Investigators: Key Players Changing Stories in Dunn Case
By: Austin Kellerman
Updated: January 9, 2011
"The story of some of the key players continues to change even as recently as last night," said Senior Texas DPS Trooper Sparky Dean. "It's very frustrating for law enforcement."
During a news conference Sunday afternoon, Dean elaborated and pointed the finger at those closest to Hailey.
"The family has not been forthcoming in their discernment of the truth," added Dean.
Dean didn't elaborate much beyond that -- only adding that investigators still haven't found evidence of foul play. He says they continue to question people just in case this transitions into a criminal investigation. Dean added that law enforcement continues to be hopeful Hailey is hiding somewhere.
"I'm confident we'll find Hailey," said Dean. "I don't think Hailey wants to be found. I believe she's hiding. She's probably scared at this point. We're going to find her."
Dean noted that while volunteer searches have been looking through fields and wooded areas, law enforcement's primary mission has been to find Hailey "standing up."
Dean and City Manager Pete Kampfer did reveal that a new witness has come forward that claims to have spotted Hailey walking with two other girls near the time of her reported disappearance.
Dean said that over the weekend, law enforcement did a fairly thorough search of the Dunn area. He went on to say it's likely officers could return at some point to follow up on new leads. However, he said efforts for the time being will be focused on other areas.
"We're knocking on doors; we're find where Hailey is not," said Dean. "We can utilize our resources elsewhere. It's kind of negative, but also positive also."
Dean said he would not be releasing any information about what sort of evidence has been found in the search. He added anything found in the Dunn area would be taken in by law enforcement and held for prosecutors in case it turned out to be evidence in the case.
Dean praised the efforts of local law enforcement and said any speculation that the Colorado City Police Department didn't do enough -- early enough -- is incorrect.
Dean went on to add that many experts have been called to help in various fields. He said as the investigation progresses it's likely more experts could be called in to help.
During Sunday's news conference, authorities also revealed school administrators have a video of Hailey walking that might be released to the media on Monday.
Officials now say the information that leads to Hailey's safe return is $15,000. They previously estimated much higher at $25,000.
