Law Enforcement Discusses Scaling Back Dunn Investigation

Since Hailey's reported disappearance on Monday, December 27, more than a dozen local, state, and federal agencies have been involved in solving the teen's disappearance. Over the next few days and weeks, the efforts will transition back to a primarily local investigation.

"There will be times people will have to be devoted to other things," said Mitchell County Sheriff Patrick Toombs. "Just like anything else, crime does not stop. So, we have to move people around to other areas. But, there's always going to be someone who is working on this case."

Both Kampfer and Toombs say their efforts will continue to intensify even after other agencies pack up and leave town.

Hailey was last seen by her mother's boyfriend, Shawn Adkins, on Monday, December 27 at their home on Chestnut Street in Colorado City. Adkins is the only person to be named as a suspect in her disappearance.

Colorado City's City Manager Pete Kampfer has told KTAB News law enforcement needs to find strong physical evidence or a body to make an arrest in the case. Kampfer continues to say there are still several persons of interest.

On Thursday, a portion of the investigation focused on landfill searches in both Colorado City and Snyder. According to the Mitchell County Sheriff, no new discoveries were made. Sheriff Toombs also said he wasn't aware of any evidence being found in a previous landfill search in Abilene.

"As far as I know, there's not anything that was found over there that pertains to the investigation," said Toombs.

As law enforcement continues to work the criminal side of the case, officers continue to receive help from volunteer searchers. Two national search agencies, KlaasKids and the Laura Recovery Center, are currently in town providing training to volunteers. The training will ensure all areas are properly searched and accounted for.

Representatives with both groups plan to stay through the weekend or until everyone involved is properly trained, according to KTAB's Tiffany Tatro.

Even though it's now been 26 days since Hailey disappeared, you'll still find hope all around Colorado City. On Friday night, the community gathered with Hailey's parents at First Baptist Church for a prayer vigil.

"We all need to gather strength and look for that higher power, who can deliver for us," said Bobbie Banks, a resident of Colorado City, as she and her husband entered the service.

"I know that prayer can get us through this," added Banks.

Officials now say the information that leads to Hailey's safe return is $15,000.