Details Of The Initial Investigation Into The Disappearance Of Natalee Holloway

This is the entire post from the beginning. I thank the people who have contributed in one manner or another to this report who shall remain unnamed at their request.

The trip from Mountain Brook, Alabama to Aruba was not an official "school" trip, but an organized celebration for a group of mostly carefree and deservedly celebratory seniors from Mountain Brook High School, as well as some attendees from other surrounding schools. The last a fact that has gone mostly unreported.

While adults were involved in the organization of the trip, waivers were signed by students, and or parents, as appropriate. While adult chaperones traveled along for general oversight, it was reasonably clear and well established that, excepting for a clear and known emergency, the bold, bright faces of MBHS were, in some ways, almost striking out on their own for their very first time in an island paradise considered at least as safe as the streets of many American towns.  They were celebrating years of hard work and sacrifice paid to earn their way into, in many cases, some of the better colleges of America.

Mountain Brook is home to a class of people some would describe as too well-off and perhaps a bit over-privileged; while still others will tell you it is the heart of an America that works hard for its money, establishes and runs banks and various businesses and fuels the great engine of commerce which funds the American dream.

Sun-tanned and not-rested, much as any bright new life might find itself glowing after a mostly uneventful but fully enjoyable trip, seniors were expected to be in the lobby of the Holiday Inn by 10:30 on Monday morning to assemble for the journey home. One young blond face of a reportedly mostly shy girl named Natalee Holloway never did join the gathering there.

Assuming she had simply stayed the night in another room with other friends, Natalee's roommates gathered up her belongings - luggage, purse, cell phone, and passport, bringing them down to the now crowding lobby in preparation for their flight home.  As the bus began to load, adults began to ask questions of the seniors as to why the missing Natalee might not be there. Her friends stated that she had left Carlos and Charlies with a local boy.
 
It was decided that the students and 6 of the 7 chaperones for the trip would go on to the airport so as to not miss their flight back home. Many of the chaperonees were veterans of the trip as it had become almost a ritual having been undertaken without incident for the past five, or so years. The remaining chaperonee, who was not my source for this story, kept her belongings, including cell phone, in case she turned up at the hotel.

Had she made a youthful misjudgment, maybe over-slept somewhere? Or, was she perhaps simply too embarrassed for having made a choice many might characterize as unusual for the girl? It's impossible to under-speculate as to what thoughts likely passed through the mind of a presumably worried chaperonee sitting alone in a hotel lobby waiting for the return of an increasingly missed young girl.

Local police were first notified of the situation at approximately 11:30 AM, one hour after the seniors scheduled departure from the hotel lobby.  A member of the beach patrol was dispatched to take a report and collect a copy of her passport for identification purposes.

Hotel staff interacted with the chaperonee, answering questions and putting forth possible explanations prior to the travel agent for the trip being contacted at approximately 2PM. That is believed to be close to the time of the departing flight, though the exact time of the flight is unconfirmed. The travel agent then contacted Natalee's family.

The parents and several high profile Birmingham business men left Birmingham around 4:30 CST on a private jet owned by one of the men, G. Ruffner Page, Jr., President of McWane Inc. - one of Alabama's s largest private companies.  The private plane is owned by the company.  Natalee's parents placed several calls regarding the troubling developments prior to their departure for Aruba. At approximately 5:00 CST a member of the US DEA contacted the remaining chaperonee.  The DEA representative was on Aruba on another matter and the two individuals agreed to meet that evening back at the Holiday Inn.

By now the seniors, save one notable exception were back in Atlanta and several received incoming calls from Aruba from Natalee's cell phone. Unfortunately, what some thought was the re-appearance of their missing friend turned out to be more questions about her disappearance from the chaperonee back in Aruba. Attempting to provide as much helpful information as possible the chaperonee was informed that the boy with whom Natalee left Carlos and Charlies was somewhat known to them for having had played poker with several of their male classmates during the course of the trip. They identified the local boy only as Joran.

The chaperonee later turned up at the casino asking questions about a boy named Joran.  A poker room manager consulted existing lists and reports suggest that it was then that the boy in question was first identified as having a last initial of "V." A casino employee suggested asking questions of other hotel employees and taxi drivers, at least one of whom first identified the boy as being Joran Van der Sloot, son of Anita and Paulus Van der Sloot and an honor roll student at the International School who has been known to frequent the casinos, sometimes in the company of his Father.

I've reported earlier below on what I have been told of Paulus Van der Sloot. If a discovered old profile from the International School is actually that of Anita Van der Sloot, as some suggest, it describes one Anita Van der Sloot - Hugen, a teacher at the school.

The found profile of one Anita Van der Sloot - Hugen lists her credentials and experience along with a favorite quotation of "Life is creation, creation is art" and a life mission "to become a spiritual leader," and also stating "My mission as an educator in this life is to touch students’ hearts and to lead them on the path of discovery and self-expression."

Some have suggested that if this is actually the profile of Ms. Van der Sloot, it contrasts starkly with the known but now disappeared web profile of Joran Van der Sloot. Joran's web profile was known to contain several pictures predominantly involving drinking and gambling in what appear to be clubs or casinos on Aruba. Additionally, some have characterized his taste in music as "mysogynist," though his taste in music seems to differ little from what many of America's youth listen to today.  Joran Van der Sloot is currently being held by Aruban authorities as the investigation into the disappearance of Natalee Holloway continues.

The previously mentioned DEA representative arrived at the hotel at approximately 8 PM and conversed with the chaperonee which resulted in the local police receiving a call from the chaperonee at approximately 9PM for an update on the Natalee Holloway situation. It has been reported to me that at that time no official report had been filed  and suggested that the member of the Aruban beach patrol failed to submit any information on the case. The DEA representative provided the chaperonee with contact information and left.

The parents of Natalee Holloway were reported to have arrived at the hotel at approximately 10 PM. Several of the Alabama businessmen and the chaperonee proceeded to Carlos and Charlies to see if they might gather additional information. Joran Van der Sloot appears to be a well known figure at the casino and an employee directed the group to a taxi driver said to be very knowledgeable as to comings and goings on the island. It was now approximately midnight.

The taxi driver provided more detailed information about Joran and the group decided to approach the police with the information they had gathered.  After discussing the information with the local police, the group, accompanied by two officers headed to the Van der Sloot home. The officers honked the horn repeatedly every few minutes in front of the house prior to the emergence of Joran's Father at approximately 12:30 am. 

Joran was not home and his father told the group that he could be found playing poker at one of the casinos in the Palm Beach area of Aruba.  The group, including the father, headed off to locate the boy.  Upon arriving at the casino, the police, security guards, along with Natalee's parents are said to have "swarmed" onto the floor and at least one report states the police had their weapons drawn.

The young Van der Sloot was not located in the casino. Soon thereafter, Joran Van der Sloot placed a call to his Father's cell phone and informed him that he was at home.

The entire group, including the police, headed back to the Van der Sloot home.  They arrived to find Joran Van der Sloot and Satish Kalpoe, the younger of two brothers recently detained in the matter, leaning casually against what has been reported to be the grey car now impounded in the investigation.

The police set about questioning the two boys. They are said to have claimed at that time that the now missing Natalee Holloway did indeed leave Carlos And Charlies with them and the entire group went to the lighthouse area together prior to dropping Natalee back at her hotel. The boys also made additional claims consistent with other earlier reports

With Natalee's Mother said to have remained in the car, possibly out of the emotion involved in meeting two of the now three boys alleged to have been the last to see her daughter alive, others in the group including the Stepfather were present as the questioning continued for approximately an hour.

Certain aspects of the discussion, some said to have involved Joran Van der Sloot's Father, led to the discussion becoming heated and police officers requested that the group disperse. More than one individual among the group of Americans present at the Joran home that night report a belief that the boys were lying and did indeed do something to harm Natalee Holloway.

Also mostly unreported as of this writing is the great toll this is taking upon many students and adults in Mountain Brook linked in some manner to this quite possibly tragic event. Reports suggest that some, including adults beyond Natalee's immediate family are struggling in ways we can only imagine as observers and need our patience and understanding, perhaps more than our judgments at this time.

In terms of additional minor reports, coversations with a source in Aruba today confirmed a seeming lack in the way of any formal statement from Deepak Kalpoe's attorney, said to be Romero Oomer. We agree that we find this in stark contrast to other attorneys in the case, most all of whom have made some, if not many statements to the press. It is being pointed out only as an observation and is meant to suggest nothing more.

Lastly, sources also confirm that FBI offcials from Birmingham have questioned several, if not all of the students on the trip.

As I stated in my initial introduction to this post - it was never intended to address anything like what might be described as leading to its resolution. However, as there seems to be many clouded and or conflicting statements as to the nature of the trip and developments in the early part of the investigation - it seemed worthy to try and clear up what speculation as could be at this time.

Of great disappointment to me personally is some of the racist, angry statements and accusations being hurled back and forth between two lands struggling with a common dilemma. Individuals within Aruba have done nothing but express extreme concern to me for the best possible resolution of this case. In my opinion, a small island which has functioned as a haven, if not a paradise for many vacationing Americans over the years should not take the full brunt of the confusion, anger and hostility brought about by a confounding situation that could and has occured on more than one occasion in America herself.

It is not out of character as mostly a conservative member of the blogging community for me to say that this is a time for all even remotely involved in this ordeal to view it as a common human pain, and not a state versus state struggle.

I am convinced from my reporting that while there are clearly some issues to be taken exception to as regards this investigation, unfortunately, I believe that most of what we are experiencing in the way of frustration over this case has more to do with what we might only expect from a small island struggling with a large problem - compounded by a significant communications gap mostly fostered by a language barrier and not political or economic intrigue.

Frankly, I did not start out thinking that way - conversations and communications with many over time have changed my mind. I would hope that most, if not all my readers would agree that our best thoughts, feelings and prayers should be supportive of and with Natalee, her family and community just now - and it serves no good purpose to turn our frustrations into unfounded accusations and anger directed at what, by and large, are all just innocent victims of a terrible ordeal.

May God help likely the most innocent and victimized of all - Natalee Holloway.

This post is also available at Blogger News Network.

Comments

[moxiemom]

"In my opinion, a small island which has functioned as a haven, if not a paradise for many vacationing Americans over the years should take the full brunt of the confusion, anger and hostility brought about by a confounding situation that could and has occured on more than one occasion in America herself."
***Did you man to say "shouldn't"? I think you did... Anyway, thanks for ALL you have done.

[Kris Kringle]

Let us not forget also that this island nation's single greatest revenue stream is tourism. I can only imagine that Aruba's citizens, as well as her government, are doing all that they can to resolve this matter in a manner that will be deemed satisfactory by all the World. A negative outcome (which might only entail Natalee never being seen again -- as opposed to something far worse) could very well destroy this nation's fragile economy.

"...the full brunt of the confusion, anger and hostility brought about by a confounding situation that could and has occured on more than one occasion in America herself."

Those of us who live in the proverbial "American Glass House" should be wary of casting stones.

I also just wanted to compliment the exemplary work you have done maintaining this Blog. I have been intrigued by the story of this poor young girl over the past few weeks, and have found myself on a perpetual quest scanning the internet for the latest news. You have continually provided us all with the most up-to-date and best-informed information I have been able to locate ANYWHERE. It has been presented in a very professional manner as well, and written very eloquently. My sincerest thanks and my compliments.

[MJM]

If Natalee mother stayed in the car, then her statement that she met him is untrue isn't it.

[Monslova]

I wonder does the Van der sloot boy come and go in his father's house with impunity? In other words, does the father know what time Joran came home on the night in question? Seems straightforward that he could confirm some portoin of Joran's story.

[matt]

Thanks for all your efforts Dan; excellent report and hopefully the remaining questions will be sorted away soon; once again a big THANKS and keep up the excellent work

[Karen]

Stumbled across your site about a week ago and have been glued here ever since. Had to get some sleep last night which was very difficult especially after reading your evening updates. I am calling off work today to stay here and wait for your posts.

[lawbster]

an english source from st. maarten another dutch island in the caribbean with many details

http://www.thedailyherald.com/news/daily/i21/girl21.html

http://www.thedailyherald.com/news/daily/i23/girl23.html

[Nick]

"If Natalee mother stayed in the car, then her statement that she met him is untrue isn't it. Posted by: MJM"
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MJM--no. This shows only that her mother didn't mean him THEN. She could have met him another time.

[lawbster]

one thing continues to nag at me: the PM's statement, "no one is above the law". why would he say that if they truly thought two security guards were responsible....they must have had a good idea early on who was responsible.

[MJM]

OK, that's a valid explanation.

But I would like to point out that there is no real evidence at this point, at least no real evidence that has been revealed, thus it is very likely that the "case" could just fizzle out. Because what people think might have occured does need to be proven in court, and I'm not seeing any hard evidence.

[Kate]

Here is a site that has a pic of the three local boys that are being held.

http://www.juiceenewsdaily.com/0605/news/photon_nat.html

[P in SE Asia]

Dan, again thanks for your very elaborate expose above.

Some of the questions which remain in my head as i try to take this in from a distance include:

Can the security guards sue anyone for the distress caused in all of this (as it pertains to dutch laws on the issue)?

Can the claim by one of the security guard's mother (as reported on SM) that she was discriminated against - with reference to seein her son - be verified?

What is police's rationale for not holding on to the 3 guys from the "get go"?

Has ANYONE suggested subjecting those guys to a LIE DETECTOR TEST?

Woud greatly apprecite if those issues were addressed.

Thanks

[MJM]

No Lie detectors are allowed under Dutch Law, because they are deemed inaccurate and I wholly agree with that.

[mom2]

I, also, (virtually) stumbled on this blog and think you're really doing a great job with information.

One thing though - I thought that Natalee's cell phone did not work in Aruba and that was why she did not have it with her?

Another, actually - I've read over the past few days that the three w/ Natalee left C&C at 1:30am and returned to the hotel at 2:00am. I also read that the drive to the lighthouse takes 20 minutes. What kind of engine is under that hood?

[Nick]

"one thing continues to nag at me: the PM's statement, "no one is above the law". why would he say that if they truly thought two security guards were responsible....they must have had a good idea early on who was responsible."

Lawbster--The reason he would say this is because at that time, everyone knew that a judge's son had been one of the last people to see Natalee that night. So even if they only two in custody were the security guards, many people would probably accuse the government of not arresting Joran because of his ties. Just imagine the people, armed with only that info, who would automatically acuse Aruba of being easy on the Judge's son. It's a normal societal reaction. So the PM, playing it smart, took the issue head on and said that "no one is above the law," implying that Joran was not skipped over because he had ties.

[GeOrGiA]

Dan, thank you for your tireless efforts at bringing us these details. As you predicted, many of the questions surrounding how this could happen with more than 100 people around her can now be put to rest. It seems to be our nature to want to lay blame and, for some, if the "blame" can't be laid at the feet of those three young men, then it goes to the victim. One of her classmates on the board at Scared Monkeys said Natalee's "eyes looked heavy" as they were leaving C&C that night - the poster said she/he thought Nat was leaving with another group of MB students. I got the impression a large crowd was leaving at the same time (closing time), so it is entirely possible that Nat just moved along with the crowd and got into a car she was led to - by those three boys. Anyway - I didn't want to speculate, only say we have to wait until this is all finished before we can lay the blame. Thank you, again, for your work here and please, keep it up!!

[tideroller]

Dan, I'm sorry, but while I agree that there is no need to be blaming countries, etc, I almost got the feeling while reading this "revealing" post that it was almost one more cover-up. I don't think you meant it to be that way, but I feel that you went "way too light" on some aspects of the whole affair. For example, for those of us familiar with how rampant favoritism works in Latin countries (and yes, we've got it here, look at the OJ and Jacko, etc. trial outcomes!) the polis's detaining of the black guards definitely seems to be an obvious attempt to finger anyone else but the wealthier, spoiled kids from the influential, priviledged class. Possible drug use was overlooked or not delved into much. It is important to know whether this was a factor. Had Natalee been drugged? It has been often repeated that the three young detainees had easy access to drugs. My son has reported that, on his senior trip to the Bahamas, they were approached about every 10 feet by locals on the beach, trying to offer them drugs. What explanation is there for Natalee's leaving, apparently, willingly, with the boys? Could you not describe that scene more fully? Some reports say that her eyelids were half-closed. What drugs, if any, could have induced this physical phenomenon? I read that her friends tried to get her to NOT leave with the boys. However, if she was known to be somewhat shy and naive, why were her friends not more insistent? Did anyone think of following her in a taxi? Massive participation in scouring the island, notwithstanding, I have NOT been impressed with the attitude of the Aruban people as they have repeatedly expressed their concern about their island's economy much more than their concern for the missing girl. A family member of mine, when visiting her family members who live in different resort areas, will not even enter the Carlos 'n' Charlies in those places. I am informed that this chain is known to be a place where drugs are easily obtainable and that they are "pick-up joints" and that many of the young Americans' behavior in these places is raucous and that the girls themselves often do the hitting on the local guys. Perhaps because of the bad reputation that the American girls, in general, have in places like that, the local guys are more persistent when trying to hit on them, being convinced that "they are all alike". Thus, the nicer girls can suffer for what the less nice ones do. Please, understand that I am talking in generalities here, not about anyone involved in this disappearance. But I do think it should be brought out just what goes on at these places so parents can maybe make better choices about where they allow their seniors to travel. Other than the beach, what is there to do on the island besides drinking, doing drugs, or hanging out in the casinos? There have been scanty reports that the Alabama students were drinking heavily, even before noon, and were quite visible because of their loud raucous behavior. Mum seems to pretty much be the word on any details of the other trip participants in general. I think that this should not be overlooked as it is important for parents to understand that our precious children sometimes do not have the best judgement when newly faced with freedoms that they do not enjoy back home. My heart goes out to Natalee, a bright, pretty and accomplished young lady, who apparently, made an unwise choice or had it made for her, and may have suffered tragically as a consequence. I cling to the hope that she is still alive, but, by now I am fearing the worst. I do think, however, that no details of this trip should be overlooked or glossed over as, perhaps, the only positive thing that may come of this whole tragedy is that other young people may be saved if these Senior Class Trips are exposed for what they are. My family has been relying on your blog for the quickest and most reliable information and we have been most appreciative, thanks for everything you have done up to now.

[SSP]

I live in Birmingham, and have also followed this case closely. Natalee's mom and step-dad both interviewed Joran the Tuesday before he was arrested on Thursday the 9th. This from news sources in Birmingham last Friday. If I find a link I will be sure to post it.
Dan, thank you for your investigation. I find it to be as close to perfect as it could be.

[mbhs05]

As a classmate, I want to say thank you for realizing that name calling and judgements are NOT helpful at this time! Adn for having the guts to say it. Her very close friends and her family are not doing well, and the rest of us are sick, too. Thank you for your help, and I encourage everyone to continue praying!

[Michele]

Dan, you said:
"Mountain Brook is home to a class of people some would describe as too well-off and perhaps a bit over-privileged; while still others will tell you it is the heart of an America that works hard for its money, establishes and runs banks and various businesses and fuels the great engine of commerce which funds the American dream."

Dan, does it have to be an either/or situation?
Yes the people there are very wealthy. No problem.
Yes many of the people there run and own industries and such like.
Yes, that's a good thing.

Did their over indulgence towards their children play a part in this tragedy?
Yes.
Did their lack of a sense of morality in sending these kids off to Aruba with permission to drink and gamble play a part in this tragedy?
Yes.

They are going to have to live with that.
And aren't they the lucky ones?

They get to live with the consequences of their actions.

Natalee doesn't.

[Dutchie]

Fucking christ, what's up with this blog being that obsessed about the disappearance? You guys living on the island? Relatives? Friends? Bloodthirsty sensation seekers that got nothing better to do?

[MJM]

I always thought that girls travel in pairs (at the least) sjeez, they even go to the restroom in pairs. Al least this has been my experience, and it's especially valid for the shy ones.

So where was Natalee's friend?

[Orange]

Wow! Dan truly amazing reporting here. The best I have seen in years quite frankly. Great work with a sensitive and volatile subject. Orange

[Getagrip]

That's a big leap, Michele. Over indulgence towards their children? Lack of morality for letting their kid go on this trip? That's harsh and uncalled for. Whatever did happen to Natalee, it has to do with the perpetrators lack of morality. Aruba is a safe place by all accounts.

Thanks for your report, Dan. I have to agree with tideroller, you're going a little light on the investigation and its lack of clear information, imo. Not to say it's surprising, given their lack of experience with this type of case.

I was raised in the Caribbean, as I've mentioned before, and this type of situation sounds all too familiar. White kids that are well connected receive special consideration. I've said it before and I'll say it again, had it not been for the extraordinary media attention this case has received, behind the scenes goings-ons would have gone on and they guilty party/parties would have never been caught.

The more I think about it, the clearer it becomes that this case is not solely a missing person case. I would venture to say that dozens (if not more) young girls go missing in the Caribbean every year, due to foul play or otherwise. So why has this case captured our attention? Because there's something else going on behind the scenes. A sub-par investigation, cover-ups, or cronyism, etc.

From your story, the main part that I came away with, is the feeling that Natalee's classmates and the chaperones should be given our understanding. This could have happened to any of us. People are so quick to jump and unjustly lay blame on them, it's disheartening to me.

P.S. Regarding the cell-phone questions people have brought up, I've used my Canadian cell phone in the Caribbean, and American phones work as well. It goes on roaming mode which can be very expensive which would explain why Natalee didn't use it during her 5 day trip (just guessing). Did a quick search for Verizon and they have roaming service in Aruba: http://mobileoptions.vzw.com/international/global/region/all_regions.html

[Getagrip]

One more observation about the 2 security guards. Some have claimed racism, which imo is not correct. It's about 'classism', which is prevalent in the islands. The comment that 'no one is above the law', serves to highlight that the perception is that rich and/or well connected individuals receive lighter treatment. This is true all over the world, not only in places like Aruba. It is only more apparent in these places because the clearer distinctions amongst classes.

[MARY]

I HAVE NO DOUBT IN MY MIND THAT THE 3 BOYS KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO NATALIE.THE YOUNGEST IS A SLIMEBAG AS FAR AS I AM CONCERNED. IF SHE IS STILL ALIVE THEN SHE IS NOT ON THE ISLAND. THIS CHARLIES PLACE IS A KNOWN DRUG HAVEN AND MANY SUSPICIOUS CHARACTERS HANG OUT THERE.IT SHOULD BE CLOSED DOWN. IT SPELLS TROUBLE FOR ALL THAT GO THERE. THERE ARE SEVERAL SENERIOS HERE THAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED TO NATALIE. ONE IF THESE BOYS COULD HAVE BEEN APPROACHED IF NOT ALL BY A SEX TRADE PERSON AND BEEN TOLD IF THEY WOULD MEET THEM SOMEWHERE WITH THE GIRL THEY WOULD PAY THEM A LOT OF MONEY. THEY TOOK HER TO THEM AND SHE IS GONE TO COLOMBIA ARE ELSEWHERE AND IS KIDNAPPED.
THEY WERE PAID OFF. ANOTHER SENERIO IS THAT ALL 3 RAPED HER AND THEN KILLED HER WHETHER IT WAS ACCIDENTAL OR ON PURPOSE. PROBABLY ON PURPOSE. AND WHO KNOWS WHAT THEY DID WITH THE BODY. COULD BE IN A DUMPSTER SOMEPLACE OR A LANDFILL...ARE THEY COULD HAVE BURIED HER IN THE BASEMENT OF A DESERTED HOUSE SOMEPLACE. OR..THEY SOMEHOW GOT HER OUT IN THE OCEAN FAR ENOUGH AND DUMPED HER BODY. LOOKS LIKE BY NOW HER CLOTHES WOULD WASH UP ON SHORE. IF SHE HAD ANY ONE. OTHERWISE THEY HAVE TO BE SOMEWHERE UNLESS THEY BURNED THEM. MYSTERY NOT SOLVED. HOPE IT WILL BE. THERE IS NO TELLING. WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO HER THEY SHOULD BE CRACKED TO TELL THE TRUTH. HELL, FOR ALL ANYONE KNOWS SHE COULD BE IN THE HANDS OF TERRORIST AND MIGHT END UP IN IRAQ WITH HER HEAD CHOPPED OFF. IT COULD BE ANYTHING.I JUST HOPE IT ENDS SOON. THIS NEEDS TO BE SETTLED. GOD BLESS HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
~ MARY ~ ATLANTA, GEORGIA

[cranston36]

What an extraordinary conglomeration of rubbish.

[FYI]

Mary, just an internet tip for you. Using all capitals is meant to convey SHOUTING on the internet and also is considered rude.

Another tip, always break up long posts into a few paragraphs. Don't worry about where you break up the paragraph, just do it, so that your message can be read more easily.

I am not being nasty to you, I am passing this on so your opinions or information will be read by all, rather than passed over because it is hard to read.

[unsurelok]

Well done Dan, as thorough a recounting of the facts in a a coherent timeline as anywhere...the net, MSM, talk radio....anywhere .

I have a question for your Aruba sources - Is there a positive ID of the car on the road anywhere after it left CnC's? Being such a small island I would think many vehicles are known by locals-the Honda of Joran's has aftermarket tailights and custom wheels which would make it more identifiable seems like it might have been seen, maybe someplace different than where they say they went. Why would you say you went to the lighthouse if that was where you commited the crime perhaps it was seen on the other side of the island.

[Belledoll]

I would just like to say that I'm rather tired of everyone talking about Aruba's safe and crime free reputation. Is it any wonder? After all, underage drinking is allowed without impunity, underage gambling is given free reign, and the way this investigation is going thus far...so is murder. Some safe place...

[US Citizen]

Tideroller, how naive must you be?

You state as absolute fact that Natalee MUST have been drugged in order to have left the bar with the locals that night. You can't think of another reason why an 18yr old girl off partying on her own for the first time in her life, celebrating graduation with other classmates of her's, all drinking HEAVILY, on her last night there would have left a bar with a wealthy good looking guy who knows the island inside and out and (likely) has connections everywhere he goes?? C'mon!

I am in NO WAY saying these guys are innocent (heck no!) I think they are guilty as hell and am APPAULED that the police let them go merely because they (<-- suspected criminals) pointed a finger elsewhere. That one act alone may very well have botched this entire investigation. In NO WAY do I think these three kids are clean, I think they either did it, or know what happened, and though none of us can prove that, I think that is becoming very clear. And I hope they rot in prison for it.

But don't for a minute think that the ONLY way she left with them was if she was drugged. I can think of many (MUCH more likely scenarios) that involve her leaving with Joran perfectly of her own will. My gut feeling is that this is either a consenting sexual act gone awry, or a date rape that turned into murder. Again, all guesses, all we can DO is guess at this point... but don't blindly claim that she must have been drugged, you don't know that, and it is quite likely she was drunk, not drugged.

[tideroller]

While I want to say that, of course, those truly responsible for this tragedy are the perpetrators. However that does not release other things from being contributing factors. As a parent, I feel it is unconscionable of any parent to send their youngsters on a trip that has no other purpose than to permit them free access to booze, drugs (if they want it), free sex (if they want it) and gambling. In an 18 year old's mind, this could be construed as Mom/ Dad's permission to indulge in those activities, indeed, almost a mandate to do so, even if the child does not normally engage in this type of behavior. Joran is an arrogant, narcissistic scumbag, granted. However, if the other contributing factors are not recognized and addressed, then there will be more Natalee Holloways on future Class trips.

[Gayle Lundgren]

You mentioned that classmates received calls from Natalee's phone only to find it was the chaperone. It is my understanding and experience that cell phones from the US don't work in Aruba. So how did the chaperone call the students in Alabama from that phone?

Just a question......

[Belledoll]

FYI:
Last summer I went to Ixtapa in Mexico with some of my Mexican relatives. We stopped at the Carlos 'n' Charlie's there and after seeing the waiter sitting on top of a blindfolded fellow gyrating away for five mintues as part of their show to get the participants sexually stimulated...we left. At the Carlos 'n' Charlies in Morelia, Michoacan, Mexico we saw American foreign exhange students getting alcohol with liberty at twelve noon. And we were also informed by the waiters that they loved seeing the Americna girls get wild and drunk as can be because it meant free sex.
If the school trip organizers had done any research into the local hot spots they would have quickly found out that Carlos 'n' Charlies and its sister bar "Senor Frog's" has the same kind of lewd drug front reputation everywhere. But I guess since the chaperones weren't chaperones, then neither were the organizers, organizers.

[Michele]

Someone said "

That's a big leap, Michele. Over indulgence towards their children? Lack of morality for letting their kid go on this trip? That's harsh and uncalled for. Whatever did happen to Natalee, it has to do with the perpetrators lack of morality. Aruba is a safe place by all accounts."

My reply:
Ues, I totally agree that the perpetrators lack of morality is the main factor here.

However, any thinking person would be remiss not to fully examine all the facts.

The people who stand accused had been drinking. Natalee had been drinking.

And by all accounts it was perfectly fine with Mr. Van Sloot and Mrs. Holloway-Twitty, the parents involved.

Teens do not always have or use the best judgement. Add booze to the equation and you get a disaster.

People need to wake up and smell the coffee. It's not wise or safe to indulge your teenagers to the point where they frequent bars and drink all night.

Nothing good is ever going to come of that and more times than I would like to recall, it's meant the death of some hapless teenager.

No, Natalee didn't deserve to die.

But certainly she deserved to more protection than what she received from her friends and family.

Maybe sending your kids off to drink and gamble carries a certain cache where you live, but to this mom of a teenager, it speaks of overindulgence, to a fault.

To my way of thinking, morality is in place for protection.

I wish more people thought like that.

1 Peter 5:8  ¶Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour

[tideroller]

UScitizen, I think if you will re-read my entry you will see that I said nothing of the kind. I am asking a question to seek alternatives to the reason as to why Natalee went with the three stooges unaccomapnied. I am seeking answers, not stating an opinion. I thought that was made clear enough in my original entry.

[Joran in Jail]

here some pictures of our little motherfucker:

http://www.martin.isnw.org/lekkerdoelloos/paginas/joran.html

[Man Fraid]

Tideroller -- great comment!

Why in the world is it necessary to have high school kids off to an island drinking booze. This is a behaviour that they were used too back in MB, Alabama.

Teenagers have NO BUSINESS drinking booze to fit-in, be lively. It puts them at RISK, EVERYTIME. My son is in HS and he gets to drink Coke, Juice, Water etc.. Beer and Wine (although in the house) are off limits.

This lady lost her cherished child, because she got drunk, couldn't be self-aware, and equally non-astute friends. Her friends were more focused on themselves, getting their own attention, being the life of the party. If you went to the bar with her, then you got to take her home. Especially if she had too many. You don't need special instructions for that.

All these kids have learned a HARD lesson. As they go off to college, hopefully, they'll learn when you to step in and take a friend home. Be content to just sit on the couch or balcony.

[KT]

Thank you for your insights, Michele.

I noticed on an Aruban blog sight a claim that bookings for vacationers from the US had increased since Natalee's disappearance. Can't find the sight now. Did anyone else see that? What do you think about that and how it could play into the case?

[Island Hopper]

The legal age to be in a casino in Aruba is 18 why is Joran in casino's with his wannabe judge daddy? Sound's like a crooked judge to me that would go above and beyond the law to help his boy. I'd guess this is exactly what has happened in this case and without the pressure of natalee's parents and the US media the poor men would have been fallguys for Joran and his delinquent friends.

Stop blaming the adults around an 18 year old and look at the adults responsible for a child that is 17.

[Lin]

It doesn't matter what walk of life she came from. She was young attractive and finished with high school. She went to Aruba to have fun and trusted the wrong person, remember she was just 18. Most parents think that their kids are not doing anything wrong at any time, but be realistic I know I did things when I was young that I didn't tell my parents. And I have an adult son that probably did too and I just never found out. It isn't the US or Arubas fault that this has happened. Thousands visit Aruba yearly. But the investagation is bull. There is no language barrier when it comes to Murder, Kidnapping, Disappearance or Interrogation. Natalee was probably drinking and we all know we aren't as responsable then. Wealthy parents don't condone this behavior teenagers are teenagers life is wide open and you see no danger. Everyone on this blog has more than likely (as they say) been there done that. Pray for her family and that they get some peace about their daughter. Don't blame Natalee or her parents she may have made a bad judgement in trusting those guys but who would think young men (of well to do parents) would KILL or KIDNAP her. And I am from Birmingham Alabama

[Jose]

Dan,

very good coverage, given the fact it is not many official information and that the police is working awfully slow. Also someone was right that the TV news would fade away and go with other more attracting news.

I've found this site two or three days ago, basically because I was puzzled that something like this has happened in Aruba. It is a personal thing I've been there at the same Holiday Inn more than 10 years ago ( at that time they were building a newer part on the North side of the original holiday Inn). My first impresion was that it was a crime free island just because the size and that it is a rocky island with vey few trees apart of the Divi Divi. In fact talking with a taxi driver we mention that and he says; well some minor crime is around like stealin thing from cars etc, but "very few". also different than most other neighboring island, it was the most american way style.

Then on the case of this girl ; how is it that even getting suspects they can not get a confession on them. It is clear they've never returned to the Hotel. So what is going on the lack of a clear answer to that is what make us being attracted to this sad story.

I would like to share some discrepancies or evident things n

1) The cell phone; ATT now Cingular works in almost all coutries in the world it could be true as the parents could use the stored numbers directly. Given the fact that they afforded a learjet to aruba they will not look at the ripoff that such calls might cost.

2) It is weird that her school friends were friend enough to enter her room and gather her belongings , and not stay with her or advice her the night before.

3) again with the cell phone; if they were so better off why she was not using it? . Basically for security reasons rather than to call friends . A 18 years old honor student is smart enough to recognize and identify the usefullness of such device.

4) The reputation of the "crazy" american girls ; I believe the girls doing so are always in a group of well know friends . I've never have that luck to enter a bar and find 10 model like girls drunk and asking to go with you. So this makes again weird to understand why this girl left alone with those guys.

4) How many boys were between the 123 others ? none of them have tried to get along with her? , but they were very interested on "playing poker with the dutch"?

In this way there are hundreds of questions. Remember Laci Peterson ?; a guy going to fish ALONE on Christmas eve????? come on !! , However the police took months to catch him. So , another similude here could be the body. I've remember I was scared of windsurfing and have a break down offshore palm beach (where the Holiday Inn is ) as the wind is ALWAYS blowing offshore and to the west. It was typically to predict you should show up in Panama if ever caught drifting there. So do not be surprised if the body shows up around there or other island to the west of Aruba.

Ok too much writing do far thanks again I hope the police use a more elaborated method to unveil the truth here.

[Tanya]

Any of these people missing?

[Island Hopper]

The legal age to be in a casino in Aruba is 18 why is Joran in casino's with his wannabe judge daddy? Sound's like a crooked judge to me that would go above and beyond the law to help his boy. I'd guess this is exactly what has happened in this case and without the pressure of natalee's parents and the US media the poor men would have been fallguys for Joran and his delinquent friends.

Stop blaming the adults around an 18 year old and look at the adults responsible for a child that is 17.

[Pamela]

I was just sitting here reading all of this.. (NOSY)(CONCERNED) (CURIOUS)mostly in utter disbelief.. When it dawned on me that I could be helping Natalie and her family if I would stop TYPING and start PRAYING... Gotta Go

[gumfoot]

Cellphone and purse in the room? It appears the cellphone did work at the hotel. The purse? That girl would not leave her purse and go out to Carlos and Co. She had to come back to the hotel--perhaps she somehow escaped the security cameras. Look to an inside hotel employee as a suspect. They are on the wrong track with current suspects.

[Mike]

Did anyone ever determine what the Dutch "experts" were brought in to do? I read on another site that the "team" of experts brought in consisted of only two people.

[smore]

Does anyone know anything about the Paradera area which is being searched?

[Starvin Marvin]

Who knows...
Regretfully a beautiful island of equally beautiful people do have tragedies. Likewise, back home in Alabama, Virginia or wherever there are people that do things, sometimes real bad things that change or end our lives.
So, when we travel overseas, go on a trip here in the US, we must always remember that life is tender and can be cut short. Yes, Natalee (her parents too) mad a choice that we all could have made. Yes, I will go or no thank you, I will stay with my friends. Unfortunately this young girl and her parents made two mistakes and they were to let her go to Aruba and for her to go to the Lighthouse with these unknowns. Mistakes or no mistakes, let us all pray for a positive answer to this unfortunate situation.
Furthermore, there is so much that is still to be answered by the officials there and the families of the three young men. Why did the authorities allow the three to be free for 10 days? Were they monitored during this time for their conversations and their actions? What a great time to have performed "discovery". Did they change their pattern of how they lived daily? The authorities just let them off to go about life as usual as someone elses life wasted away somewhere in the Caribbean. Why? Did Dad protect his son? Did he make calls on his cell or family or govt. phones? Have records been requested of their calls? Did Dad call the local Police Chief or vice versa? So much could have been done to arrest fears.
What about the others that are no longer around that have been lost in Aruba and in Curacao? What about the GYPSY BOATS? No one, not even the bloggers discuss the gypsy's and their activities between Venezuela and Columbia and the ABC Islands.
Again, always remember when traveling to be most careful. Who knows what lurks in the halls or the alleys of unknown lands, including America.

[Joran in Jail]

@ Man Fraid:

Maybe the problem is caused by the paranoid behaviour of most US-parents? My experience is that US kids are way more into drinking and drugs than European kids. When I was in America at age 19, i was surprised how childish most American kids were around age 18 till 21. They were acting like a bunch of babies on their first night out, having house parties when the parents were gone and did go all out on weed and alcohol. I wasn't allowed to drink alcohol in Florida, and I just laughed about it. I had experience in drinking from age 12 in Holland and I knew what i could and couldnt take. But these american kids just puked all over the streets because they just didnt know when to stop drinking. It was pathetic.

Kids in Europe, especially in Holland are allowed to drink at age 16, most are having their first drinking experiences around their 13th birthday. These kids learn how to deal with alcohol and they find their borders when it comes to drinking. Around age 16 European kids are way more 'grown-up' on this matter then the hyperactive teenagers from the US.
Why do you think there are more people smoking weed in America than in Amsterdam where it's actually legal to buy weed? The more you prohibit something It's all about letting go, and let these kids find out themselves. The more you prohibit something, the more a kid wants to experience it. And it will experience it, sooner or later. There's nothing you can do about it. So maybe you and all those other paranoid US-parents should have a look over here in Europe, where the raising of a teenager follows far more liberal ways than in the super conservative USA, where strict laws and tougher punishment do not result in lesser crime.

Think about this.