will undoubtedly make an arrest.

"We are confident we will bring the person, or persons responsible, to justice," said Box. "The investigation is still active and ongoing."

As the investigation enters its 156th day, Box said he would not release any details about the investigation due to the fact it would jeopardize the investigation.

"Our office has collected much evidence in the case and investigators still are confident that an arrest will be made when the investigation is complete, but not until then," stated Box. "We will protect the integrity of this case up to the arrest and maintain this integrity during the trial to see that a conviction is received. This case must and will be tried in a court of law and not in the media, not on the Internet, and not in the newspaper."
 ::snipping2::
The Dyer County Sheriff's Department is still asking anyone who had contact with Swift before her disappearance, recalls seeing anyone near her vehicle on Millsfield Highway on Oct. 30, 2011, or has any other information about the case to contact the Dyer County Sheriff's Office at 731-285-2802 or 1-800-TBI-FIND.

http://www.wpsdlocal6.com/home/ticker/Investigators-say-they-are-close-to-arrests-in-Karen-Swift-case-151854915.html
Investigators say they are close to arrests in Karen Swift case
May 17, 2012

DYER COUNTY, Tn.----Arrests could be coming soon in the case of a murdered Tennessee mother Karen Swift.
 ::snipping2::
Also on Wednesday, Swift's husband David hired high-powered attorney Steve Farese to represent him.  Farese says his investigation uncovered some some suspects and that more than one person may be arrested.

Wow! That's great news! I feel so bad for the children.

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1889980.html
Sheriff: Person of interest in Swift case
September 1, 2012

Evidence being prepared for murder trial


Although there has been no arrest in the Karen Swift murder investigation, Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box stated he and his investigators have a person of interest and the evidence they have collected is being prepared for a murder trial. He pointed out his department is being assisted by state and federal agencies and they are working diligently to bring Swift's murderer to justice.

"Our investigators have done a very good job in compiling the evidence and we will use all of the results of the investigation and evidence from these agencies, in unison, to see that an arrest and conviction is obtained," said Box.

There have been several persons of interest throughout the course of the investigation, but Box stated they have ruled all of them out, except for one person in particular. He noted the identity of the person is currently being kept confidential since it would not be beneficial to the case to reveal the identity. He emphasized that the person mentioned is a person of interest and not a suspect. And they would not name a suspect until the investigation is complete or an arrest is made.

"If this individual was on the run or if we felt that other persons were in immediate danger, we would have already named this person as a suspect," said Box.
 ::snipping2::
 The Tennessee Bureau Investigation forensic lab in Nashville serves all 95 counties in the state and performs a wide range of analyses on collected evidence. Box said the TBI has provided continued assistance in collecting, and processing the forensic lab work for the Swift case and he hopes to get the results in soon.

"I have made additional requests to expedite the processing of the remainder of DNA and forensic evidence that is needed," said Box. "Some of the processing includes not only lab work, but taking the results of the investigation and having it prepared in a courtroom presentation format. "

The Tennessee Highway Patrol Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) was called by the sheriff's department early on in the investigation in an attempt to document evidence-recovery locations and to possibly assist in determining Swift's movements before and during her disappearance. Also, the team is being used to possibly determine how far Swift's vehicle traveled from the time she arrived home in the early morning hours of Oct. 30 until it was found parked on Millsfield Highway. Box stated they are able to obtain this data from known information and sometimes through the collection and interpretation of data from the vehicle's computer.

"These results of the data are currently being complied in a computer-generated courtroom presentation format," said Box.
He also noted Karen Swift's cell phones were recovered during the investigation and the Dyer County Sheriff's Department is working with the United States Secret Service in processing information used to pinpoint her movements around the time of her disappearance.

"This processing with the Secret Service may provide highly detailed data, which may include the time of every movement that was made before, during and after her murder," said Box.
 ::snipping2::

http://www.kfvs12.com/story/19439426/dyer-county-sheriff-continues-to-investigate-swift-case
Dyer County sheriff continues to investigate Swift case
September 2, 2012

 ::snipping2::
According to Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box, investigators have ruled out every current person of interest, except for one.

He says you have to be very careful in assessing anyone with lab and DNA results that are still out, or even making any statement about how many persons are involved until the results are received.

According to the sheriff, investigators are still doing a great job compiling information about the case.

Box says everyone would already like to have seen an arrest, but time is not the important issue here. He says the important thing is doing the job right.  And, he says his department has been putting this case together one solid piece at a time.

The sheriff says investigators will use all results of the investigation to lead to an arrest and conviction.  He says investigators are fortunate to have made all the advances that they have in this case.
 ::snipping2::

http://www.wbbjtv.com/news/local/New-Details-In-Karen-Swift-Murder-Investigation-168341326.html
New Details In Karen Swift Murder Investigation
September 2, 2012

DYER COUNTY, Tenn. - New details surface in the homicide investigation of a Dyer County mother. Although there has been no arrest, Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box said there is new information regarding Karen Swift's murder.
 ::snipping2::
Dyer County Sheriff confirmed that although no arrest has been made, investigators have a person of interest. Sheriff Box added that they have had several persons of interest throughout the course of the investigation, but they have all been ruled out except for this one person in particular. The identity of the person is currently being kept confidential. Sheriff Box said they will not name a suspect until the investigation is complete or an arrest is made.
 ::snipping2::
Sheriff Box stated the investigation is still very active with many agencies involved in preparing evidence for a murder trial. Swift's cell phones are still being investigated by the secret service and the remaining autopsy lab work is being processed.

Video at Link

http://www.jacksonsun.com/article/20120903/NEWS01/309030017/Sheriff-Probe-into-Dyer-County-mother-Karen-Swift-s-death-winding-on?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE
Sheriff: Probe into Dyer County mother Karen Swift's death winding on
September 3, 2012

DYERSBURG (AP) — A Tennessee sheriff says detectives have eliminated multiple people in the probe of the slaying of a 44-year-old woman but the investigation is winding on.
 ::snipping2::
Box estimates between 50 to 100 pieces of evidence have been collected. Investigators have received much of the lab results back, but Box stated they are looking forward to receiving everything back that is needed to prepare this case for trial.

The first article I've posted  below is just over two weeks old.  The second is four months old.  Similar headline.  Hoping there will be justice for Karen and her family soon.

http://www.kait8.com/story/19445598/investigators-close-to-arrest-in-karen-swift-murder-case
Investigators close to arrest in Karen Swift murder case
September 3, 2012


http://www.wpsdlocal6.com/home/ticker/Investigators-say-they-are-close-to-arrests-in-Karen-Swift-case-151854915.html
Investigators say they are close to arrests in Karen Swift case
May 17, 2012
 

http://wreg.com/2012/09/19/dyer-county-awaiting-arrest-in-karen-swift-murder/
Dyer County Awaiting Arrest in Karen Swift Murder
September 19, 2012

(Dyersburg, TN) The Dyer County Grand Jury meets the second week of October.

It’s unclear if they will take up the Karen Swift murder case.

It’s been almost an entire year since Swift was murdered in Dyersburg.

The sheriff’s department has never made an arrest.
 ::snipping2::
A judge ordered Swift’s cause of death be sealed and not released until the trial.

Waiting for justice for Karen. 

sounds like Sheriff:Box,is building a case,i hope so,Karen needs justice

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1889980.html
Sheriff: Person of interest in Swift case
 Sunday, September 2, 2012
Evidence being prepared for murder trial

After her body was found, investigators began investigating the case as a homicide. Box states the investigation is still very active with many agencies involved in the preparation of the evidence for a murder trial. During the course of the investigation, Box estimates between 50 to 100 pieces of evidence have been collected. Investigators have received much of the lab results back, but Box stated they are looking forward to receiving everything back that is needed to prepare this case for trial.

"I have made additional requests to expedite the processing of the remainder of DNA and forensic evidence that is needed," said Box. "Some of the processing includes not only lab work, but taking the results of the investigation and having it prepared in a courtroom presentation format. "
 
The Tennessee Highway Patrol Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) was called by the sheriff's department early on in the investigation in an attempt to document evidence-recovery locations and to possibly assist in determining Swift's movements before and during her disappearance. Also, the team is being used to possibly determine how far Swift's vehicle traveled from the time she arrived home in the early morning hours of Oct. 30 until it was found parked on Millsfield Highway. Box stated they are able to obtain this data from known information and sometimes through the collection and interpretation of data from the vehicle's computer.
 
"These results of the data are currently being complied in a computer-generated courtroom presentation format," said Box.
 
He also noted Karen Swift's cell phones were recovered during the investigation and the Dyer County Sheriff's Department is working with the United States Secret Service in processing information used to pinpoint her movements around the time of her disappearance.
 "This processing with the Secret Service may provide highly detailed data, which may include the time of every movement that was made before, during and after her murder," said Box.
 ------------------------------------
info computer-generated courtroom presentation format
http://criminaldefense.homestead.com/Technology.html

I had to look at the publication date, and it is indeed November 3, 2012.  When I initially read the article off the top of my head, I thought it was a repeat from June and September updates. If you read back, you'll see what I mean.   I don't want the police to be in too much of a hurry that it impacts an arrest and conviction, but gee, it just seems we keep reading how close they are to making an arrest and they're just dotting the i's and crossing the t's.  JMHO


http://www.stategazette.com/story/1909720.html
Sheriff: Final stages of Swift investigation, pushing for an arrest
November 1, 2012

Tuesday marked the one-year anniversary since Karen Swift was reported missing and presumably the day she was murdered.
Although a year has passed, Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box says sheriff's investigators are making arrangements to take the case to trial.

"We are at the final stages of the investigation and we are pushing hard for an indictment or an arrest," said Box. "We still only have one person of interest in the case and everything is coming together as it should and we should be able to complete the investigation soon."

With no witnesses to Swift's murder, investigators have had to rely on interviews, highly technical data, circumstantial and physical evidence. Much of the physical evidence is DNA, which the TBI is just now finished processing.

"Next week, investigators will travel to the Nashville TBI forensics lab and pick up processed evidence in the case and bring it back to the sheriff's department," said Box. "Early on in the investigation you had to give investigators time to do their job. You couldn't push them to just come up with evidence just to make an arrest. It had to be prepared correctly and if it took a little while to do it properly and correctly then so be it. What matters is the final outcome and that is a murder conviction."

Box said some media outlets have incorrectly quoted him, including a recent misquote by a Memphis television station in saying that investigators stated Karen Swift's husband David Swift was not a suspect in the case.

"That statement has been corrected at my request and our statement has been throughout this investigation that we have not named a suspect, or publicly identified any person of interest," said Box. "And furthermore, we have not disclosed anyone as not being either a suspect or a person of interest."

Box continued that a lot of the investigation was spent dispelling rumors and fabricated stories that have made their way around the community. He and his investigators have worked to put those rumors to rest and now they are going to rely on the culmination of a year's hard work and let the evidence speak for itself.

"It gives us some relief that the case is nearly complete," said Box. "It has been strenuous on us and it has also been a strain on the community."
More...

Still waiting!
 ::justice2NJ::

http://www.stategazette.com/story/1921468.html
Swift case may go before special called grand jury
December 11, 2012
Sheriff Box says no indictment will be announced until suspect in custody

Monday marked the one-year anniversary in which the body of Karen Swift was found. It also marked the one-year anniversary Dyer County Sheriff's investigators turned their missing person investigation into a murder investigation. Since that time, sheriff's investigators have focused their attention in bringing her killer to justice and preparing the case for trial.
Although the Dyer County Grand Jury met on Monday, Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box said the case was not presented to them. With grand jury dates always known, Box said, if needed, he would make a request to District Attorney Phil Bivens to call a special grand jury. Even if a special grand jury is called, Box stated he would not announce if an indictment had been made until a suspect is in custody.

"We wouldn't announce if an indictment had been made and jeopardize the lives of those officers executing an arrest warrant," said Box. "That just wouldn't happen."

Box pointed out the investigation is ongoing and too much effort and time has been put into the case for them to not present it to a grand jury until they are ready to go to court.

"People have no idea of the amount of evidence we have had to process and what all we have had to do without there being any eyewitness to Karen's murder," said Box. "This case is still ongoing and we have several more things we would like to do to insure we get a conviction when this case goes to court."
More...

Comments

Since when does the SS look at cell phones?   :smt017

http://www.abc24.com/news/local/story/On-Karen-Swift-Well-Throw-the-Murder-Case-Out-if/mck1UxX4jEWWD8uAiSF43g.cspx
On Karen Swift: "We'll Throw the Murder Case Out if You Talk"
Published: 8/10 5:33 pm Note the date from 2012


Dang!  Sounds like this judge means business.

I hope the case is as solid as they are indicating.
 ::justice2NJ::

http://www.kait8.com/story/22757820/sources-authorities-execute-search-warrant-at-davis-swifts-home
Authorities execute search warrant at David Swift's home
July 3, 2013



DYER COUNTY, TN -
(WMC-TV) - Authorities arrived at the home of David Swift, whose wife was murdered in 2011, to execute a search warrant Wednesday.
 ::snipping3::
Children played in the front yard as Dyer County sheriff's deputies armed with a search warrant, along with an agent from the TBI, spent three hours at the home of David Swift looking for evidence in Karen's murder.

"Investigators of our department executed a search warrant at the residence of David Swift. Currently the nature of that search is sealed under a court order. The investigation is active and ongoing," said Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box.

Box said the house has been searched thoroughly in the past, but he would not say if anything was found in the house Wednesday.
Video at Link

http://www.wbbjtv.com/news/local/Search-Warrant-Issued-For-Husband-of-Karen-Swift-214317631.html
Search Warrant Issued For Husband of Karen Swift
July 4, 2013

DYERSBURG, Tenn- Investigators said they've searched David Swift's house many times before after his wife, Karen Swift, was found beaten to death almost two years ago; and on Wednesday they searched the home, yet again.
 ::snipping3::
According to Dyer County Sheriff, Jeff Box, they can't say much about the details of the new search warrant, due to court order; but had reasonable cause to issue a new warrant.
 ::snipping3::
David Swift has not been named a suspect in his wife's apparent murder, but neighbors said there are too many unanswered questions to rule out anyone.

According to Sheriff Box, the investigation is still active and ongoing.

Video at Link

http://wreg.com/2013/07/05/slow-investigation-for-karen-swift-murder/
Slow Investigation In Karen Swift Murder
July 5, 2013

(Dyersburg, TN) Nearly two years after the murder of mother of four Karen Swift, the investigation for her killer has been anything but swift.
Karen’s neighbors are frustrated and afraid.
Frustrated by a lack of progress in the sheriff department’s investigation and afraid because a killer is still on the loose.
Swift’s neighbor didn’t want to do an interview, but told me he’s frustrated with the sheriff’s department for the lack of information about the murder next door and a killer on the loose.
 ::snipping3::
A judge has sealed information about Karen Swift’s autopsy and cause of death.

Video at Link

Thank you Miss  ::buzzbee3::  for these updates.

So much for reports last year of arrest being near.
Hope they cross all their ts and dot all their is.

 ::justice2nj2::

You're welcome Sister.  I keep hoping and praying there will be justice for Karen.  It's taking a while, but it doesn't sound like the case has gone cold.

http://www.wbbjtv.com/news/local/Search-Warrant-Issued-For-Husband-of-Karen-Swift-214317631.html
Search Warrant Issued For Husband of Karen Swift
July 4, 2013

http://tiptoncounty.wmctv.com/news/news/164582-swifts-attorney-calls-unannounced-search-house-unnecessary
Swift's attorney calls unannounced search on house 'unnecessary'
July 6, 2013

DYER COUNTY, TN- (WMC-TV) - Dyer County Sheriff's deputies searched the home of David Swift Wednesday for evidence in the murder of his wife Karen.

"I'm a little bit miffed that they would scare the children like they did with the show of force, but they can do what they want. They're the authorities," said David's attorney Steve Farese.

Farese said Swift and his two young daughters, and their friends, were at the house when the deputies showed up armed with a search warrant signed by a judge. This is the second time investigators have searched the house.

"It was certainly unusual, and it was unnecessary all they would have to do is call us. If they wanted to look inside the house. He has cooperated fully throughout the investigation," said Farese.
 ::snipping3::
No arrests have been made in the case.

"It's just obvious that they were at a loggerhead and are looking for anything," said Farese.

Residents wonder if anyone will ever be charged.

BBM
And if they found something, Farese would be the first to shot, "illegal search."  Even I can figure that out!

http://www.stategazette.com/story/2087165.html
Signs displaying image of murder victim removed by sheriff's office
Thursday, May 29, 2014

Several signs displaying a photo of murder victim Karen Swift with the words "Justice for Karen" were recently removed by Dyer County Sheriff's Office officials.

According to Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box, on Monday, May 2, he was out of town and said he began receiving phone calls about the signs being placed around Dyer County.

"We got phone calls saying the signs were put on private property without permission and on state right of ways," said Box. "(The signs) did not have any identification about who put them up and there was no coordination between those people and the sheriff's department or the district attorney's office."

(Photo) Box stated the sheriff's department coordinated with Dyer County District Attorney Phil Bivens on the issue.
"We coordinated with the DA and ordered they be taken down, so they were taken down," said Box.

Bivens stated he was also out of town also on Monday and he received a phone call from Box asking him about the signs.

"Sheriff Box said there were signs up that said 'Justice for Karen (Swift)' and with no information on them," said Bivens. " I asked if they were on public or private property and he said he wasn't certain. I said if they are on private property they have to have the property owner's permission and they can't put them up on public right of way."

Dyersburg city zoning ordinances do not permit any signs to appear in the right of way.

Bivens added if a property owner gives a person permission to put a sign up, that person can put up a sign saying anything.

Box said one of the signs was placed next to a trailer related to his campaign on private property on St. John Avenue, and said the person who placed the sign there did not have permission to do so.

"With no coordination with the DA or the sheriff's office the signs were put up as a direct political attack," said Box. "It looked like a direct political attack by putting (the sign) against my election sign and we won't let a murder case be used for political gain. That's what it looked like."

Gerald and Jenna Scott of Henry County spoke with the State Gazette and stated they had six signs made and placed some at the Verizon store and Tractor Supply on Lake Road, and near Dyersburg State Community College. They stated Verizon gave them permission, but Box says Verizon said they didn't own the property the store is on. Gerald Scott said he pastored a church in Arkansas and was close to Karen Swift when she lived there. He says the signs were not a political ploy, but an attempt to raise awareness about the unsolved murder.

Box stated he also spoke with Swift's mother about the signs and she told him she had no knowledge about the signs, but later recanted her story and said she had been previously contacted about putting up the sign.

Box stated the six signs were taken up and three were given back to the Scotts and the other three are being kept for Bivens to look at. He added he believes the signs only stir up emotions and hinder the ongoing Swift murder investigation.

"Those signs are going to cause more false rumors to be spread and revive this Internet garbage about the case," said Box.

He added his department continues to work on the case and hopes they can bring justice for the murdered Swift.

"I'm the first one standing on the front line wanting justice for Karen and we have been working hard for her and we don't need anything to distract us from the case," said Box.

http://www.stategazette.com/story/2088085.html
DA: More evidence needed in Swift murder case
Saturday, May 31, 2014


It has been almost two and a half years since the body of 44-year-old murder victim Karen Swift was found near Bledsoe Cemetery in Dyer County.
Since that time, law enforcement has not made an arrest in the case. Some wonder why it has taken so long to bring her killer to justice and if there will ever be an arrest.

Dyer County District Attorney Phil Bivens says the decision lies with him when there is enough evidence in the case to make an arrest, and so far, there has not been enough.

He added he has spoken with those close to Swift and informed them about the current state of the case.

"I met with Karen Swift's mom and several of her close friends and explained to them there will not be a indictment retuned until I have sufficient evidence," said Bivens.

He notes if there is an arrest made, then they need to have enough evidence to make sure they get a conviction when they go to trial. If the defendant is acquitted of the charges, then the procedural defense known as the double jeopardy rule comes into play and the person cannot be charged for the same crime. And that is not what Bivens wants to see happen.

"Because once we charge them, then we go to trial," said Bivens. "And if we charge somebody and no matter what you find, you can't go back and charge them on the same charges. There might be a crucial piece of evidence that we find sometime down the road, maybe one year later or five years later, and we don't want that to happen."
 ::snipping3::
Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box said the case currently rests in Bivens' hands and he and his investigators have pointed out one person who they believe is Karen Swift's killer.

"We have identified a person of interest to the district attorney and our investigators are working closely with him to render an indictment and seek a conviction," said Box. "Back some time ago, we made the DA aware of the results of our investigation and we have identified one individual that we believe is responsible for the murder of Karen Swift. And we will continually work closely with the DA and the TBI, until an indictment is made and the case goes to trial."

Bivens wants the public to know the Karen Swift case has not been forgotten, but he will continue to wait until he feels there is enough evidence for a conviction.

"It's not going to be forgotten, there just hasn't been a strong enough case to get a conviction," said Bivens. "You never know when that break is going to come though."
 ::snipping3::