Missing Women Joint Task Force Seeks Help
March 10, 2004
Statement issued by Missing Women Joint Task Force at 5:00 pm in Vancouver
(Cpl. Catherine Galliford - RCMP Missing Women Spokesperson): The first thing we
would like to say, is that we apologize to the families of the missing women
involved in our investigation. A leak of information to the news media today,
from an unknown source, created a situation in which many family members were
suddenly being contacted by news reporters without first getting the facts from
police.
Over the past few hours, members of the Missing Women Joint Task Force have been
trying to call as many family members as possible to share with them what facts
we can. The process is continuing as we speak.
As you are aware, the Missing Women Joint Task Force is continuing with its
complex investigation into the disappearance of women, predominately from
Vancouver’s Downtown East Side. The investigation has so far resulted in 15
counts of murder being laid against Robert William Pickton.
A major part of our investigation was an extensive search of a Port Coquitlam
farm property owned in part by Mr. Pickton. Some of the activities on that
property included the raising and slaughtering of animals, including pigs. Our
continuing investigation has yielded information that meat products from the
Port Coquitlam farm may have been obtained by acquaintances of Mr. Pickton, and
others.
We must make it very clear that there is no evidence that meat produced at the
farm ever received wide distribution or was available through retail outlets.
Let us stress that point with you. There is no evidence that we are dealing with
anything but a very localized issue, involving a specific number of local
people.
We do know that conditions at the farm were unsanitary, including areas where
animals were slaughtered. Because of that, it is possible that some of the meat
produced at the farm may have been exposed to disease and other contaminants, as
well as to human DNA.
(Det. Cst. Shelia Sullivan - Vancouver Police Missing Women Spokesperson): The
issue related to the health effects of meat coming from the Port Coquitlam farm
is a matter for the specialized knowledge of health authorities. What the
Missing Women Joint Task Force is very interested in is additional possible
information related to the ongoing police investigation.
We are asking anyone who still has in their possession any meat product obtained
from the Port Coquitlam farm to immediately contact the Missing Women Task
Force. Our number is 1-877-687-3377. Specifically, we are look for any meat that
was obtained over the past several years, up to February of 2002 and is still in
the possession of individuals – for example, still in their freezer.
Our chief reason for having people contact us is that the meat in their
possession, the meat obtained from the Port Coquitlam farm, may have been
exposed to, or is possibly connected to, existing evidence that is related to
the murder charges against Mr. Pickton.
In addition, the Missing Women Joint Task Force want to talk to any individual
who ever visited the Port Coquitlam farm, and who has not yet talked to police.
We will take a few questions at this point, but please bear in mind that a
court-ordered publication ban still applies to the preliminary hearing involving
Mr. Pickton. In addition, there is still an ongoing police investigation
underway by the Missing Women Joint Task Force. For that reason, we are narrowly
confined as to what we can share with you.
Released by:
Catherine Galliford, Cpl.
RCMP - Missing Women Spokesperson
Phone: (604) 945-1581
and
Shelia Sullivan, Detective Cst.
VPD - Missing Women Spokesperson
Phone: (604) 598-4308
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: (604)264-2929
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MEDIA ADVISORY: News Conference Today (Wednesday
March 10, 2004)
March 10, 2004
Please be advised that the Missing Women Joint Task Force has called a news
conference for this afternoon.
The conference information is as follows:
Date: Wednesday March 10, 2004 (today)
Time: 5:00 pm
Location: RCMP E Division Head Quarters Building
News conference room
5255 Heather Street - Vancouver.
RCMP Cpl. Catherine Galliford and Vancouver Police Department Detective Cst.
Sheila Sullivan will both be on hand. The statement issued will be posted on the
website.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: (604)264-2929
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Media Advisory - Joint Missing Women Task Force
Wednesday, January 28th, 2004
Vancouver, BC: The Joint Missing Women Task Force is respectfully requesting
that the media continue to refer to the DNA evidence we have seized from the
Port Coquitlam farm property as 'DNA' rather than 'remains'.
The Task Force has consistently made reference to 'DNA evidence' due to the fact
that it more accurately reflects the evidence we have seized from the farm
property. Recent media reports have referred to 'remains' seized from the farm
property and this is somewhat misleading to the public and disturbing for many
of the families of the missing women.
When Task Force investigators contact the families of the missing women to
advise them that their loved one's DNA has been found on the property, they are
not told what the DNA evidence is. The reason for this, of course, is due to the
fact that there are charges before the courts and the publication or release of
any evidentiary information related to the case could jeopardize the accused's
right to a fair trial.
The Task Force appreciates the media's assistance in informing the public about
developments in the investigation. We want to make sure the most accurate
information is presented to the public and, for this reason, we are issuing this
media advisory.
Cpl. Catherine Galliford
RCMP Spokesperson - Joint Missing Women Task Force
Phone: 604-945-1581
Det. Sheila Sullivan
VPD Spokesperson - Joint Missing Women Task Force
Phone: 598-4308
RCMP Media, /Communications
"E" Division
5255 Heather Street
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: (604)264-2929
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
JOINT MISSING WOMEN'S TASK FORCE MEDIA STATEMENT
Joint Missing Women Task Force
RCMP/VPD Media Briefing
Tuesday January 27, 2004 @ 12:30 hours
RCMP Headquarters, 5255 Heather St., Vancouver, B.C.
Det/Cst. Sheila SULLIVAN: The work of the Joint Missing Women Task Force has
been continuing on many fronts since the conclusion of our search at the Farm
property in Port Coquitlam.
We have recently been in contact with the families of six of the missing women
whose disappearances are being investigated by the Task Force. We have advised
these families that lab results have confirmed that their loved ones' DNA has
been located at the Farm property in Port Coquitlam. The families contacted
relate to the following six missing women: Yvonne Marie BOEN; Andrea Fay
BORHAVEN; Wendy Lynn CRAWFORD; Dawn CREY; Cara Louise ELLIS ; and Kerry Lynn
KOSKI..
Yvonne BOEN was reported missing in March of 2001
Andrea BORHAVEN was reported missing in May of 1999
Wendy CRAWFORD was reported missing in December of 1999
Dawn CREY was reported missing in December 2000
Cara ELLIS was last seen in 1997, and was reported missing in October of 2002
Kerry KOSKI was reported missing in January 1998.
We are not in a position to discuss the nature of the DNA evidence or where
exactly it was found.
From the beginning of this investigation, Task force investigators recognized
that forensic DNA technology would play a significant role in solving these
cases. As such, Task Force investigators and the scientists at the RCMP's
National Police Services Lab have worked hard over the last two years to put
together DNA profiles for all but one of the missing women being investigated by
the Task Force.
As a result of this work, we currently have three unidentified female DNA
profiles that are of significant interest to investigators. We believe that
these DNA profiles belong to women who are missing but not yet reported missing
to police.
It is of critical importance to the investigation that we identify the women to
whom these DNA profiles belong. We encourage the public to contact police if
they suspect that someone they know, who fits our description, is missing and
has not been reported. Once again, the description would be that of a young
woman - who family or friends believe may have been addicted to drugs or was
involved in the sex trade - and who hasn't been heard from since before February
of 2002.
Anyone having such information can contact their local police or they can
contact the Missing Women Tip Line at 1-877-687-3377.
[Cpl. Catherine GALLIFORD] Two investigative processes that we have undertaken
over the last couple of years have allowed us to develop promising leads on
another case as well. The first of these processes is the collection of DNA
profiles for all of the missing women cases we are investigating
Secondly, we have worked with the B.C. Coroners Service to review all
outstanding cases involving "unidentified human remains" from throughout British
Columbia.
As a result of this we have identified human remains found in Vancouver in 1988
as being those of Taressa Ann Williams, another one of the women who is on the
List of Missing Women being investigated by the Task Force. The family of
Taressa Williams have been notified of the identification, as have the families
of the other women whose names appear on the Missing Women List. The Williams
family is requesting that the media respect their need for privacy at this time.
When the human remains were found in 1988, the remains were such that there were
no identifying marks or features. That case has remained open with the B.C.
Coroners Service since that time. The recent identification was made possible
because of the work of Task Force investigators.
We want to stress that we have uncovered no evidence to date that links this
case with the Farm property located in Port Coquitlam. The investigation into
the WILLIAMS case is continuing.
We are releasing all of this information today because we want the public to
have timely and accurate information about the ongoing work of the Task Force,
and we want to minimize the potential for speculation and inaccuracies. In
addition, we want the public to know that our work is continuing and we continue
to request the public's assistance in our efforts to solve the disappearances of
all of the women whose names appear on our List of Missing Women.
In particular, we are asking anyone with information concerning the lifestyle,
movements, friends and associates of Yvonne BOEN, Andrea BORHAVEN, Wendy
CRAWFORD, Dawn CREY, Cara ELLIS, Kerry KOSKI and Taressa WILLIAMS to contact the
Task Force if they have not done so already. Our investigation into the
disappearances of these women is continuing and we are still seeking witnesses
and information that may assist us.
The Task Force continues to be a cooperative effort, involving not only the
Vancouver Police Department and the RCMP, but also the Delta Police Service, the
New Westminster Police Service, and the West Vancouver Police Department,
together with the Provincial Government, through the Ministries of the Solicitor
General and the Attorney General, all of whom recognize the significance of this
investigation.
Released by:
Cpl. Catherine Galliford
RCMP Spokesperson for the Missing Women Task Force
Phone (604) 945-1581
Det/Cst. Sheila Sullivan
VPD Spokesperson for the Missing Women Task Force
Phone (604) 598-4308
RCMP Media, /Communications
"E" Division
5255 Heather Street
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: (604)264-2929
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Media Advisory - Joint Missing Women Task Force
Media Briefing - 12:30 p.m., RCMP 'E' Div. Headquarters, 5255 Heather St.,
Vancouver, BC
The Joint Missing Women Task Force will be holding a media briefing today, at
12:30 p.m.. The briefing will take place at RCMP 'E' Div. Headquarters, 5255
Heather St., Vancouver, BC.
Catherine Galliford, Cpl.
Coquitlam RCMP
2986 Guildford way
coquitlam, bc v3b 7y5
Phone: 604-945-1581
Fax: 604-552-7303
Email: catherine.galliford@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
UPDATE: Sharon Anne Goselin Located
December 1, 2003
The Missing Women Joint Task Force has discovered the whereabouts of Sharon Anne
GOSELIN, a woman who was reported missing in December 2002.
On November 20th, 2003, the task force appealed to the public for assistance in
locating GOSELIN, who was last seen in May 2001. Since that public appeal, the
task force received information which determined that GOSELIN passed away in
Edmonton on June 20th, 2001 due to natural causes. She was using the name Sharon
Anne BYE at the time of her death. Her family has been notified by
investigators.
Released by:
Cpl. Catherine Galliford
RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Phone (604) 945-1581
Det/Cst. Sheila Sullivan
VPD Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Phone (604) 598-4308
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: (604)264-2929
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Missing Women Joint Task Force Seek Public’s Assistance
Locating 4 Women
Thursday, November 20, 2003
Statement Issued at 1:00 p.m.
[Cpl. Catherine Galliford - RCMP Spokesperson] The Missing Women Task Force is
seeking public assistance in locating four women. Each of these women was
involved in the sex trade in the Downtown Eastside and each had tendencies
toward substance abuse. While these women have not yet officially been added to
the list of missing women being investigated by the Task Force, their current
status is very important to the case.
Sharon Anne GOSELIN was age 53-years-old when she was last seen in May 2001. She
was reported missing in December 2002. She is Caucasian, five feet tall, 110
pounds, with brown hair and green eyes. GOSELIN is also know by the name Sharon
BYE. (Image 1)
Cara Louise ELLIS was last seen in 1996 when she was 25-years-old. She was
reported missing in October of 2002. She is Caucasian, 4'11", 106 pounds, with
long brown hair and brown eyes. She has several tattoos including a heart on her
left hand, a playboy bunny on the left side of her chest and a rose on her left
shoulder. ELLIS is also know by the name Nikki Trimble. (Image 2)
Gloria Christine FEDYSHYN was last seen in January 1990 when she was
27-years-old. She was reported missing in July 2002. She is Caucasian, 5'3", 120
pounds, with blonde hair and brown eyes. (Image 3)
Sharon Evelyn WARD was last seen in February 1997 when she was 29-years-old. She
was reported missing the following month. She is Caucasian, 5'4", 110 pounds,
with brown hair and brown eyes. (Image 4)
[Det/Cst. Sheila Sullivan - VPD Spokesperson] These women have come to our
attention as a result of our ongoing review and investigation of outstanding
missing person cases. We are appealing to the public for any information they
might have about these women. We are hoping that this public appeal will result
in us locating these women. If no information is forthcoming, then we will
consider officially adding their names to the missing women list. Anyone with
information about these women is asked to phone the Missing Women Tip Line at
1-877-687-3377 or Crimestoppers at 604-669-TIPS.
Since the Missing Women Task Force was established in April 2001, we have
reviewed and followed up on more than one hundred outstanding missing person
cases from across the country and the northwestern United States. Through these
follow-up investigations, we have been able to locate 73 women, including 66 who
are living at various locations throughout the world and seven who have been
confirmed deceased due to circumstances unrelated to this investigation.
We are hoping that, by coming to the public today with these additional missing
person cases, those of Sharon GOSELIN, Cara ELLIS, Gloria FEDYSHYN and Sharon
WARD, that we will be able to locate these women.
Photos are available below as Images 1- 4.
Image 1: Sharon Anne GOSELIN (also goes by Sharon Bye)
Image 2: Cara Louise ELLIS
Image 3: Gloria Christine FEDYSHYN
Image 4: Sharon Evelyn WARD
Released by:
Cpl. Catherine Galliford
RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Phone (604) 945-1581
Det/Cst. Sheila Sullivan
VPD Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Phone (604) 598-4308
[image 1]
[image 2]
[image 3]
[image 4]
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: (604)264-2929
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Thursday, Nov. 20th, 2003
The Missing Women Task Force will be holding a media briefing this afternoon at RCMP Headquarters, 5255 Heather St., Vancouver, BC.
The media briefing is scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m.
Released by:
Cpl. Cate Galliford - RCMP Missing Women Task Force Spokesperson
Det. Sheila Sullivan - VPD Missing Women Task Force Spokesperson
RCMP Media, /Communications
"E" Division
5255 Heather Street
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: (604)264-2929
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Wednesday, November 5, 2003
Det. Sheila SULLIVAN - Vancouver Police Spokesperson for Missing Women Task Force: This news conference signifies the end of a chapter in the ongoing work of the Joint Missing Women Task Force.
Within the next few days, the forensic search team currently working on the farm property in Port Coquitlam will complete their work. Then, the forensic scientists, police investigators and staff will begin the process of removing all of the search equipment from the site. This is expected to take approximately one week to complete. Once the equipment has been removed, the Missing Women Task Force will vacate the farm property, signifying the end of the 21- month long search. The property will revert back to the owners at that time, and will become solely their responsibility.
In February of 2002, we executed the warrant to search the 17-acre property, located on Dominion Avenue in Port Coquitlam. The search that has been undertaken over the past 21 months has been scientifically complex and detailed - the investigative and forensic steps undertaken are, in fact, unprecedented in Canadian history.
During the search, we have had many scientific experts and experienced police investigators working on the farm property. In conducting the below-ground search, we have relied heavily on the expertise and dedicated hard work of a large group of anthropological search technicians. At the height of the search, we employed 102 anthropologists, who carefully and methodically sifted and examined
approximately 370,000 cubic yards of soil, looking for anything that could have evidentiary value. They continued this work through the bitter cold of Winter, the heavy rains of Fall and the searing heat of
Summer. We want to publicly recognize the extraordinary efforts of these highly skilled anthropologists who performed their duties with patience, professionalism and diligence. They have all contributed greatly to what is now the largest serial murder investigation in Canadian history.
We would also like to publicly recognize the company that worked with us to muve such vast quantities of soil. Hazco provided the machinery and operators for the soil sifting operation. Their commitment and
flexibility in meeting our needs during the search was fundamental to our ability to complete the job.
Once the work at the farm property is complete, these anthropologists will move on to other job opportunities elsewhere, taking with them significant knowledge and experience gained from their work here.
Cpl. Catherine GALLIFORD - RCMP Spokesperson for the Missing Women Task Force: As we leave the farm property, we want to assure the families and the public that we have done a thorough search, and that anything of potential evidentiary value has been seized. No stone was left unturned and no shortcuts were taken. To this end, all of the buildings and structures on the property were subjected to extensive forensic examination and analysis. In the process it was necessary to dismantle all of those structures. As a result, there are no buildings remaining on the property. There are, however, large piles of debris and junk that belong to the property owners and have no forensic value. These piles will remain on the property after the police have gone.
These junk piles are not safe play areas for children. In addition to this, the ground on the site is very unstable in many places. Running the soil through the screening system expands it by approximately 25 percent. When you take into account the rainfall we have had, the soil becomes much like quicksand. When our investigators move about the property, they move on a secured path. Those who have tried shortcuts have sunk into the mud as deep as their chests.
We have drainage ditches on the site to prevent flooding to neighbouring properties. These ditches also pose a safety risk given the depth of water at times and the quicksand type of mud on the site.
Coquitlam RCMP and members of it's Crimewatch Team will be delivering letters to homes in the neighbourhood near the Dominion Road property. The letters are to thank area residents for their patience during this long investigation and also to warn them about the potential dangers on the property. An investigator from the site has also attended neighbourhood schools to ensure the warning is brought forward to all of the students through the school administration.
While the physical search of this property is ending, six forensic specialists and five exhibit handlers will be working over the next year or so, to process thousands of exhibits seized during this search. The RCMP's National Police Services lab is continuing to assist us effectively and efficiently and they have dedicated significant resources to complete the examinations. Throughout this investigation
they have implemented new processes, such as the use of robotics for DNA analysis, and are fully meeting the requirements of this investigation.
As the search of the farm property comes to a close, we want to assure the families of the missing women and the public that our investigation is far from over. We have always said that the search of the farm property was only one avenue of investigation that we were pursuing. That has not changed. This continues to be a complex, multi-faceted investigation.
We still have approximately 40 people on our list who are unaccounted for. The conclusion of this search means we can move ahead and focus on those cases. We want to assure the public and the families of these missing women that these disappearances are being treated as homicides and that our investigators are continuing to pursue leads relative to them. This has been, and will continue to be, a slow methodical process with no definitive time frame.
Released by:
Cpl. Catherine Galliford
RCMP Spokesperson for the Missing Women Task Force
Phone: (604)945-1581
Det. Sheila Sullivan
VPD Spokesperson for the Missing Women Task Force
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: (604)264-2929
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Media Statement from Joint Missing Women Task Force
October 29, 2003
The Missing Women Task Force has decided it will no longer address concerns of
the victims’ families through the media, in particular with regard to our Victim
Services Staff.
It is unfortunate that a limited representation of the victims’ families
continue to approach the media with their concerns, even though the Task Force
has an open door policy with regard to the families, and they are welcome to
address those concerns with the Task Force senior management at any time.
The Missing Women investigation is, as we’ve said in the past, a massive
undertaking and continues to be an evolving process. Our Victim Services team
has met with many challenges over the past two years and has done so with
professionalism, integrity, patience and compassion. As with any evolving
process, our Victim Services approach has had to be fluid, changing to meet the
demands of an investigation of this magnitude. We are presently in the process
of designing a Victim Services strategy that will hopefully meet all of the
needs of the victims’ families during the trial process. This comprehensive
strategy will be based on many of the needs the victims’ families have
identified to us in the past.
Our three, full-time, Victim Services professionals have poured their hearts and
souls into this investigation and the families of the missing women. They are
dedicated individuals who have been, and continue to be, an integral part of the
Missing Women Task Force. We have watched them work closely with the families in
a caring and professional way, and they do not deserve the treatment they have
been receiving through the media because of some of the families. If they choose
to leave the Missing Women investigation because of this, it will be to the
satisfaction of a few and to the detriment of many.
Once again, the Missing Women Task Force has had, and will continue to have, an
open door policy with the victims’ families but we will not address their
concerns through the media.
Released by:
Cpl. Catherine Galliford
RCMP Spokesperson for the Missing Women Task Force
Det. Sheila Sullivan
VPD Spokesperson for the Missing Women Task Force
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: (604)264-2929
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Missing Women Task Force - Update
August 8, 2003
Statement for release:
The Joint Missing Women Task Force has completed it's search at the Mission
site. In late July, task force investigators began sealing off an area located
just east of the Ruskin Bridge in Mission on the south side of the Lougheed
Highway. By the end of today, members and employees are hoping to have all the
support structures and equipment out of the area.
The reason for the search and it's outcome are not for public discussion at this
time.
The execution of the search warrant at the Port Coquitlam property continues.
The Joint Missing Women Task Force anticipates being at that site through to the
early fall.
Released by:
Cpl. Catherine Gallliford
RCMP Missing Women Taskforce Spokesperson
Detective/Cst. Sheila Sullivan
VPD Joint Missing Women Taskforce Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: (604)264-2929
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MEDIA ADVISORY: Mission Site access (Correction of
Time)
July 21, 2003
Please be advised that the restricted access site - the main media staging point
for the Mission site will be open from today Monday July 21, 2003 on from 2 p.m.
- 6:30 p.m.
Site access hours:
Sunday - Saturday (7 days a week)
2:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
*an advisory will be issued if the times change *
Reminder:
The media staging point is immediately adjacent to our main search area, on the
north side of the highway. We have chosen this area because, over the course of
the search, this will provide the media with a clear view of the search area and
the investigation taking place within it. The restricted access is due to the
fact that we don’t have the resources available to facilitate the media for
longer periods of time. There will not be any interviews granted at the staging
area. The sole purpose of this area is to provide an opportunity for the
photographers and reporters to obtain photos and view the scene.
The media are asked to please have media identification on their person when
they attend the site. We are also requesting that the media enter the access
area while approaching on the highway from the east, due to the fact that it is
too dangerous for their vehicles to enter this access area from the west. If you
are traveling from the west, please continue 1.2 kilometers past the media
staging area to the Hayward and Donatelli intersection. At this point you will
be able to make a safe and legal turn to approach the staging area from the
east. These rules will be strictly enforced by police officers on scene so we
are asking for the cooperation of the media.
Thank- you.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: (604)264-2929
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Update: Missing Women Joint Task Force
Sunday, July 20th, 2003
The Missing Women Task Force is executing a new search warrant in relation to
the missing women investigation. Early this morning task force investigators
began sealing off an area located just east of the Ruskin Bridge in Mission on
the south side of the Lougheed Highway. This land is designated First Nations
property and today the First Nations Band responsible for this area was served
with the search warrant.
The search of this area has been launched as a result of evidence uncovered
during the course of the missing women investigation. Because we have a case
before the courts we are unable to go into any detail with regard to what that
evidence is or how it pertains to our investigation.
The search site is approximately 350 meters in length and 50 meters in width,
and it consists mainly of wetlands, a slough and groundcover. There are no
buildings on this property. Some of the staff from our ongoing search of the
Port Coquitlam farm property will be conducting this search, along with an
eight-member team of RCMP divers.
Two of the four soil sifters we have been using during our search of the Port
Coquitlam farm property have been shut down, so we can excavate and search the
soil underneath them. The 52 anthropologists who were manning those two sifters
will be searching the new site in Mission. We still have two sifters and 52
anthropologists continuing their work on the Port Coquitlam property.
In preparation for this search the task force has worked with the Department of
Fisheries and Oceans, the BC Conservation Office and a senior biologist from a
private, environmental consulting firm.
We have been assured that our operation will not negatively impact the area
wildlife and natural fish habitat. and, through ongoing consultation with our
environmental experts, we will replace any vegetation they advise us to at the
end of this search. We are taking every precaution necessary in order not to
negatively impact the ecosystem
-more-
This search will begin with the groundcover being cut away by private
contractors. From that point a line search will be conducted and ground raking
will be undertaken by the search team. The RCMP dive team is assisting by
examining the extensive slough area. We are unable to give any definitive time
frame with regard to the duration of this search. It’s important to point out
that we will only be clearing away tall grass and weeds and cutting back bushes
in order to search underneath them. There will be an on-site, environmental
consultant while the cutting is underway
Approximately 1500 meters of fencing has been installed to secure the search
area and we will have 24-hour security on site. To protect the integrity of our
investigation and to provide a safe environment for the divers, we will be
utilizing a Zodiac boat to patrol the mouth of the slough and to turn away any
marine craft attempting to enter the area. A tent will be erected on the east
side of the Ruskin Bridge to provide the searchers some protection from the
elements during their breaks.
We are requesting the cooperation and patience of motorists and pedestrians
during the course of this investigation. The search is located immediately
adjacent to a high-traffic area of the Lougheed Highway. Electronic Traffic
Management signs are being installed for the duration of this search and some
no-parking and no-pedestrian signs will be placed in certain areas.
We have mentioned before that there are many facets to this investigation and
that hasn’t changed. While most of our resources have been utilized for our
ongoing search of the farm property in Port Coquitlam and to follow up on
associated leads, we are continuing our reviews of outstanding missing women
cases and we continue to pursue other aspects of this investigation.
As this investigation unfolds, we are continuing to seek public assistance and
we ask anyone who may have information in relation to this case to phone our tip
line. The tip line number is 1-877-687-3377.
We have provided access for the media on our new search site, however, due to
the high-traffic volume we are asking the media to please abide by certain rules
for their own safety. There is a media staging point immediately adjacent to our
main search area, on the north side of the highway. We have chosen this area
because, over the course of the search, this will provide the media with a clear
view of the search area and the investigation taking place within it. This area
will be open for media attendance from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each day. Today
it will be open from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The restricted access is due to the
fact that we don’t have the resources available to facilitate the media for
longer periods of time. There will not be any interviews granted at the staging
area. The sole purpose of this area is to provide an opportunity for the
photographers and reporters to obtain photos and view the scene.
The media are asked to please have media identification on their person when
they attend the site. We are also requesting that the media enter the access
area while approaching on the highway from the east, due to the fact that it is
too dangerous for their vehicles to enter this access area from the west. If you
are traveling from the west, please continue 1.2 kilometers past the media
staging area to the Hayward and Donatelli intersection. At this point you will
be able to make a safe and legal turn to approach the staging area from the
east. These rules will be strictly enforced by police officers on scene so we
are asking for the cooperation of the media.
Presented by: RCMP Cpl. Catherine Gallliford and VPD Detective/Cst. Sheila
Sullivan
Released by Cpl. Pierre Lemaitre, Stragegic Communications Unit, "E" Division HQ
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Update: Missing Women Joint Task Force
Monday, March 17th, 2003
The Missing Women Joint Task Force is in the process of doubling the number of
anthropology specialists currently searching 14 acres of farm property in Port
Coquitlam, BC. The Task Force is hiring 51 additional anthropologists from
across Canada to join the 52 who have been searching the property since June
3rd, 2002. These specialists are at various stages of their academic careers and
have been selected by the Task Force for their expertise in Human Osteology.
25 of the new specialists started working on the property early this month,
while 26 will begin in early May. Their job is to thoroughly search the soil on
the property, which initially was divided into 216 grids, each measuring 20 x 20
metres. They will be manning new equipment, including screeners and conveyor
belts, which will enable them to thoroughly search the soil for anything which
holds potential evidentiary value. The additional equipment and manpower will
double the search capacity of the ongoing investigation on the property, which
began in February 2002.
In addition to the 103 anthropology positions, there are presently 36
investigators and support staff on the site. The Task Force expects the search
to continue until at least the fall of 2003.
Released by:
Cst. Catherine Galliford
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Cst. Sarah Bloor
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
Missing Women Joint Task Force Locates on the 63
missing women
December 4, 2002
The Missing Women Joint Task Force has located one of the 63 women missing from
Vancouver's Downtown Eastside.
Tanya Colleen Emery, 38, has been located residing in central Canada. She was
reported missing by a concerned relative in March of this year and the Task
Force began investigating her disappearance. She was added to the official list
of missing women in July. Emery told investigators that she was unaware she had
been reported missing
The number of women missing from the Downtown Eastside now stands at 62.
Released by:
Cst. Cate Galliford
RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Cst. Sarah Bloor
Vancouver Police - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
Statement Issued by Joint Missing Task Force (with
Update) - November 27, 2002 @ 10:30 am
Galliford, Cst.
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Sarah Bloor, Cst.
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
November 27, 2002
The Missing Women Joint Task Force is seeking public assistance in locating four
women. Two of these women match the profile that the task force is interested
in. The other two women do not match the profile, however, they are outstanding,
historical missing person cases and the task force is hoping that someone has
information which may assist in locating them.
Marilyn Ann Moore (Image 1)
Date of Birth: 1951 Sept. 25
Date Last Seen: 1985 Apr. 11
Reported Missing: 1986 Jun. 25
Moore is a caucasian female, 5'6" tall, with brown hair and hazel eyes. She has
a history of drug use but there is no indication of involvement in the sex
trade. Moore's family, residing in the United States, lost contact with her
in1982 when she was living in Vancouver. They traveled to Vancouver in 1986 in
an attempt to locate her and, when they were unsuccessful, they reported her
missing.
Verna Littlechief (Image 2)
Date of Birth: 1944 Jul. 02
Date Last Seen: 1978
Reported Missing: 2002 Mar. 04
Littlechief is a native female, 5'2" tall, with black, shoulder length hair.
Littlechief was involved in the sex trade in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside and
has a history of alcohol abuse. Her family reported her missing last March to
the RCMP in Saskatchewan as a result of the extensive media attention
surrounding the missing women investigation. Littlechief may also be known as
Bernie Roberts.
Lenora Elizabeth Olding (Image 3)
Date of Birth: 1967 Sept. 27
Date Last Seen: 1986 Oct. 16
Reported Missing: 1986 Oct.18
Olding is a caucasian female, 5'5" tall, 130 lbs., with black hair and brown
eyes. She was last seen leaving her Vancouver residence in 1986. There is no
indication that Olding was a substance abuser and she was not involved in the
sex trade.
xxxxxxx xxxxxxx (Image 4)
Date of Birth: 1945 May 02
Date Last Seen: 1999 Feb. 22
Reported Missing: 1999 Feb. 23
xxxxxxx is a caucasian female 5'8" tall, 140 lbs., with long, blond hair.
xxxxxxxx does not have a history involving drugs or the sex trade. She did
reside in Vancouver at the time of her disappearance, but was not known to
frequent the Downtown Eastside.
xxxxxxxx and Olding will not be added to the official list of Missing Women as
they do not match the profile. Littlechief and Moore will not be added at this
time. The Joint Missing Women Task Force will wait to see if this media release
generates any tips that assist us in locating them. If they are not located we
will consider adding them to the official list. As it stands the official list
of Missing Women remains at 63.
Anyone with information that might assist investigators in locating these women
is asked to call the Missing Women Joint Task Force at 1-877-687-3377,
Crimestoppers at 604-669-TIPS or a local police agency.
Image 1: Marilyn Ann Moore
Image 2: Verna Littlechief
Image 3: Lenora Elizabeth Olding
Image 4: xxxxxxxx xxxxxxx
Released for:
Cate Galliford, Cst.
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Sarah Bloor, Cst.
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MEDIA ADVISORY - Joint Missing Women Task Force
MEDIA ADVISORY: News Briefing to be held Wednesday November 27, 2002
A news briefing by the Joint Missing Women Task Force will be held today
(Wednesday) to seek public assistance in locating four missing women.
DATE: Wednesday November 27, 2002
LOCATION: Vancouver Police Department
Media Briefing/Conference Room
2120 Cambie Street
TIME: Immediately after 10:30 am VPD Deps.
Cst. Cate Galliford and Cst. Sarah Bloor spokespersons for the Joint Task Force
will be available. Their statements issued at the briefing will be posted on the
RCMP Media Website at www.rcmp-bcmedia.ca.
Released for:
Cate Galliford, Cst.
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Sarah Bloor, Cst.
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
RCMP Media/Communications, .
"E" Division
5255 Heather Street
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: (604)264-2929
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MEDIA ADVISORY: News Briefing to be held Wednesday
November 27, 2002
November 25, 2002
A news briefing by the Joint Missing Women Task Force will be held tomorrow
(Wednesday) to seek public assistance in locating four missing women.
DATE: Wednesday November 27, 2002
LOCATION: Vancouver Police Department
Media Briefing/Conference Room
2120 Cambie Street
TIME: Immediately after 10:30 am VPD Deps.
Cst. Cate Galliford and Cst. Sarah Bloor spokespersons for the Joint Task Force
will be available. Their statements issued at the briefing will be posted on the
RCMP Media Website at www.rcmp-bcmedia.ca.
Released for:
Cate Galliford, Cst.
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Sarah Bloor, Cst.
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
NEWS MEDIA RESPONSE
Missing Women Joint Task Force File: 2002E-1388
Friday, November 22, 2002
There have been a number of questions from the news media today (November 22,
2002) related to the Missing Women Joint Task Force. The following response from
RCMP Constable Catherine Galliford and Vancouver Police Department Constable
Sarah Bloor is in response to those questions.
==============================
The Missing Women Joint Task Force would like to clarify some misinformation
that has been reported by the news media over the last 24 hours.
Members of the task force did, in fact, meet last week with the family of Marnie
Frey, one of the women missing from Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. The task
force has said in the past that we are obligated to share certain information
with the families of the missing women, however, that obligation does not extend
to the media.
Some of the news media have reported that we had similar conversations recently
with other families as well. This is not the case. This incorrect information
has caused many of the families to believe that our task force has been
witholding information from them and this is simply not true. When we have
information that directly effects only one family and where charges have not yet
been laid, we will share the information only with the family immediately
effected.
When we receive important information which must be shared with all of the
families it is done as soon as possible, in most cases in just a matter of hours
after we receive the information. We have said many times in the past that these
families are our priority and this has not changed.
We want to once again express our committment to the families that when we have
information to share with them it will be done in as timely a manner as
possible. When we have new information to share with the news media it will be
done through our regular news updates and conferences.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MISSING WOMEN JOINT TASK FORCE - NEWS MEDIA UPDATE
(Correction)
October 24th, 2002
The Missing Women Joint Task Force has completed an extensive search of the
Burns Road property in Port Coquitlam, BC. The search of the 11 acre property,
which began last April, will shut down on Friday, October 25th and most of the
17 investigators from this site will join the ongoing police search of a nearby
farm on Dominion Road.
Both the Burns Road and Dominion Road properties are co-owned by Robert William
Pickton who, since February 2002, has been charged with fifteen counts of first
degree murder in connection with the missing women investigation.
The search of the Burns Road property involved a highly specialized application
of the latest forensic investigative tools. The site was divided into grids and
an extensive surface search was conducted. Two excavators were utilized to move
large piles of debris, including heavy aluminum roofing sheets, timber and steel
beams, in order for the investigators to search through and underneath piles.
Seven buildings, including a building called "Piggy's Palace," a warehouse where
large parties used to be held, were subject to a search pattern that at times
called for hundreds of grid patterns of only a few inches square to be
established. In order to conduct as through an examination as possible of a
priority area, a makeshift house on the property had to be torn down in order
for investigators to sift through the soil beneath it.
As part of the search, investigators at times had to dismantle components of a
building or shed and then re-establish or replace the wiring and lighting. In
other cases major cleanup was first required of an area prior to police
scientists conducting their search. As an example of the attention to detail,
investigators at one search spot involving a small outdoor pond first safety
secured the fish in the pond, drained and searched the pond, and then released
the fish back into the re-freshened water.
The nature and scope of the investigation required the search to be conducted in
such an exhaustive manner. Although investigators have completed this portion of
the investigation we cannot comment on the results. Family members of the
missing women associated with the Joint Task Force have been notified of the
situation at Burns Road.
For more information please contact:
RCMP Cst. Catherine Galliford 604.543.4861
Vancouver Police Detective Scott Driemel 604.717.2681
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Missing Women Joint Task - News Briefing 11:00 a.m.
MISSING WOMEN JOINT TASK FORCE - NEWS BRIEFING
Statement presented by RCMP Cst. Catherine Galliford and Vancouver Police
Detective Scott Driemel
=========================================
(Det. Scott Driemel, VPD Joint Task Force Spokesperson ): As you are aware, this
morning provincial Crown prosecutors announced that four additional charges of
first degree murder have been laid against Robert William Pickton of Port
Coquitlam.
This brings the total number of murder charges against Mr. Pickton to 15.
Today's charges are in relation to the following missing women who were last
scene at various locations throughout the Lower Mainland:
Heather Gabrielle Chinnock, Inga Monique Hall, Tanya Marlo Holyk, and Sherry
Leigh Irving
Heather Chinnock was born on November 10th, 1970. She was last seen in April,
2001 and reported missing the following June. (Image 1)
Inga Hall was born on January 25, 1952. She was last seen in February, 1998, and
reported missing in March of the same year. (Image 2)
Tanya Holyk was born on December 8, 1975. She was last seen in October, 1996 and
reported missing in November, 1997. (Image 3)
Sherry Irving was born on March 19, 1973. She was last seen in April of 1997 and
reported missing the following March. (Image 4)
The new charges against Mr. Pickton stem from the ongoing police investigation
and the continuing search of farm property in Port Coquitlam. Because this case
is before the courts we cannot discuss the precise nature of the investigation
or comment on any exhibits that may be presented to the court.
We can say that this is a very complex investigation, that it involves more than
the search of a specific site, and that police are being as methodical, careful,
and thorough as possible. By way of background to you, here's how a search of an
extensive physical property is typically conducted after the execution of a
search warrant.
(Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson): A property is
typically given an initial overall assessment by investigators. A grid pattern
for searching is then designed. Police investigators and forensic specialists
then very meticulously follow the search pattern designated in the grid. This is
a sequential search pattern where we move slowly from one strep to the next. In
a complex search great care is taken not to contaminate possible exhibits or a
crime scene. That's why police don't just rush to what may appear to the average
person as an obvious search point.
Generally speaking, in some very detailed searches, police and forensic
scientists may spend days just on the entrance to a room or some other area.
Searches actually can get right down to molecular details. This is why it can
take a very long time to complete a search. It is also why literally, in some
cases, no stone goes unturned.
We want to go on record as recognizing the tremendous work that the various
police labs are doing in this case and the long hours being put in by
specialists in various branches of forensic science. This case is now the
largest serial killer investigation in Canadian history. This case is also
employing some of the most advanced state-of-the-art scientific techniques
available.
It is also important to clarify some misinformation regarding the missing women
investigation which has been reported in the media recently. There have been
reports that our investigation is somehow connected to an ongoing missing person
investigation in North Vancouver. This is not the case. There is no connection
between the two investigations.
(Det. Scott Driemel) : DNA is now a common tool utilized by police investigators
and it is easy to understand how one high profile case involving DNA samples may
be erroneously linked to other cases involving DNA.
We have received many recent questions from the media about the number of DNA
exhibits related to this case that have been forwarded to police labs. We have
also received many questions about the type of DNA which has been found.
It is extremely important for police investigators to maintain the integrity of
any ongoing investigation, especially when there are charges before the courts
in relation to that investigation. Going into detail about our exhibits may harm
our case. That is a risk we will not take under any circumstances. We can tell
you that our labs are using the best in science and technology. They have been
handling numerous exhibits quickly and efficiently and we are receiving results
in a very timely manner.
On a related matter...we have received reports that one of our missing, Richard
Kellie Little, has been seen In Chilliwack. We have been unable to confirm those
reports and are asking, once again, for public assistance in locating this
person. Richard - or Kellie - is an aboriginal transsexual who was born on March
12, 1969. This individual is 5 feet, 3 inches tall, weighs 119 pounds, has light
brown hair, brown eyes and a cleft palate.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MEDIA ADVISORY: JOINT MISSING WOMEN TASK FORCE NEWS
BRIEFING
October 2, 2002
The news briefing will be held by the Joint Missing Women Task Force today.
DATE: Wednesday October 2, 2002
LOCATION: RCMP "E" Division H.Q.
Media Briefing/Conference Room - Main floor
5255 Heather St. Vancouver, BC
TIME: 11:00 a.m.
Cst. Cate Galliford and Det. Scott Driemel spokespersons for the Joint Missing
Women Task Force will be available. Their statements issued at the briefing will
be posted on the RCMP Media Website.
Released for:
Cate Galliford, Cst.
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Scott Driemel, Det
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MISSING WOMEN JOINT TASK FORCE - NEWS BRIEFING
Investigation which do not include the farm. The file review process is still ongoing
and our task force is following up on tips as well as other investigative
avenues. This has been, and will continue to be, a slow and methodical process
with no definitive time frame involved.
Released for:
Cst. Cate Galliford
RCMP Joint Missing Women Task Force Spokesperson
and
Scott Driemel, Detective
Vancouver Police Joint Missing Women Task Force Spokesperson
September 19, 2002
Statement issued by RCMP Joint Missing Women Task Force Cst. Catherine
Galliford. (Vancouver Police Detective Scott Driemel is unavailable)
Today the Provincial Crown has announced that four additional counts of first
degree murder have been laid against Robert William Pickton of Port Coquitlam.
These additional charges have been laid in relation to the following missing
women:
Jennifer Lynn Furminger
Helen Mae Hallmark
Patricia Rose Johnson
Georgina Faith Papin
Jennifer Furminger was born on October 22, 1971. She was last seen on December
27th, 1999 and reported missing on March 30th, 2000. (Photo below as Image 1)
Helen Hallmark was born on June 24th, 1966. She was last seen on June 15th, 1997
and reported missing on September 23rd, 1998. (Photo below as Image 2)
Patricia Johnson was born on December 2nd, 1976. She was last seen on March 3rd,
2001 and reported missing on May 31st, 2001. (Photo below as Image 3)
Georgina Papin was born on March 11th, 1964. She was last seen on March 2nd,
1999 and reported missing on March 14th, 2001. (Photo below as Image 4)
In addition to today's four charges, Robert Pickton is facing seven other counts
of first degree murder. Those charges relate to Sereena Abotsway, Heather
Bottomley, Andrea Joesbury, Jacquelene McDonell, Dianne Rock, Mona Wilson and
Brenda Wolfe.
Crown Counsel has indicated that Robert Pickton's next scheduled court
appearance is Wednesday, October 2nd.
It has been a couple of months since we've updated the media on our
investigation and on our ongoing search of two properties in Port Coquitlam, so
I would like to take this opportunity to update all of you now.
Our search at the Port Coquitlam farm property is continuing, along with the
search of the Burns Road property. Right now the two search sites combined are
staffed with 91 people, including police officers, anthropology and archaeology
specialists and clerical and support staff.
The farm property has been divided into grids which are being thoroughly
searched. We still have 52 archaeology specialists assisting us by manning four
conveyor belts of sifted soil, looking for anything which may assist us in this
investigation. We are unable to go into any detail regarding any of the material
being seized during this search. Anything that may assist this investigation
will be seized as an exhibit and presented before the courts at the appropriate
time.
In July we asked the public for any information they might have that could
assist us in locating nine additional missing women. To date, we have been
unsuccessful in locating those women and our list of missing stands at 63. These
are women who match the profile of those missing from Vancouver's Downtown
Eastside and our investigators are continuing to review outstanding missing
women cases to see if those fit the same profile.
This continues to be a multi-tiered process and there are many aspects of this
investigation.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MEDIA ADVISORY!!!! NEWS CONFERENCE TODAY AT 9:30 AM
September 19, 2002
VANCOUVER, BC: The Joint Missing Women Task Force will be holding a news
conference this morning at 9:30 am.
LOCATION: Vancouver Police Department
2120 Cambie Street, Vancouver, BC
Media DEPS room
TIME: 9:30 AM
DATE: Thursday September 19, 2002
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Missing Women Task Force - Change of Order of
Images
Please note the images of the missing women posted at 1:32 pm were posted with
the incorrect corresponding names.
The names corresponding to the photos were corrected at 1:55 pm. Please see
original news release posted at 1:32 pm today on the website for correct
version.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MISSING WOMEN JOINT TASK FORCE - NEWS MEDIA UPDATE
-PLEASE NOTE NEW ORDER OF IMAGES WITH NAMES
1:55 PM Please note order of images has changed. See correct order of images
with corresponding names at end of release.
MISSING WOMEN JOINT TASK FORCE
NEWS MEDIA UPDATE
JULY 25th, 2002 – 1300 HOURS (1 PM)
ROYAL CANADIAN MOUNTED POLICE
"E" DIVISION HEADQUARTERS
Presented by RCMP Cst. Catherine Galliford
(Vancouver Police Detective Scott Driemel is on vacation)
The Missing Women's Joint Task Force is looking for public assistance in
locating nine women. While the individuals are not yet officially on the list of
women whose whereabouts are being investigated by the Task Force, their current
status is very important to the case.
Anyone knowing the whereabouts of the following people is asked to contact the
Missing Women's Joint Task Force at telephone number 1-877-687-3377 or to
contact a local police agency.
The women, all of whom lived in the Downtown Eastsid of Vancouver, are:
Yvonne Marlene Abigosis, born November 23d, 1957, last seen on January 1st, 1984
and reported missing on May 22nd, 2002. Yvonne is aboriginal and when last seen
was 5 feet, six inches tall, weighed 120 pounds, had long wavy black hair, and
brown eyes.
Wendy Louise Allen, born December 10th, 1945. Louise was last seen on March
30th, 1979 and reported missing on April 5th, 2002. Louise is Caucasian and when
last seen was 5 feet, six inches tall, 162 pounds, and had long brown hair and
blue eyes.
Dawn Lynn Cooper, born May 4th, 1964. Dawn was last seen in 1996 and reported
missing on June 26th, 2002. Dawn is Caucasian and when last seen was 5 feet, six
inches tall, weighed 125 pounds, had brown hair and brown eyes.
Sheryl Donahue, born July 4th, 1963. Sheryl was last seen on May 30th, 1985 and
reported missing on August 31st, 1985. Sheryl is Caucasian and when last seen
was 5 feet 4 inches tall, 166 pounds, had long blond hair and blue eyes.
Tanya Colleen Emery, born October 6th, 1964. Tanya was last seen on December 1st
1998 and reported missing on March 13th, 2002. Tanya is Caucasian and when last
seen was 5 feet, seven inches tall, 140 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.
Linda Louise Grant, born March 18th, 1953. Linda was last seen in October of
1984 and reported missing on February 2nd, 1996. Linda is Caucasian and when
last seen was 5 feet, 2 inches tall, 171 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.
Richard "Kellie" Little, born March 12th, 1969. Richard – or Kellie – was last
seen on April 23d, 1997 and reported missing on April 30th, 1997. The individual
is an aboriginal transsexual. When last seen they were 5 feet, 3 inches tall,
weighed 119 pounds, and had light brown hair and brown eyes. Richard, also known
as Kellie, has a noticeable cleft palate.
Teresa Louise Triff, born August 17th, 1969. Teresa was last seen on April 15th,
1993 and reported missing on March 21st, 2002. Teresa is Caucasian. When last
seen she was 5 feet, 2 inches tall, weighed 111 pounds and had blonde curly hair
and blue eyes.
Lillian Jean O'Dare, born January 8th, 1944. Lillian was last seen on September
12th, 1978 and reported missing on the same day. Lillian is Caucasian and when
last seen was 5 feet, 6 inches tall, of average build, with short reddish blonde
hair. Police are hoping to not only gain information about the whereabouts of
Lillian but to contact any family member or relative even if they have no
information about her.
We at the Missing Women Joint Task Force also have a message for the news media.
From the day we executed search warrants at a farm property in Port Coquitlam
until today, you've played a major role in helping police not only track down
the whereabout of missing women, but also in getting people to come forward with
new information.
We just wanted to thank you for that.
Since the Missing Women's Joint Task Force was created in 2001, the Vancouver
Police Department and the RCMP have spent – and continue to spend – a lot of
time doing reviews of historic files. We've been looking at information in a new
context, something that is easier in hindsight when there's more information to
work with. This is an incredibly complex case with webs of connections that are
sometimes obvious and sometimes not and sometimes changing and often
disappearing.
But the news media have helped us do our job.
Since February of this year, the Missing Women's Joint Task Force, through its
ongoing file review, has located the whereabouts of 21 women. Of those, 19 have
been found alive while 2 were confirmed dead due to reasons unrelated to this
file. Of those found alive, 18 have been found in various provinces across
Canada while one woman was tracked down to Borneo. This means many families and
friends have found closure or peace of mind just in the past 6 months.
This is the result of very detailed and time-intensive police work involving
many police officers, partner agencies, and support staff. In future updates to
you we are going to lay out the anatomy of just how such an investigation
unfolds. Helping in that police work is the publicity that the news media
generates not only nationally, but internationally.
Image 1: Dawn Lynn Cooper (3 photos)
Image 2: Linda Louise Grant (2 photos)
Image 3: Richard "Kellie" Little (2 photos)
Image 4: Teresa Louise Triff (2 photos)
Image 5: Wendy Louise Allen (photo taken in 1970's on left/ age enhancement
photo on right)
Image 6: Yvonne Marlene Abigosis
*There are no photos of Sheryl Donahue and LillianJean O'Dare*
Please note: Photo image of Tanya Colleen Emery was removed on December 4, 2002
as she was located safe and sound. See update release issued on December 4,
2002.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MISSING WOMEN JOINT TASK FORCE NEWS MEDIA ADVISORY
Please be advised that the Missing Women Joint Task Force will be holding a news
conference at 1:00 PM on THURSDAY, JULY 25th, 2002 at the RCMP Headquarters
located at 5255 Heather Street, Vancouver.
NEWS CONFERENCE
THURSDAY JULY 25th, 2002
1:00 PM
RCMP HEADQUARTERS
5255 Heather Street,Vancouver, BC
The purpose of the news conference is to seek public assistance in locating 9
women who are not currently named on the list of women whose disappearance is
under investigation by the Joint Task Force comprised of the Vancouver Police
Department and the RCMP.
It is possible the 9 women will be officially added to the list if not located.
In addition, other updates will be provided to reporters. As always, details of
the news conference will be available on the RCMP news media web site (including
pictures) following the 1:00 PM session.
Please ensure you give yourself ample time for parking and set up, as entry into
the conference room will be restricted after 1:00 pm. This is to minimize
disruption during the conference.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
News Media: FACTS OF INTEREST
July 16, 2002
The following information is provided to the news media and public as a regular,
"on the record" information source related to the Missing Women Joint Task Force
Investigation headed by the Vancouver Police Department and the Royal Canadian
Mounted Police. For additional information please contact RCMP Cst. Catherine
Galliford at Cate.Galliford@rcmp-grc.gc.ca and/or Vancouver Police Detective
Scott Driemel at Scott_Driemel@city.vancouver.bc.ca
==============================================
TODAY'S TOPIC: Modern science plays a major role in Missing Women Joint Task
Force Investigation
Viewers of popular television crime shows are well acquainted with how modern
science can play a major role in solving crime. In fictional versions of
high-tech crime busting, investigators schooled in the intricate and complex
world of forensics, pathology, and anthropology combine talents to use
microscopes and lasers instead of guns to bring criminals to justice.
At Canada's largest-ever crime scene investigation located on an urban farm
property in Port Coquitlam, near Vancouver, British Columbia, a small army of
police investigators, scientists, and specialists are applying the latest in
technology and forensic investigative tools to try and unravel mysteries
surrounding the disappearance of 54 women missing predominately from the
Eastside of Vancouver over the past 13 years.
The difference between the Port Coquitlam crime scene and a TV show is that the
answers at Port Coquitlam won't be found within an hour - including commercial
breaks. The search now underway at the site could take well over a year. Where
there is a parallel with fictional drama is the highly specialized training and
remarkable expertise being brought to bear on solving the case - scientific
expertise that comes from some of the best universities in the country.
Since February of 2002, Robert William Pickton, a co-owner of the Port Coquitlam
farm has been charged with seven counts of first degree murder. All the charges
stem from work of the Missing Women Task Force at the farm site. Most of the
charges have come from not only hundreds of hours of old-fashioned police leg
work - finding and interviewing individuals that are often hard to find - but
from the precise and painstakingly detailed work of scientists and forensic
experts.
The excavation and recovery team consists of 51 anthropologists specializing in
archaeology and human osteology, representing universities from across Canada,
in particular, the University of Toronto, University of Manitoba, University of
Saskatchewan, University of Alberta, and Simon Fraser University. Two members of
the team are Canadian students studying abroad. The team members are at various
stages of their academic careers ranging from upper undergraduate to PhD
candidates. All have experience identifying human bone from fragments as small
as a fingernail to complete elements, under different circumstances and in a
variety of contexts.
Members of the team were selected for their ability to recognize bones in
diverse states of decay that have been exposed to factors ranging from fire to
water. The job involves careful attention to detail and intense concentration.
Team members stand over four conveyor belts examining soil that has come through
a sifter. The soil comes from the farm site, which has been divided into 216
search grids of 20 x 20 metres each. Since June 3rd, when students were brought
on the site, 12.5 grids have been fully examined. Geologists estimate that there
are 165,000 cubic metres of surface soil above ground that must be sifted and
searched. This does not include the soil below the surface, whose volume of
interest cannot be estimated at this point.
As the team members examine the sifted soil on the conveyor belt they search for
bone and other material with potential forensic value. The Osteologists take the
material they recover to a special processing area. Procedures to maintain and
secure the possible DNA viability of each item are carefully followed. Each item
that is seized is thoroughly examined and documented. The potential evidence is
redirected to various specialists for additional analysis and documentation. For
example, all bone is examined by a Forensic Anthropologist to determine its
significance to the case.
Forensic Anthropologists are experts in distinguishing animal from human bone,
providing a biological profile of human skeletal remains (age, sex, ancestry),
and analyzing trauma to bone. There are two Forensic Anthropologists assisting
the police with this investigation, Dr. Tracy Rogers from the University of
Toronto and a second from the University of Alberta. Both have several years of
casework experience, are members of professional forensic and anthropological
associations, and have testified as experts in murder/homicide trials in their
respective provincial Supreme Courts.
Released for:
Cst. Cate Galliford
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Det. Scott Driemel
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
NEWS MEDIA RESPONSE
June 25th, 2002
Missing Women Joint Task Force
There have been a number of questions from the news media today (June 25th,
2002) related to the Missing Women's Joint Task Force. The following joint
response from RCMP Constable Catherine Galliford and Vancouver Police Department
Detective Scott Driemel is in response to those questions:
=======================
What we can say is that the Missing Women's Joint Task Force is not issuing any
new statements at this time related to the investigation or search. From the
beginning the Missing Women's Joint Task Force has said that any conversations
we might have with family members are private ones. That situation has not
changed.
This is an ongoing investigation that involves many continuing facets. What we
have is a very complex, ongoing search and investigation that also involves
seven charges of murder now before the courts. We continue to pursue all avenues
necessary and to utilize all the investigative skills possible.
When we have concrete information and facts to convey to the media and public we
will do so officially through our regular new updates and conferences.
Released by:
Cst. Cate Galliford
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Det. Scott Driemel
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Missing Women Task Force - News Briefing @ 11:00
a.m.
June 6th, 2002
Statement issued to by the Joint Task Force at 11:00 a.m.
(Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson) Thank you for coming.
We apologize to those of you who expected to have this briefing near the search
site. We indicated on Tuesday that such a venue would likely be the case, but of
course, things change. Logistically this location has turned out to be the best.
You still have an opportunity to be able to view the soil sifting equipment that
is starting up today. The conveyor belt in particular is close to the fenced
area located near the local, adjacent golf course. The view...on property
outside the fence...and which is not subject to our search warrant...gives
reporters a good vantage point.
We are not in a position to guide your news gathering beyond the above
suggestion. Please remember that we are dealing with a crime scene.
Investigators are actively executing a search warrant. You know from experience
that police in Canada cannot...in accordance with privacy statutes...invite the
news media along when executing a search warrant.
A good example is when we do drug busts...like when we take down a marijuana
grow operation. Inviting the media along would make great television but also a
great nightmare for prosecutors requiring exhibits that are still usable in a
court of law.As you know, news images can result in crime exhibits being
excluded from court evidence.
(Det. Scott Driemel) We, as police, are walking a very delicate and dangerous
tightrope of information. There are lots of things the news media WANT to know.
There are things that family members NEED to know. And there is information the
general public SHOULD know.
Want to know...need to know...and should know...are very different categories of
information. The fact is...there are now seven murder charges connected to this
ongoing investigation and search for missing women. The fact is...what some
people WANT to know about this case is the kind of information...that if made
public...could jeopardize a fair trial...could jeopardize a prosecution.
We...as police...don't think that should happen. We don't believe that needs to
happen. And we have a legal responsibility – as part of the criminal justice
system – to not let it happen.
We are now going to provide you with technical information about the kind of
equipment that is on site at the crime scene...and information about the
scientists brought onto the site.
(Cst. Cate Galliford) One thing we are NOT going to comment on allegations
raised by the news media about potential exhibits seized during the course of
this investigation.
There's increasing public commentary about the impact of sensational reporting
on the ability of any accused to have a fair trial...and there's even growing
public debate about the basic motivation for such reporting. We will leave that
debate outside this room.
Now here is what is happening at the farm site.
A detailed forensic-archeological search of the 14-acre farm property is now
underway. On site, and actively working, are about 26 scientific experts with
formal training in Human Osteology, a sub-speciality of archeology. What these
experts are doing is carefully examining soil samples being carried on a
conveyor belt. The soil, from the search site, is first screened for larger
material. What these osteology experts are trained to do is differentiate
between small rocks and other soil material, and foreign matter that might be of
interest to investigators.
The osteology experts are mostly very serious students and are part of a pool of
about 50 upper-level students and graduates of the specialized field who have
been selected to work at the site. The experts have been selected from
universities from across Canada. The number of osteology specialists on site may
grow as the need occurs.
( Det. Scott Driemel) This is a crime scene. Prior to being selected, the
Osteology Team members had to sign a non-disclosure statement, have a police
security background check, and were apprised that any unauthorized release of
information could constitute a breach of law.
Also on site is a variety of heavy equipment that is used for soil excavation
and sorting. For example, there is a soil screener and two 50-foot flat conveyor
belts. In addition there is a rubber tire loader, an excavator, and two dump
trucks being used in the search. Like with everyone who steps foot on the site,
all personnel involved in the heavy equipment contracts have been required to
pass a police security check.
In addition to all that...we still have a strong compliment of police
investigators on the site who are using modern forensic science to carry out
their search.
This is a very slow, long, tedious process. Literally, no stone is left
unturned. Everything that is looked at must be carefully documented, recorded,
and catalogued. This is a unique and huge project and it will go on in a careful
and deliberate manner for a long time yet to come.
(Cst. Cate Galliford) In closing we want to remind you of our news media policy.
The information you receive on this case is provided through our joint briefings
and on our news media web site. That's where you can get the facts. There are NO
news media interviews granted outside of those two opportunities. However we
will take your questions and post what answers we can – on our web site. This is
the process we believe is fair to all journalists.
Released for:
Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Det. Scott Driemel, VPD Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MEDIA ADVISORY: News Briefing to be held Thursday June
6, 2002
June 6, 2002
A news briefing by the Missing Women Joint Task Force will be held tomorrow to
provide information about what is happening on the Port Coquitlam search site.
DATE: Thursday June 6, 2002
LOCATION: Vancouver Police Department
Media Briefing/Conference Room
2120 Cambie Street
TIME: 11:00 am
Cst. Cate Galliford and Det. Scott Driemel spokespersons for the Joint Task
Force will be available. Their statements issued at the briefing will be posted
on the RCMP Media Website at www.rcmp-bcmedia.ca.
Released for:
Cate Galliford, Cst.
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Scott Driemel, Det
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Statement Issued by the Missing Women Joint Task Force
June 4th, 2002
The recent expansion of the search of farmland related to the Missing Women Task
Force investigation has prompted significant news media interest. On Wednesday
the Task Force will provide a time and place for a media technical briefing
related to the current search. The technical briefing - likely to take place on
Thursday at the Port Coquitlam farm search site - will be followed with an
opportunity for news media to photograph or film the workings of some of the
major soil sifting equipment at the site. Please note that the opportunity to
shoot pictures will take place OUTSIDE of the gated search site in order to
protect the investigation and search process.
The Missing Women Joint Task Force would like to issue a plea to reporters from
family members. We have received complaints from family members who say some
news media stories have put them on an emotional roller coaster. What they are
simply asking for is an end to sensational speculation and to have time to deal
with what is already a very traumatic time in their lives.
The message we have conveyed to family members and to the public is that the
only information that can be considered totally accurate is that which is
officially released by the Joint Task Force. It is our continuing objective not
to release information that would jeopardize the accused rights to a fair trial.
It is understandable that this high-profile investigation and search creates
competitive pressures for the news media. However on behalf of the families
affected by this horrible tragedy, we and the victims services staff ask news
reporters to please recognize the deep emotional impact and trauma that can be
caused by their questions to family members.
There is information and there is sensation. One serves to inform and educate
and the other simply serves to titillate entertain. This investigation, this
search, and the ensuing court case will challenge many to appreciate the
difference.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Excavation to begin this week at Port Coquitlam farm
property
June 3, 2002
Joint Statement posted by Det. Scott Driemel (Vancouver Police Dept.) and Cst.
Catherine Galliford (RCMP)
A detailed forensic-archeological search of a 14-acre farm property will begin
this week, possibly Wednesday afternoon or Thursday morning (June 5th or 6th).
The search involves initial use of 26 scientific experts with formal training in
Human Osteology, a sub-speciality of archeology. The 26 experts are part of a
pool of about 50 upper-level students and graduates of the specialized field who
have been selected to work at the site. The experts have been selected from
universities from across Canada. The number of osteology specialists being used
may grow as the need occurs.
On Monday, June 3d, the Osteology Team will go through a basic orientation
including an explanation of pay and benefits, the issuance of picture
identification, reiteration of the absolute need for confidentiality, plus a
physical tour of the work site. Prior to being selected, the Osteology Team
members had to sign a non-disclosure statement, have a police security
background check, and were apprised that any unauthorized release of information
could constitute a breach of law.
Over the next few days heavy equipment will also be brought on site that will
serve as the source of work for the ostelogy specialists. As previously stated,
a soil screener is being brought on site as well as two 50-foot flat conveyor
belts. In addition there are a rubber tire loader, an excavator, and two tandum
dump trucks being used in the search. All personnel involved in the heavy
equipment contracts have been required to pass an RCMP Security check.
We understand that this new stage in our search can create many questions from
the media wanting details. Please understand that we are constrained by the
circumstances of this unusual situation. What we have is both an ongoing
investigation underway plus charges that have been laid against an individual.
Normally, once charges are laid and the court process is underway, it is not
appropriate for police officers to comment on the case.
For this reason we cannot and will not discuss specifics of this case,
especially if those comments may relate to information being presented to court.
More information on this search will be provided as details warrant.
Released by:
Det. Scott Driemel, VPD Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Missing Women Joint Task Force - News Briefing Advisory
May 22, 2002
A news briefing by the Missing Women Joint Task Force will be held today:
DATE: Wednesday May 22, 2002
LOCATION: RCMP "E" Division H.Q.
Media Briefing/Conference Room - Main floor
5255 Heather St. Vancouver, BC
TIME: 1:00 pm
Cst. Cate Galliford and Det. Scott Driemel spokespersons for the Joint Task
Force will be available. Their statements issued at the briefing will be posted
on the RCMP Media Website at
www.rcmp-bcmedia.ca.
Released for:
Cate Galliford, Cst.
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Scott Driemel, Det
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Missing Women Joint Task Force - News Briefing 1:00 pm
May 22, 2002
Statements issued by Missing Women Joint Task Force news Briefing at 1:00 pm:
(Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson) Thank for you coming.
This morning provincial Crown prosecutors announced that a seventh charge of
first degree murder has been laid against Robert William Pickton, age 52, of
Port Coquitlam. The most current charge relates to the death of Brenda Wolfe who
was born on October 20th 1968 and was last seen on February 1st, 1999. Ms. Wolfe
was reported missing on April 25th, 2000. (Photo attached below as Image 1)
Since February, Mr. Picton has been charged with first degree murder involving
the deaths of Heather Bottomly, Jacqueline MaDonell, Dianne Rock, Mona Wilson,
Sereena Abotsway, and Angela Joesbury.
Crown prosecutors have indicated that Mr. Pickton will appear in provincial
court tomorrow morning, Thursday, May 23d. The family of Ms. Wolfe has been
notified of her death. In addition, other family members of missing and deceased
women connected to the case have been notified by police.
In keeping with all other charges that have been brought before the court with
respect to this investigation, the Missing Women Joint Task Force is not going
to divulge any specific details regarding this latest charge. We can say that
the charge relates to the current search site on Dominion Avenue. As you know,
all matters related to an alleged crime only become evidence as such when
accepted by a court of law.
We are not going to discuss where the immediate family of Ms. Wolfe currently
resides. However those family members have asked us to convey this message to
you. The family of Ms. Wolfe is asking news reporters to please respect their
privacy during this intensely personal and emotional time.
We are also continuing to maintain our close contact with as many family members
of missing women as possible, providing them what details we can when we can.
(Det. Scott Driemel, VPD Joint Task Force Spokesperson) There is nothing more we
as police officers can say about the charges against Mr. Pickton. What we can do
now is answer some other questions that have come to us from reporters over the
past few days.
We can confirm that the Missing Women Joint Task is now finalizing the hiring
process related to the approximately 50 specialists in the science of human
osteology, a branch of archeology. We have more than enough excellent candidates
selected from hundreds of applications from across Canada and elsewhere.
The individuals who will be hired for a period ranging from a few months to a
year come from the academic and science community in Canada. They will start
work around the first week of June.
We will not go into the details of what these contracted scientists will be
doing. We will say that each person hired to assist in processing materials at
the search site have signed a confidentiality agreement and have gone through a
criminal record and background check. The individuals have also been told – in
very clear terms – that public disclosure about their work could result in not
only them getting fired but facing charges under relevant legislation. This is
in keeping with our ongoing commitment to maintaining the integrity of this
investigation and our recognition of a person's fundamental presumption of
innocence on all matters not yet heard in court.
(Cst. Cate Galliford) In addition, the Joint Task Force has issued tender calls
for a variety of excavating and screening equipment to assist in the search.
Those contract proposals are now being assessed and a decision will be made
soon. Again, we are not going into detail about each piece of equipment on site
or how it is being used. We will repeat that contractors of equipment must pass
police security checks and are liable to criminal prosecution should they
release confidential information related to this case.
We can report that search activity at the Burns Road site in Port Coquitlam is
still in the assessment stage. Once we know more precise details about the
extent of the search we will let you know.
Finally, questions have been asked if the Missing Women Joint Task Force is
looking at other suspects. We have said from the beginning and will say again
that this is a incredibly complex case with many possible interconnections.
Seven murder charges have been laid to date against one individual.
There is still much to investigate and a very long search period ahead of us. We
are very well coordinated in our efforts, we are using the best of science and
technology, and we will not waver from our continuing and careful dedication to
solving the mystery of the missing women.
We will now take just a few questions. Please remember that a court process in
underway, many charges have been laid, and our ability to answer questions is
now significantly narrowed.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Missing Women Joint Task Force - Q & A Update
May 6, 2002
NEWS MEDIA UPDATE
The following questions have arisen from the news media over the past week. As
is the ongoing practice of the Missing Women Joint Task Force, answers are being
provided to news agencies through the Missing Woman Joint Task Force web site:
The following answers are provided by Missing Women Joint Task Force
spokespeople Detective Scott Driemel, Vancouver Police Department and Constable
Cate Galliford, RCMP.
Q. Will police disclose details of which police department knew what and when in
relation the missing women case?
A. The Missing Women Joint Task Force is committed to providing full public
disclosure of key events and time lines to the appropriate and relevant public
bodies that may be examining this case. That sort of detail obviously cannot be
disclosed today while an investigation is underway, while court action is being
prepared in relation to the six murder charges against Robert William Pickton,
and while a civil suit is being launched against police.
Q. When did police departments first share information amongst departments about
the missing women case and in particular, any information about the Port
Coquitlam farm site?
A. What we can say in general is that police have continually shared information
on this very complicated case. We can't go into details because there is an
investigation underway, there are criminal charges before the court, and there
is a civil court action being launched. But let us make this very clear.
Information that was considered important and reliable within the context of the
day was dealt with quickly, with the necessary priority, and was shared with
those who needed to know.
At some point in time there may well be an official forum wherein the answers to
this question can be dealt with in an open and direct way. We have no problem
with that. In fact, both the Vancouver Police Department and RCMP are fully
committed to being part of any such process.
Q. Some people have come forward with claims alleging that police didn't listen
to them. Some of these claims and allegations are quite detailed. How do you
react to these claims?
A. Police are in a real tough situation when people make claims to the news
media. Even to prove an allegation wrong means police have to start discussing
matters of facts and evidence. But the proper and only forum for that is in
court. We can only ask that the public continue with their trust in us, and to
wait until the proper and legitimate forum takes place where all the facts will
be weighed.
Q. Reporters have seen police on the search site moving long pieces of pipe
around. What is going on?
A. On an ongoing basis you will see a variety of activity on the two search
sites that really relate to investigators getting settled into what is going to
be a very long search. It will not be unusual to see vehicles and various
machinery come and go and being utilized, various tents going up and down, and
other activity you can associate with a large site. It is not practical for us
to question investigators and then provide answers to reporters on every
activity noticed on site. This would include required materials that are
necessary in the daily examination of the sites. Please appreciate that
investigators are extremely busy and we are trying to give them as much freedom
as possible to do their job.
Q. Have you found any more DNA or human remains on the search site and have you
determined the gender of the remains you have found?
A. Again it is very important to be very clear that police cannot, because of
our role in the criminal justice system, discuss any information that might
exist or may be destined for court.
Released by:
Cst. Cate Galliford
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Det. Scott Driemel
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Missing Women Task Force - News Briefing @ 12:00
pm
ta, and Abbotsford.
From the Royal Canadian Mounted Police perspective, the Missing Women case
involves the national police force doing what it is designed to do. It is
designed to quickly adjust to changing circumstances, taking advantage of a
built-in ability to redeploy resources as needed while ensuring the continued
safety of communities.
We have also been asked to comment on a recent decision by some family members
to hire independent legal counsel. The Joint Task Force can only say that we
respect the right of families to do what they feel is important to them.
We will continue to work with...and share with families...that information we
can responsibly release...while meeting our legal obligations.
Joint Missing Women Task Force - News Briefing
Statement issued:
(Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson) This morning...at
about 8 am...the Missing Women Joint Task Force executed a warrant allowing
police to search a property located on Burns Road in Port Coquitlam. This search
will continue for a number of weeks and is related to the ongoing investigation
by the Joint Task Force.
As you know, the Joint Task Force has for several weeks been conducting a search
on a nearby property located on Dominion Avenue in Port Coquitlam.
Let us be clear about what we can and cannot tell you.
We cannot tell you the wording of the search warrant and what we are searching
for. That is because the search warrant has been sealed by the court, meaning
all information contained in it is not available for public information.
We, as police officers, cannot tell you who owns the property we are searching.
To you and the public, this may appear like avoiding the obvious. But you can
say things we cannot say. As part of the criminal justice system police must
respect the right to fair process, and the presumed innocence of people until a
court deems otherwise.
(Det. Scott Driemel, VPD Joint Task Force Spokesperson) While we cannot tell you
what wording is in the search warrant..we can say in general that the property
in question is about 11 acres in size. If you stood on the road adjacent to the
property you would see a number of vehicles including a large bus, about six
outbuildings, and a partially constructed home.
Currently we have seven investigators on the property conducting the search.
However this number will fluctuate according to need.
Police have erected a steel fence around the property to protect the integrity
of the search and there will be 24-hour security associated with the fence and
property. No one but police and associated personnel are being allowed on the
property.
Over the past week we have had a number of questions related to police resources
and how that may be affecting other investigations. First, related to the two
searches now underway, we have the resources and expertise required to do a
thorough and detailed search.
When and if we require additional expertise or equipment, those resources are
quickly made available. Right now there are still about 80 investigators
involved with searching, analysing, categorizing, and following up on tips
associated with the search warrant executed in February.
We have been asked what is happening to other cases and investigations as this
very detailed search unfolds. Some cases are being placed on a lower priority,
other cases are proceeding as before, and new cases are allocated the priority
required when they come in.
(Cst. Cate Galliford) Please remember that this is a very coordinated effort
involving the RCMP, the Vancouver Police Department plus other Lower Mainland
police departments including expertise from New Westminster, Del
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MEDIA ADVISORY - Weekly Joint Missing Women News
Briefing
April 17, 2002
The weekly news briefings by the Missing Women Joint Task Force will occur
today:
DATE: Wednesday April 17, 2002
LOCATION: RCMP "E" Division H.Q.
Media Briefing/Conference Room - Main floor
5255 Heather St. Vancouver, BC
TIME: 12:00 pm
Cst. Cate Galliford and Det. Scott Driemel spokespersons for the Joint Task
Force will be available. Their statements issued at the briefing will be posted
on the RCMP Media Website at www.rcmp-bcmedia.ca. French language services will
be provided at the briefing.
Released for:
Cate Galliford, Cst.
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Scott Driemel, Det
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Missing Women Task Force - News Briefing 11:00 am
at has to be done.
In anticipation of your questions, please understand that it would be
inappropriate, bordering on irresponsible, to speculate if or when any
additional charges could be laid against any individual or individuals with
respect to the Missing Women Case.
Besides our focus on the farm property, the Missing Women Joint Task Force is
sifting through hundreds of public tips received since February. Many of those
tips are valuable and are helping in the investigation. However as can be
expected, there are also tips that prove to be unsubstantiated, misleading, or
generally off the mark. However each tip is examined, correlated with existing
information, and treated seriously until proven otherwise.
(Det. Scott Driemel) Investigators from the Missing Women Joint Task Force are
also continuing with a close look at hundreds of other potential suspects and
separate pieces of information.
This investigation is not about collecting information that simply and quickly
locks together like a child=s building set. This investigation is about slowly
and carefully unravelling a very tangled web of knotted connections, loose
affiliations, and conflicting paths. What we learn one day can significantly
change the context of what we knew the week before or last year. But rest
assured that the unravelling has indeed started.
We would also like to address some of the questions that we have received from
reporters over the past few days with respect to this investigation:
(Cst. Cate Galliford) A question was raised about us bringing in specialized
equipment that has been used in the search at the World Trade Centre site. No
such decision has been made. We will use whatever resources are required when
they are needed and we will let you know when that happens.
A question was raised about how many tips we have received so far. The Missing
Women Joint Task Force has received over a thousand tips, many of them
attributable to coverage by local and regional news media. We do not break down
which news media is responsible for what tips.
There was a question related to how we feel about some family members
considering having their own legal counsel look into the handling of this case.
All we can say is that we respect their right to do whatever they feel is
necessary. We also understand that these are very emotional times for many, very
confusing times, and a time when there are still many questions.
From the begining, the Missing Women Joint Task Force has worked closely with
families and respected their need for information, for comfort, and for us to
have an open door with regard to their thoughts and ideas. We want to stress
that our door remains open to all families, and we remain committed to work
closely with them regardless of what decision they may make.
(Det. Scott Driemel) We have received several questions from reporters about the
backgrounds of the missing women, where they are from, and other personal data.
Please understand that in many cases it is difficult to say precisely where a
missing woman is recently from. We know where they were born and where they were
raised as children. But as adults, the women frequently moved from one location
to another over the past few years.
Released by:
Cst. Cate Galliford
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Det. Scott Driemel
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Joint Missing Women Task Force
News Briefing 11:00 am
Vancouver Police Dept. Headquarters
(Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson) Thank for you coming.
The Missing Women Joint Task Force is announcing that a sixth charge of first
degree murder has been laid against William Robert Pickton, age 52, of Port
Coquitlam. The most current charge relates to the death of Andrea Joesbury, (who
also goes by Angela) age 22. Ms. Josebury was reported missing on June 8th of
2001. ( Photo below as Image 1)
Since February, Mr. Picton has been charged with first degree murder involving
the deaths of Heather Bottomly, who was 24 years of age, Jacqueline Macdonnell,
age 25, Dianne Rock, age 33, Mona Wilson, age 26, and Sereena Abotsway, who was
29 years old when she was reported missing.
Yesterday there was a family memorial for Mona Wilson. We would like to extend
our sympathies to the family.
Mr. Pickton appeared in provincial court this morning to face the charge related
to Ms. Josesbury. The family of Ms. Josesbury was contacted on Monday by the
Missing Women Joint Task Force who notified them of her death. In addition, the
Joint Task Force began notifying all other family members of missing women early
this morning.
In keeping with all other charges that have been brought before the court with
respect to this investigation, the Missing Women Joint Task Force is not going
to divulge any specific details regarding this latest indictment.
(Det. Scott Driemel, VPD Joint Task Force Spokesperson) The Missing Women Joint
Task Force is today confirming that it has recovered human remains on the Port
Coquitlam farm property during its ongoing examination of this site. These
remains are the subject of forensic autopsy and laboratory testing and analysis.
The most recent recovery was made on Friday April 5th and following further
investigation by police, an information package was forwarded to Crown
Prosecutors who have today initiated a charge of first degree murder in relation
to the death of Angela Joesbury.
We understand your desire for specific details about the remains discovered at
the farm site. But we also ask you to respect the needs of immediate family
members. We ask to consider their need for dignity and their need for privacy.
We ask you to weigh sensation against sensitivity B and perhaps responsibility.
We also ask you to consider the requirements of police investigators to uphold
the privilege and jurisdiction of the court, and for the Task Force=s commitment
to maintaining the integrity of this investigation.
For these reasons, we will not divulge any specific details about the nature or
condition of the remains discovered.
(Cst. Cate Galliford) The search of the farm property continues in meticulous
detail and will continue for at least the next year. The Missing Women Joint
Task Force is confident that we have the resources and expertise required at
this point to do the job th
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
REMINDER ADVISORY: WEEKLY MEDIA BRIEFING TUESDAY APRIL
9
WEEKLY MEDIA BRIEFING TUESDAY APRIL 9
Vancouver, BC - The weekly media briefing for the Missing Women Task Force is
scheduled for tomorrow, Tuesday April 9th at 11:00 am after the
Vancouver Police morning deps.
Date: Tuesday April 9, 2002
Time: 11:00 am
Place: Vancouver Police Department (media room)
2120 Cambie St., Vancouver, BC
Please attend 10 minutes prior to 11:00 am for set up. No access after 11:00 am
as the door will be shut to minimize noise disruption.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
WEEKLY MEDIA BRIEFING TUESDAY APRIL 9
ADVISORY
MISSING WOMEN JOINT TASK FORCE
April 8,2002 File #2001-E1388
Vancouver, BC - The weekly media briefing for the Missing Women Task Force is
scheduled for tomorrow, Tuesday April 9th at 11:00 am after the Vancouver Police
morning deps.
Date: Tuesday April 9, 2002
Time: 11:00 am
Place: Vancouver Police Department (media room)
2120 Cambie St., Vancouver, BC
Please attend 10 minutes prior to 11:00 am for set up. No access after 11:00 am
as the door will be shut to minimize noise disruption.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MEDIA ADVISORY: Joint Task Force News Briefing
April 2, 2002
A news briefings by the Missing Women Joint Task Force will occur today.
DATE: Tuesday April 2, 2002
LOCATION: RCMP "E" Division H.Q.
Media Briefing/Conference Room
Main floor
TIME: 2:00 P.M.
Cst. Cate Galliford and Det. Scott Driemel spokespersons for the Joint Task
Force will be available. Their statements issued at the briefing will be posted
on the RCMP Media Website at
www.rcmp-bcmedia.ca .
Released for:
Cate Galliford, Cst.
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Scott Driemel, Det.
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Missing Women Task Force - News Briefing 2:00 pm
April 2, 2002
Statements issued by Joint Task Force Spokesperson at News Briefing:
(Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson) Thank you for coming.
From the beginning we have said that we will advise you as quickly as possible
regarding new developments in the Missing Women case.
Today the Missing Women Joint Task Force is announcing that three additional
charges of first degree murder were laid this morning against Robert William
Pickton of Port Coquitlam. These additional three charges of murder follow the
two charges of first degree murder laid against Mr. Pickton in February.
The current charges against Mr. Pickton are the result of the continuing police
search of a farm property located in Port Coquitlam. As you know, that intense
search is utilizing the best in scientific evidence-gathering and forensic
science. The search involves members of the Missing Women Joint Task Force, a
number of RCMP detachments, and other municipal police departments throughout
the Lower Mainland.
(Det. Scott Driemel, VPD Joint Task Force Spokesperson) The new charges against
Mr. Pickton involve the following missing women.
They are Heather Kathleen Bottomly, age 25, last seen on April 17th of 2001 and
reported missing the same day; Jacqueline Macdonnell, age 26, last seen on
January 16th of 1999 and reported missing on February 22nd, 1999; and Dianne
Rosemary Rock, age 34, last seen on November 23d of 2001 and reported missing
November 30, 2001. * Images posted below *
The families of the three women were notified prior to the news media being
notified.
From the beginning we have said that this investigation will succeed through the
partnership of family, friends, police, the community, and the news media. The
charges laid today are a result of this web of cooperation.
(Cst. Cate Galliford) From the beginning we have also said that this
investigation and search of the farm property will be a long and careful
process. The work of the Missing Women Joint Task Force is also not restricted
to any one person or place. There are literally hundreds of leads and hundreds
of suspects.
Although police, and understandably the families of the women, are please with
the laying of these additional charges...we want to caution the public that
there is still a long process ahead. The matter must go before the court, the
investigation must continue, and most importantly, the cooperation of all
stakeholders must go on.
Thank you
Image 1: Heather Kathleen Bottomly
Image 2: Jacqueline Macdonnell
Image 3: Dianne Rosemary Rock
Released by:
Cst. Cate Galliford
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Det. Scott Driemel
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
PHOTOS OF NEWLY ADDED MISSING WOMEN RE-POSTED
March 28, 2002
Please be advised the images of the newly added missing women posted to our
website today has caused some difficulties for some.
We appologize for these technical difficulties and hope this format will be of
assistance.
Image 1 : Anne Wolsey
Image 2 : Yvonne Boen
Image 3 : Tiffany Drew
Image 4 : Maria Laliberte
Image 5 : Ruby Hardy
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MISSING WOMEN JOINT TASK FORCE NEWS MEDIA UPDATE - 1:00
PM
MISSING WOMEN JOINT TASK FORCE
NEWS MEDIA UPDATE - THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2002
(Cst. Cate Galliford) Today's news media update brings you important new
information and will answer some media questions which have come up this week.
This is a very fluid investigation and the number of investigators working on
this file will change...when and how many investigators may be added to this
case has not been determined. When we make significant changes to the team size
or structure, we will let families know and then you.
The fact is...there is no definitive time frame attached to the search now being
conducted. The search will continue as long as it is deemed necessary to the
case. Right now we can say we expect to be on the farm search for at least one
year.
In its ongoing review, the Missing Women's Joint Task Force has found
descriptions of five additional women who match the profile of the existing 50
missing women. We are adding them to the list but need the public's assistance
in our attempts to locate the women.
(Det. Scott Driemel) The families of the additional five women were advised that
their loved ones may be added to the existing list of missing women. The
families of the other missing women were contacted by investigators as well with
this information.
Two of the five women are historical missing cases and have come to our
attention as a result of our ongoing file review. The other three women were
reported missing to police as a result of the recent media coverage surrounding
the missing women investigation.
The five women are:
Anne Elizabeth WOLSEY, age 29, born December 20, 1972. Ms. Wolsey was last seen
in Toronto in November of 1999. She was reported missing to the Vancouver police
on January 1st, 1997.Ms. Wolsey is described as being 5 feet one inch tall,
weighing 128 lbs., having long black hair, brown eyes, and a South African
descent. (Her photo is Image 1) * Note photo was removed April 2002 after family
reportedly she was alive and living in Quebec *
(Cst. Cate Galliford) The second woman is Yvonne Marie BOEN, age 34, born on
November 30, 1967. Ms. Boen was last seen on March 16, 2001 and reported missing
to Surrey RCMP on March 21st, 2001. She is described as being 5 feet, 10 inches
tall, having blonde hair and blue eyes, and being Caucasian. Ms. Boen has also
used the last name of 'ENGLAND.' (Her photo is Image 5)
The third woman is Tiffany Louise DREW, age 27, and born on January 13, 1975.
Ms. Drew was last seen on December 31, 1999. She was reported missing to
Vancouver police on February 8th, 2002. Ms. Drew is described as being 4 feet 11
inches tall, weighing 95 pounds, and having long, wavy blonde hair and blue
eyes. She is Caucasian. (Her photo is Image 2)
(Det. Scott Driemel) The fourth woman is Maria Laura LALIBERTE, age 52, born
November 7th, 1949. She was last seen on January 1st, 1997 and reported missing
to Vancouver police on March 8th, 2002. Ms. Laliberte is described as being 5
feet 6 inches tall, has brown hair, brown eyes and is Native Indian. She often
uses the alias Kim KELLER. (Her photo is Image 3)
The fifth woman is Ruby Anne HARDY, age 37, born on March 23, 1965. Ms. Hardy
was last seen in 1998 and was reported missing to Vancouver police yesterday,
March 27th, 2002. She is described as being 5 feet, 2 inches tall, weighing 131
pounds, having brown hair and eyes and being Native Indian. She often uses the
name 'Ruby GALLOWAY'. (Her photo is Image 4)
(Cst. Cate Galliford) All five of these women match the profile of the missing
women we are looking for. We are asking anyone with information about these
women to contact the Missing Women Tip Line which is 1-877-687-3377.
(Det. Scott Driemel) We can say that as a direct result of the recent media
coverage surrounding the missing women investigation, we have been contacted by
eight women who were reported missing in the past and who were a part of our
file review - which is different from the 50 women who are definitely missing.
These eight women contacted the tip line to assure investigators that they are
safe.
Thank you, and now we can take a few questions...
Released by:
Cate Galliford, Cst.
RCMP Spokesperson for the Missing Women Joint Task Force
Scott Driemel, Detective
Vancouver Police Department Spokesperson for the Missing Women Joint Task Force
Image: Anne Wolsey (removed once found alive & well April 2002)
Image 1: Tiffany Drew
Image 2: Maria Laliberte
Image 3: Ruby Hardy
Image 4: Yvonne Boen
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Missing Women Joint Task Force Weekly Media Briefing
scheduled for Thursday March 28th
March 27, 2002
The weekly news briefings by the Missing Women Joint Task Force will occur
tomorrow.
DATE: Thursday March 28, 2002
LOCATION: Vancouver Police Department
2120 Cambie St., Vancouver
Media Deps room
TIME: 1:00 P.M.
Cst. Cate Galliford and Det. Scott Driemel spokespersons for the Joint Task
Force will be available. Their statements issued at the briefing will be posted
on the RCMP Media Website at www.rcmp-bcmedia.ca
Released for:
Cate Galliford, Cst.
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Scott Driemel, Det.
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Missing Women Task Force - News Briefing 2:00 pm
March 20, 2002
(Det. Scott Driemel, Vancouver Police Joint Task Force Spokesperson) We have a
couple of general areas we wish to update you on today.
The investigation into the missing women identified by the Joint Task Force is
continuing to make headway. We said from the very beginning that the current
search of a farm property will be a slow, careful, scientific process.
That inch by inch search has so far resulted in two murder charges being laid.
We can say today that the intensity of the search continues. And we can say the
Joint Task Force is increasingly encouraged by the results of the many hours
spent at the farm by very experienced investigators.
Please remember that although a great deal of effort is being dedicated to the
farm site, the investigation of other leads continues. Besides the review of the
existing missing women file by the Joint Task Force, there has ALWAYS been an
ongoing and very active criminal investigation by police into new leads and
tips.
With each new suspect there is a window of opportunity for very intensive police
work. However if that work does not produce results then resources are shifted
to a higher priority suspect. This does not mean that we lose interest in a
suspect that is giving us very little to go on. They remain a suspect and the
high attention paid to them may return. But obviously it is impossible to apply
the same level of very high commitment to every suspect...we have to strive for
results.
This continuing investigation IS producing results. Those results will be shared
with you and the public in the very near future.
The Joint Task Force has resisted commenting about statements from a few
people...who say police should have done more...earlier.
We have resisted comment until today.
Let us share with you what police face.
(Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson) Police looked at – and
are still looking at – hundreds of potential leads and suspects. The very sad
truth is that horrible things are happening everyday to women who work the
streets. Such events demand police resources.
The Joint Task Force and police investigators must sift through continuing
rumours, innuendo, unsubstantiated claims, and people who make strong statements
and then later change their mind.
There are very gruesome stories out there. And the sad fact is, these are not
unique stories. Not by a long shot. Police have made and continue to make
decisions in this case. These decisions must be placed in the context of other
suspects and information that police have at the time.
Sometimes there are anywhere from 70 to over 200 suspects with a history and a
type of behaviour that deserves very, very close scrutiny.
This investigation into missing women is forcing light onto a part of our
society that traditionally resides in the very dark shadows. Most people in
society don't give a second thought about what's really happening on the streets
of our cities. And some people don't want to think about it. This investigation
is uncovering very new territory for many in the public...and the news media.
The way most people understand something new is by comparing it to past
experiences and existing knowledge. But the world this investigation is publicly
exposing...is nothing like most people have even dreamed about...let alone have
an accurate basis for comparison.
* Please note an advisory will be issued to alert you to the next briefing date
and time. *
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Missing Women Joint Task Force Media Briefing set for
Wednesday March 20th
March 19, 2002
The weekly news briefings by the Missing Women Joint Task Force will occur
tomorrow.
DATE: Wednesday March 20, 2002
LOCATION: RCMP "E" Division H.Q.
Media Briefing/Conference Room - Main floor
TIME: 2:00 P.M.
Cst. Cate Galliford and Det. Scott Driemel spokespersons for the Joint Task
Force will be available. Their statemetns issued at the briefing will be posted
on the RCMP Media Website at www.rcmp-bcmedia.ca
Released for:
Cate Galliford, Cst.
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Scott Driemel, Det.
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Missing Women Task Force - News Briefing 11:00
a.m.
Monday March 11, 2002
(Vancouver Police Department headquarters)
March 11, 2002
(Det. Scott Driemel, VPD Joint Task Force Spokesperson) We want to tell you what
we can about a meeting on Sunday between the Missing Women Joint Task Force and
about 70 relatives of the missing women.
Family members came from various parts of British Columbia as well as Washington
State.
On hand were 5 specialists from victim services, 2 grief counsellors, 2
specialists from the police victim services section and about 40 Joint Task
Force investigators.
The meeting started with an hour-long overview of the investigation. Family
members were provided with the latest information which can be provided without
jeopardizing the case. The Joint Task Force explained how the investigation is
organized, how it is managed, and who is responsible for major components of the
investigation.
Lead investigators with the Joint Task Force also answered a number of questions
from relatives of the missing women. Out of respect for the family members and
their privacy, we are not going to go into details of the questions or the
answers provided.
(Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson) We can say in general,
that people wanted to know about the fate of their loved ones. Was there
anything new...anything promising...how could they help. There were also some
questions about the history of this investigation.
The Joint Task Force investigators outlined just how complicated this case has
been. Family members were told about the continual challenges of sorting through
thousands of bits of information that at times has been misleading,
insufficient, contradictory and also very useful.
Year by year, month by month, and week by week investigators have continued to
collect, sort, analyse, set aside or keep, and ultimately focus hard on
information that has brought us to where we are today.
(Det. Scott Driemel) Over a period of about three hours family members had an
opportunity to view pictures of items collected by investigators. The items
mostly related to personal articles of clothing, jewellery, and other personal
affects. Family members were taken individually into a room to view the items
and to meet privately with investigators.
We will not go into detail about what information family members provided.
(Cst. Cate Galliford) We can say that the meeting with relatives was very
successful on several fronts. To the families of missing women this situation
involves deep emotion, uncertainty, and incredible public scrutiny. During such
an intense time communications, cooperation, and connecting with others is
vital.
Sunday was far more than a time of sharing information with families. It was a
time of sharing emotions as well, of understanding how there can be mutual
cooperation.
We will have more group conversations with families in the future. What was
re-enforced on Sunday was the fact that you can never leave an event with the
same level of knowledge you had when you went in.
Thank-you.
* Please note the next news briefing availability will be Wednesday March 20th -
location and time to be determined.
Released by:
Cst. Cate Galliford
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
and
Det. Scott Driemel
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Missing Women Task Force 1:30 pm News Briefing
March 10, 2002
JOINT MISSING WOMEN TASK FORCE: 1:30 p.m. Briefing
Det. Scott Driemel, VPD Joint Task Force Spokesperson: We have asked families of
the missing women to join police investigators today for two reasons. Joint Task
Force investigators will share what information they can with the families in
relation to the investigation and search.
Family members have also been asked to provide what information they can today
to assist in the investigation. The kind of information we have asked family to
think about includes items of jewellery, clothing, and personal items associated
with the missing women.
Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson: Approximately 80 family
members have gathered here today from around BC. This day will be spent sharing
information amongst families and police. From the very start...relatives of the
missing women have played an important role in helping police put together a
jigsaw puzzle containing thousands of pieces. A jigsaw puzzle whose big picture
changes as more pieces are assembled.
We cannot give you specific details of what police and family will talk about
today. We will not take any chances regarding an investigation that is complex,
that is now before the courts, and which is continuing.
Det. Scott Driemel: While we don't have a specific date.. I can tell you that
another family meeting will be set for the near future in order to ensure the
lines of communication remain open between police and families. Family liaisons
and victim assistance volunteers are also avaiable to the families to address
their needs.
The Joint Task Force WILL hold another news media update – update, not a news
conference – on Monday at around 11:00 AM at Vancouver Police Department
headquarters after Deps. If there's something we can say about how this day
rolls out...we will say it then.
For your information...the Joint Task Force will again start holding weekly news
media updates. The updates will be every Wednesday starting March 20th at either
Vancouver Police Department headquarters or RCMP headquarters in Vancouver.
There will be no individual interviews about this case granted to the news media
outside of those regular updates.
Thank you
Released by:
Cst. Cate Galliford
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
and
Det. Scott Driemel
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MEDIA ADVISORY
March 8, 2002
As part of our on-going efforts to keep the Families of the Missing Women
informed, members of the Missing Women Joint Task Force will be holding a Family
Meeting this weekend. In order to ensure media interests and needs are met Cst.
Cate Galliford and Det. Scott Driemel Spokespersons for the Joint Task Force
will be available for a short briefing about the meeting.
DATE: Sunday March 10, 2002
LOCATION: North East section of the Parking lot
12992 - 76th Avenue, Surrey B.C.
TIME: 1:30 P.M.
Parking in the area will be limited. The media should be aware that they will
not be able to park within the complex's parking lot and should therefore
utilize any available street parking.
The statements issued at the briefing will be posted on the RCMP Media Website
at www.rcmp-bcmedia.ca on Sunday.
Released for:
Cate Galliford, Cst.
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
and
Scott Driemel, Det.
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Robert William Pickton Makes First Court Appearance
February 25, 2002
Port Coquitlam, BC – This morning 52-year old Port Coquitlam resident Robert
William Pickton made a brief court appearance in Port Coquitlam Provincial
Court, in connection with the murders of two women listed as missing by the
British Columbia's Missing Women Joint Task Force.
Robert William Pickton, who was arrested by police on Friday, faces two counts
of first degree murder. Pickton is charged with one count of first degree murder
in connection with the death of Mona Wilson, and one count of first degree
murder in connection with the death of Sereena Abotsway. Pickton has been
remanded in custody until his next court appearance on April 2, 2002.
Mona Wilson was born on January 13, 1975 . She was last seen on November 23,
2001 and was reported missing on November 30, 2001. She was among 5 women added
to the list of missing women on January 15, 2002.
Sereena Abotsway was born on August 20, 1971. She was last seen August 1, 2001
and was reported missing on August 22, 2001. She was among the18 missing women
added to the list on December 4, 2001.
The families have requested that the images below of Mona and Sereena be used
when identifying their loved ones. (Photo image #1 - Mona Wilson, Photo Image #2
- Sereena Abotsway)
The Joint Task Force would like to remind everyone that the investigation into
missing women is NOT over. The detailed, inch by inch search of the farm
property will continue for many months to come. But that is just ONE part of
this continuing case. The missing women's review process is still ongoing. Tips
are being examined and investigated. The investigaiton by the Joint Task Force
is continuing and anyone with any information is asked to contact the Missing
Women Tip Line 1-877-687-3377.
Released by:
Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP
Joint Task Forced Spokesperson
and
Det. Scott Driemel, Vancouver Police
Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Re: Abotsway
February 25, 2002
Please note: The correct spelling for Sereena Abotsway is SEREENA ABOTSWAY. The
spelling listed in the poster issued December 4, 2001 was NOT correct.
The Abotsway family would appreciate the correct spelling be used. The family
would also like to request that they be allowed some privacy as they are still
in the grieving process. At this time they will not be granting any interviews.
Attached is a photo of Sereena that the family has made available to the media.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MAN CHARGED IN CONNECTION WITH MISSING WOMEN JOINT TASK
FORCE INVESTIGATION
February 22, 2002
Port Coquitlam, BC – A 52-year old Port Coquitlam man has been charged in the
murder of two women listed as missing by the British Columbia's Missing Women
Joint Task Force.
Robert William Pickton was arrested by police on Friday and charged with two
counts of first degree murder. Pickton is scheduled to appear in provincial
court in Port Coquitlam on Monday. The Missing Women Joint Task Force, formed in
2001, is investigating the case of 50 women who have been reported missing over
the past number of years.
Early in February, Joint Task Force members executed a search warrant on a
10-acre farm site in Port Coquitlam, a community near Vancouver. The intensive
search in still underway involving up to 80 investigators using specialized
forensic tools, dog teams, and other equipment brought onto the site. Police
have said since the beginning of the search at the farm site that the search and
investigation could take many months.
At a news conference at the search site on Friday night, Joint Task Force
spokespeople said that although charges have been laid with respect to the death
of two women, the investigation and search is far from over.
"Let us be very, very clear. The investigation into missing women is not over.
The detailed, inch by inch search of the farm property will continue for many
months to come," said Joint Task Force spokesperson Constable Catherine
Galliford. "We believe we now have answers regarding the disappearance of two
missing women. But this is a case involving 50 missing women. There are a lot of
questions still unanswered. We will not rest until those answers are found."
The Missing Women Joint Task Force is comprised of investigators from the Royal
Canadian Mounted Police and Vancouver Police Department. In addition,
investigators from the Delta Police Department, the Abbotsford Police
Department, the New Westminster Police Department, the provincial Organized
Crime Agency, and specialized federal investigative units are assisting in the
case.
For more information or background into the Joint Task Force investigation go to
the Website at www.rcmp-bcmedia.ca
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MISSING WOMEN INVESTIGATION - MEDIA BRIEFING 8:00 PM
Missing Women's Joint Task Force
(Royal Canadian Mounted Police / Vancouver Police Department)
News Conference Comments
February 22, 2002
Port Coquitlam, British Columbia
(Det. Scott Driemel, Vancouver Police Dept. Joint Task Force Spokesperson) Thank
you for coming.
We are going to make a statement...and then take a few questions.
The Missing Women's Joint Task Force is announcing that Robert William Pickton,
age 52, of Port Coquitlam, was charged today with two counts of first degree
murder. The murders are related to the case the Missing Women's Task Force is
investigating.
(Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson) Mr. Pickton was
arrested at a location in the Lower Mainland. The arrest was carried out quickly
and peacefully. Mr. Pickton is now in police custody and will appear in court on
Monday in Port Coquitlam. We will not disclose the location of where he is being
held.
Out of respect for family members...we are not at this time going to disclose
the names of the victims connected to the charges laid against Mr. Pickton. This
is a time for family grieving and for families and friend to reconcile what is
happening. We will release the names of the victims on Monday.
The Joint Task Force respects an individual's presumption of innocence and their
right to due process.
The charges against Mr. Pickton...are based on our continuing search and
investigation of a farm property in Port Coquitlam. We also want to acknowledge
the information that came forward from the public through the Joint Task Force
Tip Line.
(Det. Scott Driemel) Our methods and our evidence will now be assessed and
tested in a court of law. That means...after today...police are NOT in a
position to comment in any fashion on this case before the court.
A lot of people have worked very hard in making this arrest possible.
The Missing Women's Joint Task Force is comprised...officially...of members from
the Vancouver Police Department and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. In
addition...the investigation is being assisted by the Delta Police Department,
the Abbotsford Police Department, the New Westminister Police Department, the
provincial Organized Crime Agency, and many specialized federal investigative
sections.
This investigation is a very good example of what an integrated approach to
solving crime can accomplish.
But there are more than police investigators involved.
The arrest today could not have been possible without the assistance of the
public and especially the families. We also want to thank the various community
groups who have...and are...working very hard in their efforts to assist police
and women.
Over the past few days and weeks in particular...hundreds of people have come
forward with very useful new information. Many other people...who may not
normally feel compelled to help police...have come forward and provided us what
they could.
And you...the news media...are to be commended for helping communicate
information to the public that in turn motivated people to come out of the
shadows to help investigators.
(Cst. Cate Galliford) We believe we now have answers regarding the disappearance
of two missing women.
But this is a case involving 50 missing women.
There are a lot of questions still unanswered. We will not rest until those
answers are found.
Let us be very, very clear.
The investigation into missing women is NOT over. The detailed, inch by inch
search of the farm property will continue for many months to come. We said
before...and we will say it again...we have science, expertise, and time on our
side.
And we have said this before and we will say it again.
This is NOT a search for a needle in a haystack. It is precise, methodical,
highly integrated police investigation involving real people who are missing.
People with friends, family, and loved ones.
(Det. Scott Driemel) Today...we made an arrest and charges have been laid.
But that is just ONE part of this continuing case. The missing women's review
process is still ongoing. Tips are being examined and investigated. More tips
are coming in and they too will be investigated. The farm property...as we have
said...is just one part of our investigation. There are many investigative
avenues still being followed that do not include the farm.
We can now take a few questions...but please bear in mind we are compelled by
law, the constitution, and the justice system to very carefully restrict our
comments now that an arrest has been made and charges have been laid.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
URGENT: MEDIA ADVISORY
February 22, 2002
Vancouver, BC: The Missing Women Joint Task Force will be holding a News
Conference later today.
DATE: Friday February 22, 2002
LOCATION: Media Stagging Area in East Parking Lot of Port Coquitlam Home Depot -
off of Ottawa Street.
TIME: 8:00 P.M.
Media parking in the back stagging area by the news briefing tent will be
restricted. Only Satellite/Microvan Trucks and equipment vehicles will be
allowed to park in that back stagging area. All personal vehicles should park in
the front parking area of the Home Depot. And a reminder that Dominion Street is
restricted to local traffic only.
Cst. Cate Galliford and Det. Scott Driemel Spokespersons for the Joint Task
Force will be in attendance and will only be available for comment at that time
and location.
The statements issued will be posted on the RCMP Media Website at
www.rcmp-bcmedia.ca at the conclusion of the conference.
Released for:
Cate Galliford, Cst.
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
and
Scott Driemel, Det
VPD - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Missing Women Investigation - Media Briefing 2:00 pm
February 20, 2002
(Cst. Cate Galliford - RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson) This is the 15th day
of the Joint Task Force search of the Port Coquitlam farm property.
We have reached a point now where our investigators and forensic experts are
well settled in.
We have reached a point in this search where there is a significant amount of
new tips...where investigators have settled into a pattern of steady progress.
That's the way we expect events to proceed for quite some time.
Starting immediately, we are going to hold news media updates once a
week...starting next week.
We do want to be clear that if something major does break in this case...and we
can tell you...we will hold a news conference as quickly as possible.
As always...there will be no interviews granted about the search in between our
regular updates.
We now have more than 800 tips about the Missing Women case since a search
warrant was executed on the farm property belonging to the Pickton family. We
are continuing to get a steady stream of people who have visited the farm and
are willing to volunteer their DNA so that we can narrow down the DNA samples
collected in our search of the farm.
(Det. Scott Driemel - VPD Joint Task Force Spokesperson) I am seeing a great
level of cooperation from people who might not normally come forward to help
police. Somebody described what's going on as... "the street is fighting back."
I agree that there are many people today fighting back against the violence that
may have been perpetrated against the missing women we are searching for.
The level of cooperation and support coming from a variety of sources, be they
sex trade workers, friends and associates of the missing women, and many others
is very positive.
(Cst. Cate Galliford - RCMP Joint Task Force Spokesperson) What I am seeing...is
that people who feel they may have some information to help the Joint Task
Force... are putting aside their fear. There's an environment of trust being
created between police and others. The need by many to see justice done is
influencing the behavior of many we have spoken to.
Some of the people who are calling in with information...or volunteering their
DNA...or meeting with investigators...have lives that often put them in very
vulnerable situations. To show courage at this time...to come forward because
they believe it is the right thing to do...say a lot about the character and
integrity of these people...
Thank you
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MISSING WOMEN INVESTIGATION - MEDIA BRIEFING 2:OO PM
MONDAY February 18, 2002
2:00 PM (1400 hrs)
(Cst. Cate Galliford - RCMP, Joint Task Force Spokesperson) As you now
know...investigators have extended their search to the house located on the farm
property. This was done on Saturday as part of the search warrant granting
police access to other areas of the farm.
There may have been some misunderstanding that the house was NOT a part of the
search warrant executed by the Joint Task Force. If that is the case...we are
sorry for the misunderstanding. The house always has been part of the search
warrant. However, as we stated before, from the information we had during the
initial stages of the search we had no reason to search the house. As the
investigation has progressed that has changed. As you know we have received
numerous tips from the public which have been scrutinized by investigators. As a
result of some of these new tips the investigators have a new interest in the
house.
The house was the subject of a search on Saturday because forensic investigators
had specialized staff on hand and made a decision to start expanding the search.
For your benefit...it's probably useful to shed some light on just how this
search and investigation works.
Based on certain information...the Joint Task Force executed a search warrant on
the farm property. In designing a search strategy...investigators had specific
priorities. The first priorities included the mobile home and certain
outbuildings. A lesser priority was the house. Because of the nature of the
investigation...we will not go into detail on why one building had a greater
priority than another.
The search of the property is being done inch by inch, using very sensitive
equipment. Everything we find is recorded, tabulated, tagged, and in the case of
DNA samples, tested in an RCMP laboratory.
(Det. Scott Driemel - VPD, Joint Task Force Spokesperson) In parallel to the
detailed forensic search of the property...is an analysis of the hundreds of new
tips we are getting. And in addition to that are numerous side investigations,
interviews, and possibly other searches.
The Joint Task Force can tell you that as of this hour... more than 800 tips
from the public have come in since our search warrant was executed. We can tell
you that many of those tips have led police to conduct further investigations
and interviews.
The tips coming into the Tip Line at 1-877-687-3377...are proving very valuable.
The Joint Task Force thanks the public for becoming partners in this very
detailed investigation. And in particular...we thank those who are coming
forward with some very concrete information.
(Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP, Joint Task Force Spokesperson) In addition...10 more
people have come forward over the weekend with an offer to provide DNA samples
related to the mobile home on the property. This is in addition to the 30 others
who have already made such a DNA commitment. We are asking anyone who has ever
been to the trailer to offer samples of DNA so that we can narrow down the
identity of DNA we are finding.
As new information grows in strength and detail, older information is viewed in
a new light. There is nothing static about this search or investigation. It is
impossible to look at even one tiny bit of new information...without considering
the context of everything else. Everything is interwoven. And it can and does
change.
(Det. Scott Driemel - VPD, Joint Task Force Spokesperson) We know it can be
frustrating to the news media and others to not have all of the details of this
investigation as it unfolds. But there is no frustration greater than that being
experienced by family members who are wondering about the whereabouts and fate
of their loved ones.
The objective of the Joint Task Force is to address the emotional needs of the
families of missing women, to bring closure to their fear and pain. And our
objective is to see justice served. We are doing everything humanly and
scientifically possible to meet those objectives.
We will now take a few questions...
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email: media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MISSING WOMEN INVESTIGATION - MEDIA BRIEFING 2:00 PM
February 15, 2002 (Friday)
2:00 PM Update
Good afternoon.
(Cst. Cate Galliford - RCMP) Just for your information and planning...there will
be NO NEWS MEDIA UPDATE SESSIONS ON SATURDAY OR SUNDAY. Our next update to you
will be here...on MONDAY FEBRUARY 18th.
If something happens over the weekend that requires your attention...we will
schedule a news conference here with plenty of advance notice.
As always...there will be NO news media interviews or information conveyed
outside of the regular news media updates.
Now for what we can tell you today.
(Det. Scott Driemel - Vancouver Police) Throughout the day you will be seeing
the continual delivery of over 750 tonnes of gravel to the location for site
stabilization. The site stabilization is for a number of construction-type
trailers that will take the place of temporary police facilities on site.
In addition...we are establishing permanent communication and power facilities
on site for our investigators. We are doing a detailed...careful...precise
search and analysis of this property. We will not be rushed.
We are here to get results. And we are getting results.
Ladies and gentlemen...there have been some comments made by some people about
how our investigation is going to face challenges finding anything of substance.
Well...we have news for those people.
Our investigators...representing a tightly integrated effort by police from
Vancouver and the RCMP, and from numerous sections and detachments of the RCMP...take
this investigation very seriously.
There is tremendous mutual aid and support...not only amongst investigators..but
between police and the families of the missing women. And let us make this very
clear.
There is a tremendous search going on at this site.
But there is also tremendous compassion and attention for ALL women who face
violence and threats of violence in their lives. Let's get this straight. The
Missing Women's task force is here doing an extensive search.
But this site is not the be all and end all for our investigation.
(Cst. Cate Galliford - RCMP) On Thursday we told you that close to 30 people
have come forward within the past 24 hours with offers of providing DNA samples
so that we can narrow down the DNA samples found in the trailer on the site.
Today we can tell you that even more people are coming forward with offers of
their DNA. These are people who have been to the trailer. We thank those who
have come forward and appreciate others who will come forward.
Again, those who submit DNA related to this investigation will not have that DNA
used in any other investigation.
We can tell you that the DNA that has been found...and that which is still
forthcoming...is a top priority for RCMP laboratories across the country.
Today...RCMP labs from Vancouver to Halifax are working on this case.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MISSING WOMEN INVESTIGATION - MEDIA BRIEFING 2:00 PM
THURSDAY FEBRUARY 14, 2002
Joint Missing Women Task Force: 1400 hrs
Cst. Cate Galliford, RCMP: We would like to thank the news media for helping us
reach out to people who have come to the mobile home located on the search site.
Today, we can report that since our plea yesterday, more than 30 people have
contacted the Joint Task Force with an offer to supply DNA samples. By giving us
DNA samples, investigators with the Joint Task Force will be able to further
narrow down the identity of the DNA samples found inside the trailer.
But this is a continuing task and we need more help from those who have been to
the trailer on the search site. We respect the need for trust. We understand the
fear. And we understand the need for protection.
The Joint Task Force has 40 members trained in the collection, handling and
proper storage of DNA. We also have a consent form that guarantees any DNA
samples collected by the Joint Task Force will ONLY be used for the purposes of
the Joint Task Force on Missing Women.
Det. Scott Driemel, Vancouver Police: I want to make that point again. Any DNA
provided to the Joint Task Force will only be used for the purposes of this
investigation and search. The Joint Task Force guarantees this protection in
writing.
There have been questions about why a refrigeration truck was brought on site by
police and what is being loaded into that truck. We are not going to answer any
questions about that action.
We can report that in cooperation with the owners of the property, some heavy
equipment and machinery has been moved off site. We're not going into details
about what specifically that equipment is.
Ladies and gentlemen...this is NOT a search for a needle in a haystack. This is
a thorough, detailed, and well integrated police investigation. We have science
and expertise on our side. We are dealing with human emotions and very human
needs. And we are very determined to do everything that is necessary to bring
closure to this case.
Additional remarks made during Q & A:
• Cars that are on the property are part of the search warrant.
• There are 15 outbuildings on the site and all are part of the search, however
the residence is not part of the search warrant.
• There are a minimum of 8 and as many of 40 - 45 investigators on the site at
any given time.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MISSING WOMEN JOINT TASK FORCE - MEDIA BRIEFING 2:00 PM
WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13, 2002
1400 hrs
(Det. Scott Driemel - Vancouver Police) There are a number of key issues we want
to address with you today.
Our first item relates to the Tip Line established by the Joint Task Force. The
Tip Line is turning out to be a great source of new information related to this
case. Significant information has come forward and we review every tip received.
As of today we have received close to 600 tips.
What is NOT useful is having the news media call the Tip Line and question the
people working there. Calls from the news media to the Tip Line simply ties up
an important source of information to police. So...please...refrain from calling
the Tip Line in an effort to find a story angle.
Now information related to the current search.
As you know there is a mobile home trailer situated on the Pickton Farm
property. This trailer is a focus of intense forensic investigation.
Investigators now have in their possession, specific items of interest taken
from the trailer and certain DNA samples. We cannot be specific about what that
information is. But we can say that the search for evidence is continuing and
expanding.
As of today...you will start seeing increased search activity on the
property...specifically at the trailer. Again...we are not going into details.
It is a long, slow, steady and careful process. But rest assured...investigators
will examine every nook and cranny, every square foot of ground, and every inch
of material. We will not rush this examination in any way.
(Cst. Cate Galliford - RCMP)
Currently investigators are securing DNA samples from a number of individuals.
The idea of this process is to help us bring a narrower focus to the information
we have at hand so far.
We encourage women and others to appreciate the importance of this process. To
feel safe in coming forward. And to know that the Joint Task Force understands
their feelings, their fears, and their needs.
The Joint Task Force would like to make this public request. We would like to
ask anyone who has been to the trailer now being searched on the Pickton farm
property to contact the Tip Line. In addition, we would like to ask anyone who
knows anyone who has been to the trailer to also call the Tip Line. The Tip Line
number is 1-877-687-3377.
This information can play a crucial role in the Joint Task Force investigation.
The internet and the RCMP web site is also helping us reach journalists and the
public. By going to www.rcmp-bcmedia.ca you will find access to all public
information released to date.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Missing Women Task Force - News Briefing Feb 12:
2:00pm
February 12, 2002
2:00pm
CST. CATE GALLIFORD - RCMP
There is nothing significant to report at this hour regarding the actual search
being conducted on site. As you know...we cannot and will not go into any
details regarding anything going on at the site.
We also will not talk about the details in any news reports that may be
associated with information being linked to this case.
From the very beginning we have stressed that this search is complex, will take
time, and by necessity requires investigators to painstakingly examine the scene
inch by inch.
This morning, the Joint Task Force's family contact met with a number of family
members near the site.
It is very understandable that family members have a need to be near the search
site, to be near the shrine that has been built to honor the missing women, to
watch police working, to have privacy, and to have a place where they can meet
and talk and share their feelings.
DET. SCOTT DRIEMEL - VANCOUVER POLICE
What the Joint Task Force is doing is having a large tent set up near the site
to accommodate the needs of the family. We are very pleased to say that the
tent, chairs, and other needs in the tent are being donated by community
interests. It is an example of the great community support being shown to family
members and police by community members and local businesses.
We are not going to tell you how to do your job as reporters. But we ask you as
people who understand the emotional needs of others...to respect the privacy of
family members using their tent site.
With us today is Freda Ens. Freda is executive director with the Vancouver
Police & Native Liaison Society and was part of the family meeting with us this
morning.
The Joint Task Force would like to give Freda an opportunity to speak to the
public and to share not only her thoughts but the feelings of other family
members.
FREDA ENS - EXEC. DIRECTOR VANCOUVER POLICE NATIVE LIAISON ....
Thank you for giving me some time.
I have been in contact with many families associated with this search. Those
families want to express their appreciation to investigators.
Family members also want to say that they know why information cannot be shared
in detail because that could jeopardize the case.
The families also would like to thank the news media who helped push the
investigation to where it is today.
I would ask, on behalf of the families, for the news media to respect the
privacy of family members as they meet in the tent...
This is an important part of the healing process. Please respect our need for
privacy to share these moments
The tent will be a very special place for us. We have set up a volunteer family
support group and at times that group will meet in the tent.
We are also working with the Joint Task Force in arranging for transportation to
our tent for family members who cannot get here.
In addition...we want to send a message to family members who may feel
uncomfortable in coming here with all the media attention. If those people
contact us we can arrange for an escorted visit that respects their privacy.
We also understand the news media's needs to talk to family members...and we
will take steps to try and accommodate that.
I would like to share a message with family members who feel they have not
received information or feel they are off the contact list.
If family members would like to be on a list, if family members would like help
in coming to the site, please contact 604-687-8411 in Vancouver. We will accept
collect calls.
Released by:
Cst. Cate Galliford
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokersperson
Det. Scott Driemel
Vancouver Police - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MEDIA BRIEFING 11:00 AM
MONDAY FEBRUARY 11, 2002
11:00 AM
Thank you for coming.
Just a reminder...there will be another briefing at 3:00 p.m. this afternoon
...as of tomorrow, Tuesday February 12th...we will hold news media updates once
a day...at 2:00 PM. We are also assessing the need at this time to hold weekend
updates.
This is a slow, careful, meticulous search involving a very challenging area of
land and buildings. The fact is...there is not a lot of new information to
convey every day to the public, the families and the news media. Certainly...if
something of magnitude occurs, and we can share that information, we will call a
news conference.
Now for what we can share today.
As of Sunday night, the Missing Women Tip Line has received over 400 tips from
the public. The tips have come in over the past few days. The Joint Task Force
would like to thank the public for their calls, some of which are very
significant. We'd also like to thank the news media for continuing to make the
Tip Line public.
The Joint Task Force has assigned three dedicated staff to review the tips,
index them according to subject matter and other details, and pass the
information onto investigators. They are asking the public to be patient. Every
call is taken seriously... but it would be fair to not expect a call back right
away. Calling twice with the same information can tie up the tip lines or other
callers.
There was a meeting last night between the Joint Task Force and a number of
family members. The idea is to get as much information as possible to the family
as quickly as possible without jeopardizing the investigation. The job of
communicating with family members is somewhat complicated because those we want
to reach are located throughout British Columbia, Canada and the United States.
In addition, some family members have told us that they would rather not hear
every specific detail about what's going on. Others feel some knowledge about
our search may help their grieving process.
The Joint Task Force wants to make this point. We are dealing with people here..
whether they are missing people or their family and friends. People have
emotions, hopes, and feelings. The Joint Task Force is sensitive to this and
will respect the families' need for both communication and privacy.
Finally, you noticed yesterday that some small wading pools were brought in. We
can tell you that the pools will be used to hold displaced ground water while
investigators analyze the water.
Released by:
Det. Scott Driemel
Vancouver Police - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Cst. Cate Galliford
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
3:00 PM MEDIA BRIEFING
MONDAY FEBRUARY 11, 2002: 3:00 PM
Cst. Cate Galliford :
There was a question about budgets.
What we can tell you is that the Joint Task Force has an ongoing operational
budget. That budget is used to pay ongoing, daily costs associated with the
investigation. What police also have is a contingency fund to deal with sudden,
unexpected events that are large in scope.
This search clearly qualifies as a large event. Indeed we believe that this
search and associated investigations represent one of the largest coordinated
police efforts in BC.
We are not going to give you specific budget numbers now related to either the
ongoing operational costs or the contingency fund. What the Joint Task Force can
say is that we are pleased with the level of confidence and support provided by
not only senior police management, but also by the provincial Solicitor General.
Det. Scott Driemel:
There was a question about how many investigators are working on the case. As of
this hour, there are 85 police and associated personnel, including some who come
and go on a rotating basis. The expertise of the personnel varies widely. There
are forensic experts, major crime investigators, family consultation experts,
and a variety of other subject experts adding their knowledge to this case.
Additional facilities might be brought in during the next 24 - 48 hrs to help
accommidate the increased personnel.
Over the coming days and possibly weeks the Joint Task Force would like to bring
forward some subject matter experts to help you understand how this complicated
investigation is rolling out.
Investigations of this magnitude are a complex and often shadowy web of
interconnected issues and bits of information. As we discover yet another link
in the web it can change the nature of what we already know. Hopefully, we will
soon see the full picture
Once again a reminder...as of tomorrow, Tuesday February 12th...we will hold
news media updates once a day...at 2:00 PM.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Missing Women Task Force: Feb.10 11:00 am News
Briefing
February 10, 2002
The following information was released during the 11:00 a.m. news briefing.
This search is NOT confined to one area. The way it works is that we start with
a very detailed examination of the outbuildings. Essentially moving inch by
inch, looking at everything from a forensic perspective. That is why you can see
investigators at work in white jump suits moving very slowly and carefully
through the scene. Now at the same time we do a general search of the site. That
is why you see the search dogs at work.
The tents that you see erected on site are there for one reason. That reason is
to offer shelter for some very sensitive equipment that investigators must use
in their search.
We are bringing in 500 sand bags to help deal with the water drainage issue. The
local fire department is playing a big role in helping us think this issue
through.
The SPCA continues to work with us in dealing with the various animals on site.
Right now the objective is to look after the well being of those animals. By the
way, the animals have no role to play in terms of evidence.
We'd like to bring you up to speed on our relationships with the families.
Communications with family members is a top priority to us. We have had
discussions with family members over the past 24 hours and progress is being
made. We may have more for you on this process on Monday.
Released by:
Det. Scott Driemel
Vancouver Police - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Cst. Cate Galliford
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Missing Women Task Force: February 10 3:00 p.m.
News Briefing
February 10, 2002
Members from the Joint Task Force will be meeting with family representatives
this afternoon to bring them up to date on what's happening.
Out of respect for the family's privacy, we are not going to release the time or
location of this meeting. What is important here is that police continue to keep
family members in the communications loop as best we can.
We also want to convey our thanks to family members who have publicly said that
what's important is that this investigation be done carefully, that evidence not
be jeopardized, and that police have a chance to do their job.
There's no doubt that investigators have been working very hard searching this
property. Obviously there will come a time when additional investigators will be
brought in from other municipalities throughout the Lower Mainland to help us
out. Who will be coming from where and for how long is now being decided.
A short time ago horse trailers were brought onto the site. The trailers were
brought onto the property after a request by members of the family. While the
trailers are on the property...they are not being allowed onto the actual search
site. This removal of animals is being done with SPCA assistance.
We are also dealing with the heavy rains. Steps are being taken to contain or
drain water sources.
And finally tips do continue to come in on this case, thanks to the news media
reports of the phone number. We can also add that in the past 48 hours, access
to the RCMP newsmedia information site has jumped in traffic by 25%. Access to
that information is coming from around the world.
** Please Note: Shawn Eccles, Manager BC SPCA Vancouver Regional Branch told the
media that the SPCA attended the property and have removed 2 Llamas,
approximately 40 sheep, 10 goats, and 6 pigs. 2 pigs were euthanized earlier
this week at a Vet's assistance and 2 sheep are in the SPCA's care. The animals
have not been seized they have been removed so that they can be cared for with
the owner's permission.
Released by:
Cst. Cate Galliford
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
and
Det. Scott Driemel
Vancouver Police - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Missing Women Task Force - 11:00 a.m. Briefing
for February 9
February 9, 2002
There is nothing new to report from overnight investigations and the search of
the property. We are moving inch by inch, centimetre by centimetre, ensuring
that nothing gets overlooked.
We have concerns about the well being of livestock on the site. This is a
working farm. There are about 30 sheep, about a dozen pigs, about a dozen goats,
there are a couple of llamas, and a couple of cows.
Police are now trying to work out an animal safety agreement with the family.
What we'd like to do is reach an agreement wherein the SPCA can remove the
animals and look after them at another site. We think this would be better for
the animals and certainly make our search easier.
We have now secured the site with about 4,000 lineal feet of fencing. This is a
standard precaution to protect the site and any possible evidence from outside
contamination. The fencing is being watched 24 hours a day, seven days a week by
police who are patrolling the outside area on foot.
This is a very dynamic search. Police are coming and going with various levels
of expertise brought in as needed. At any one time we can have been 12 and 40 or
more direct investigators on the site. The skills range from forensic
specialists to fine-detail search specialists.
We are aware that there has been some concern from some family members that they
feel out of the information loop. We apologize for them feeling that way. The
Joint Task Force contacted family members to let them know we were coming onto
this site. We are now taking steps to make sure we can keep them regularly
updated with whatever information we can share without jeopardizing the
investigation.
There continues to be speculation about events related to this case from two
years ago. This is what must be understood. Information was received in the past
about this case and that information has been acted on.
Focussing intently on any one element of a case, or at any one moment in time in
an investigation, is like jumping to conclusions about a giant jig-saw puzzle by
shining one bright light on one small piece of that puzzle.
A police investigation involves looking at how ALL pieces fit together. A police
investigation involves getting new information. A police investigation even
involves challenging past assumptions based on what's new. That is how cases
eventually get solved.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
April news release -RCMP and Vancouver Police joint
forces to review files related to street trade workers
April 10, 2001
VANCOUVER, BC
The RCMP Major Crime Section has joined forces with Vancouver Police Department
to review all Vancouver files related to the homicides and disappearances of
street trade workers.
This joint forces review project is much broader in scope in such that it is not
limited to the 31 missing Vancouver women already identified. The review will
take a long and methodical look at all files of reported missing and murdered
Vancouver street trade workers using computer systems not previously avaliable.
The costs of the project will be shared jointly between RCMP and Vancouver City
as there are 2 RCMP officers and 2 Vancouver Police Department officers
reviewing the files. This joint forces project like many others demonstrates the
continued excellent working relationship between the Vancouver Police Department
and the RCMP.
The Vancouver Police Department should be commended on their diligent work as
they successfully eliminated 4 women of the 31 listed as missing from the
Missing Women poster through outstanding police work. Such methodical police
work takes time as will this review.
Should anyone from the public have any information regarding a homicide or
disappearance of a Vancouver street trade worker, please call Crime Stoppers at
669-TIPS (8477) or outside the Lower Mainland at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Released by:
Danielle Efford, Cst. "E"Division Media Relations
Detective Scott Driemel Vancouver Police Department
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Missing Women Task Force: NEWS BRIEFING 3:00
February 9, 2002
The following information was released at the 3:00 p.m. news briefing.
Police are now consulting with the local fire department regarding how pools of
ground water may be dealt with. That is why you may have noticed vehicles from
the fire department on site.
The SPCA arrived on the scene and is considering the removal of a number of
animals from the site. The idea here is to look after the well being of the
animals. Please understand that police have no interest in these animals from an
investigative point of view.
We'd like to thank the news media for publishing the number of the tips line
related to this case. We can tell you that we have received over 250 tips from
the public in just the last few days. The investigators are analysising and
assess them.
We want to particulary stress that some of the tips that have come in are very
valuable. Obviously we can't go into details. But...we want to again thank the
media and especially the public for contacting us. We very much encourage the
tips to continue coming in.
Dog teams continue to arrive on scene to assist with the search of the property.
They are trained in various areas of investigation and are part of the overall
search.
Earlier we were asked by the media how long this search may take place. We have
said it is moving inch by inch. We must be extremely careful and scientific in
how we conduct the search. In some ways, for you it will be like watching a
snail carefully crossing a road. Eventually we will get where we're going. But
don't expect rushed results. Once again that Tip Line number is 1-877-687-3377
Where we are today is looking at how one part of a very large jigsaw puzzle fits
into the overall puzzle if it fits at all. There are many parts to this puzzle.
Remember that we are also looking at other pieces of this large puzzle. And we
are looking at how that information all connects.
Next briefing on February 10th @ 11:00 a.m.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
MEDIA ADVISORY!!!
February 8, 2002
Coquitlam, BC - A media briefing is being called. Based on the ongoing
investigation at the Port Coquitlam Farm, a media briefing will be held in the
parking lot of Home Depot located in Port Coquitlam. This is not a news
conference but a media availability.
Scheduled time: 3:30 pm
Location: Home Depot Parking Lot (East side) on Ottawa St, Port Coquitlam
*Home Depot is just behind the Cost Co Store
*Ottawa St is the first light West of the Pitt River bridge off of Lougheed Hwy.
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Joint Task Force - News Briefing 3:30 pm
February 8, 2002
Time released: 3:30pm
The following information was provided at the briefing.
- The investigation is proceeding in a careful and deliberate way.
- We will not discuss any details pertaining to the operation or the
investigation. We can say that all information received on this case, including
received in past years, has been well shared and has been acted on. We can't go
any further than that.
- We can tell you that a toll free tip line is still in place for anyone who
wants to pass on information to investigators. That number is 1-877-687-3377.
- There have been reports in the news media about certain specific articles
found at the site. We will not confirm the accuracy of that reporting. What we
will say is that everything that has been and will be found is being closely
examined for evidentiary value.
- At this time, no charges have been laid with respect to the missing women
case. One of the co-owners of the farm property, Robert William Pickton, is
scheduled to appear in court on February 28th on weapons charges. Those charges
are the result of an initial search warrant executed on his residence.
- You will also notice additional police resources being brought in to patrol
the perimeter of the fence erected by police. Those resources are required
because of the scope of the property and the importance of ensuring the area
remains protected.
- In addition, the roadway where many of you are now currently parked will
cleared of vehicles for safety reasons. We suggest you consider parking in this
area.
Our next briefing will be held tomorrow, Saturday at 11 AM at this site in the
East end of the Port Coquitlam Home Depot.
Released by:
Scott Driemel, Det
Vancouver Police Department - Joint Force Spokesperson
and
Cate Galliford, Cst.
RCMP - Joint Task Force Spokesperson
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
FIVE WOMEN ADDED TO LIST OF MISSING FROM DOWNTOWN
EASTSIDE
January 15, 2002
Vancouver, BC: The Vancouver Missing Women Review Team has added five women to
the list of those missing from Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. These women have
been added to the official list of missing women as a result of the continuing
review of all missing persons cases and homicides of Vancouver street trade
workers.
These additions bring the total of missing women to 50.
The five missing women are:
Rebecca Louisa GUNO
Date of Birth - May 25th, 1960
Reported Missing - June 25th, 1983 to Vancouver Police Dept.
Last Seen - June 22, 1983
Heather Kathleen BOTTOMLEY
Date of Birth - Aug. 17th, 1976
Reported Missing - April 17th, 2001 to Vancouver Police Dept.
Last Seen - April 17th, 2001
Mona Lee WILSON
Date of Birth - Jan. 13th, 1975
Reported Missing - Nov. 30th, 2001 to Vancouver Police Dept.
Last Seen - Nov. 23rd, 2001
Dianne Rosemary ROCK
Date of Birth - Sept. 2nd, 1967
Reported Missing - Dec. 13th, 2001 to Vancouver Police Dept.
Last Seen - Oct. 19th, 2001
Elaine Phyllis DUMBA
Date of Birth - March 12th, 1955
Reported Missing - April 9th, 1998 to
Coquitlam RCMP
Last Seen - 1989
The review team is working closely with various agencies in the Downtown
Eastside to ensure the women working in that area remain vigilant, not only for
themselves but for each other, and we are encouraging them to contact the police
with information that may help solve these disappearances.
Should anyone from the public have information regarding the homicide or
disappearance of a Vancouver street trade worker, please phone Crime Stoppers at
604-662-TIPS (8477) or the Missing Woman Tip line at 1-877-687-3377.
* Photos : Image 1 Rebecca GUNO
Image 2 Dianne ROCK
Image 3 Mona WILSON
Released by:
Cate Galliford, Cst. RCMP/Vancouver Missing Women Review Team
Phone: (604)660-4203
Pager: (604)632-9181
and
Scott Driemel, Detective
Vancouver Police Media Relations
Phone: (604)717-2681
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
INVESTIGATION EXPANDS TO LOCATE MISSING WOMEN
December 4, 2001
Vancouver, BC: The Vancouver Police Department and the RCMP joined forces last
April to review the cases of women reported missing from the Vancouver downtown
eastside.
The investigators have reviewed over 5000 British Columbian files and continue
to review thousands more including those of missing women, murdered and
attempted sex trade workers, murdered and attempted hitchhikers, serious sexual
assaults and serious assaults committed against sex trade workers.
As a result, police are asking the public's assistance to locate 18 newly
identified women. If efforts fail to locate these women, their names will be
added to the existing list of missing women.
The review team is working to obtain additional resources to coordinate the
current investigative leads and the work being done by the historical review
team. These investigators would proactively work with Vancouver Police officers
and the various support agencies that exist in the downtown eastside. The joint
force commitment is to make the streets safe not only for the women who frequent
the downtown eastside but for everyone who uses these city streets.
A tip line has been established for anyone with information regarding the
whereabouts of any one of these women : MISSING WOMEN TIP LINE 1-877-687-3377.
* Poster is posted as image 1 below
BACKGROUNDER:
- The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) and the RCMP joined forces in April 2001
to review all the reports of women missing from the Vancouver downtown eastside
to look for any information or common link that may assist in discovering who
may be responsible for their
disappearances.
- In addition to reviewing these files, the review team are also looking at all
BC homicide and attempted homicide cases of sex trade workers all BC homicides
and attempts of hitchhikers all BC serious sexual assaults committed against sex
trade workers all BC serious assaults committed against sex trade workers
- The historical review team has reviewed over 5000 files thus far with many
thousands more to filter through.
- The review team currently consists of 16 investigators (7 VPD and 9 RCMP from
all over the LMD) and 5 support staff (2 VPD & 3 RCMP).
- The review has identified to date 600 to 1000 potential suspects.
- There have been 107 murder cases dating back to the early 70's where the
victim was a sex trade worker. 55 have been solved in which all killers were
different.
Released by:
Danielle Efford, Cst.
RCMP Communications
Phone: (604) 264-2932
and
Scott Driemel, Detective Cst.
Vancouver Police Media Relations
Phone: (604) 717-2681
Webmaster "E", Division
Communications Section
5255 Heather St.
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K6
Phone: N/A
Fax: (604)264-3200
Email:
media.webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca