A Closer Look At EquuSearch

From the AP dispatch:

ORANJESTAD, Aruba (AP) - An Aruban park ranger on Thursday accused a Texas volunteer group of destroying a nest of endangered sea turtle eggs while searching for a missing U.S. teen on a beach, a charge the group denied.

Rangers at the Arikok National Park on Aruba's northern coast found a nest of hawks bill sea turtle eggs that had been dug up, leaving dozens of the eggs cracked and displaced, said head park ranger Salvador Franken.

The nest was found on a beach in the park on July 29, a day after the volunteer group Texas EquuSearch had been searching the area for clues into the disappearance of 18-year-old Natalee Holloway, Franken said. "Our rangers checked the coast that morning (before EquuSearch arrived) and everything was OK," Franken said. "The next day we found everything destroyed." Franken said the rangers didn't witness the eggs being damaged. But he said they believe EquuSearch was responsible because nobody else was seen on the rocky and isolated beach that day.

The Texas-based search organization seems to have its critics state-side, as well. At least one poster to a search and rescue related list-serve has been taking them to task.

I would like to hear the plan for searching this island. I understand there are water search dogs attending...or is that a dog--...? I think the sar-l list has questions concerning the numbers of finds that have been claimed by Equusearch.

Perhaps the search in Alvin was in those statistics? The one where Tim contacted the family and told them their father was found ....

As regards the story above, it's been reported that Miller contacted the family to express his condolences prior to any official notification that the missing Father was found deceased. I've also been told by one source that, while Miller may sometimes act impulsively, it would be out of character for him to do something uncaring or deliberately hurtful toward a family. His emotions are said to be extremely genuine in that regard.

The individual being questioned above is a self-proclaimed member of EquuSearch, it appears he has been responsible for managing at least a portion of the resource effort in the states:

Tim Miller has been invited to meet with the Prime Minister and Chief of Police tomorrow upon arrival. There will be a big press conference afterward and I suspect an invitation for other professional SAR resources to coordinate through Texas Equusearch (TES) in the search for Natalee.

We're trying to set up some type of screening process now. I'm NASAR trained like many of you. TES has been criticized by some because they don't always follow the NASAR handbook for searches. Others recognize and appreciate the results achieved. ... We don't know at this time about expenses being covered. Many corporations and individuals are generously helping with funding to support this sizable effort.

The NASAR handbook, which the alleged member suggests EquuSearch doesn't always "follow" is published by the National Association of Search and Rescue (NASAR.)

The National Association for Search and Rescue, Inc., (NASAR) is a not-for-profit membership association dedicated to advancing professional, literary, and scientific knowledge in fields related to search and rescue.

Other volunteer search and rescue professionals also offered very mixed reviews of EquuSearch. While all spoke highly of the vast majority of dedicated men and women who give their time and efforts to volunteer SAR efforts; it was also suggested that some individuals and groups seem to go astray. I was also told that the self-proclaimed TES member above and EquuSearch might be examples of that in some ways.

Sources state the individual above was expelled from a group for unethical behavior. Ultimately, I contacted several individuals across three states, each with extensive records of accomplishment and experience in SAR activities. All are also affiliated with organizations which train and validate their members. Not wanting to rely on one source for the expulsion information above, I contacted another individual who claimed to be able to verify the information above as they were a member of the Southeast Texas Search and Rescue Alliance (SETSARA). Below is their reply:

(deleted) and his organization (deleted) of one dog (his) and one handler (himself) were expelled from the Southeast Texas Search and Rescue Alliance in March of 2003 for multiple violations of that organization's Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethic can be found here. He was also expelled from TES at that time or shortly thereafter.

It is my understanding that sometime in the past few months (he) has been allowed to rejoin TES.

One of the behaviors cited as having resulted in the expulsion was his wearing a SARS vest to a victim's funeral, apparently seen as a breech in protocol, as well as misrepresenting himself as a 501C (3) non-profit corporation. It should be noted, to my knowledge that allegation has nothing to do with EquuSearch or Miller.

Unfortunately, the State of Texas has not been without controversy as regards search and rescue units - one particularly troubling example is STATTSAR, a Houston and Galveston-based group mentioned on page 98 of the linked pdf file:

Five Bay Area men, four of who were members of a nonprofit group that searched for missing and endangered children, have been sentenced by a federal judge in a child pornography case. U.S. District Court Judge Samuel Kent on Friday sentenced Thomas McBarron of Taylor Lake Village to 15 years and eight months in prison on charges of conspiracy to sexually exploit a child and possession of child pornography.

Also sentenced was Jason Krieg of Clear Lake, Henry Gerdes of Pearland and Greg Volkmann of Houston to five years in prison. The additional three originally faced similar charges, but all agreed to plead guilty to possession of child pornography and testified against McBarron. In return, other charges against them were dropped. All were members of Stattsar, a volunteer-based group aimed at helping locate children and runaways in the Houston and Galveston areas.

While I was told that Tim Miller had no relation with the group and probably disliked it, the other self-proclaimed TES member above is said to have been good friends with Thom McBarron, having co-hosted training sessions with him and other members of STATTSAR on a regular basis. I have no direct information that he knew of, or was otherwise involved with the groups criminal activity in any way. It came up as a result of a discussion on EquuSearch's claim to conduct background checks on its members.

One source did say that Tim Miller has claimed to have been co-operating with the FBI, in essence to investigate the STATTSAR group - the source added that they did not believe that claim to be true after having spoken to a member of the FBI involved. News reports from the time suggest it was actually a parent who came forward, leading to the arrests.

I was also told by another individual that 1.SRG was probably the best group for the task in Aruba, based upon their ability to deploy Internationally and perform competent search activities. It's said that when approached, the group declined as, based upon current information, it wasn't felt that they could be of much benefit. However, that individual was not speaking as an official spokesperson for 1.SRG. One individual I contacted stated that, based upon the situation on the ground the search in Aruba was destined to be little more than a media circus from the start.

Individuals affiliated with different SAR organizations all cited law enforcement, regardless of the location, as critical to the success of most SAR activities. It was suggested that some behaviors, one referenced here, with additional relevant posts here and here, were ultimately not helpful.

"There are basically two kinds of SAR groups," I was told - some comprised of well-meaning individuals selflessly dedicated to performing volunteer search and rescue missions, while other groups seem more focused on publicity and fund raising. Individuals contacted for this report all seemed to view EquuSearch as the latter. It should be noted that many of the individual SAR personnel deployed in Aruba are not official members of TES, but volunteers who often sign on to missions led by TES and other groups out of their dedication to performing the SAR mission.

From another unpaid SAR professional:

"With the exception of (name deleted), Tim Miller and Texas Equusearch are basically well meaning, but they operate on emotion and without the skills and training to run a search or an organization.

For the most part their members have no skills or formal search training. Yes, they have had some success, but if you throw enough people at a problem you are bound to get lucky sometime.

Accepting a mission for which you are not trained or qualified may do more damage than staying at home. What if due to deployment of unqualified and inappropriate resources they declare an area cleared when it is not. This could cause the area not to be searched again and could result in the person or evidence being missed entirely. This is the real danger in the use of the untrained volunteer in search operations.

Another report from the SARS list-serve involving EquuSearch and the search for Russ Turcotte can be found here. It suggests Tim Miller as head of EquuSearch may have shunned local knowledge and co-operation, possibly prolonging the search. Russell Turcotte was found by a rancher after EquuSearch had concluded its efforts. EquuSearch lists three news articles describing their efforts in the search for Russell Turncotte - information as regards his eventually being found had to be obtained elsewhere.

Particularly galling to one unpaid SAR professional were some of the bold pronouncements of EquuSearch's Tim Miller and spokesperson Joe Huston - indicating an anticipated quick resolution to the mission. Such statements were made early on and also periodically throughout the effort. In their view, such statements most likely complicate the suffering of the immediate family by giving false hope. "It's terrible to say," they related. "But in some ways I hope EquuSearch doesn't find Natalee. They'll be riding that find as a money maker forever."

I was unable to document an EquuSearch claim of a 70% find ratio with over 450 searches, as seen in a CBS report. I was told it could be all in the statistics. "If you go out over thirty times for one individual and the person eventually turns up found by someone else, is that a "find." I don't think, so." The individual suggested that one mission is usually comprised of several search efforts, the total combined into one search. Also, it was suggested that regardless of who finds a missing individual, EquuSearch may be claiming such finds as representative of their success.

"If you want to claim you found someone," they added, "then you better be standing over that body when it turns up."

Another SAR professional confirmed EquuSearch appears to use an unusual method of handling the find statistic - stating - "No one in SAR has that kind of find statistic".

According to the TES website, the organization is said to have been in existence since August of 2000 - five years. On average, EquuSearch would need to conduct ninety individual missions per year for five years and find 63 individuals a year, or average 1.2 finds a week to support those numbers, as tracked by most SAR professionals.

I was unable to verify that number by consulting the TES website, or by reading many available news accounts of the groups activities.

It is possible that they found large numbers of people during their deployment to Sri Lanka in wake of a tsunami, or other high-profile initiatives. But even the Sri Lankan deployment came under fire from one SAR professional. They claim it was a "self-deployment," meaning EquuSearch chose to go on its own. The source suggested such deployments are generally frowned upon as they often result in confusion and a lack of co-ordination and organization with official resources also deploying in the area.

Comments

[TexasGal]

Interesting!

[oneyka]

Well, Dan, after this loooong explanation of Saars and all that, maybe those park rangers should be helping for of a missing human being rather than worrying about some turtle eggs, I know it's their country, but come on!

And also I don't care what anybody says about Tim Miller, he also found her dead daughter and that is a blow that can never be forgotten in the whole life. His time and efforts and of those who assist him should be appreciated no matter the protocol or not protocol they follow, their good intentions are unique. I think Miller is a fine human being, and whether he drinks or not is no one business, and helping this mother in despair, who also has been critized lately and her family, should be appreciated and not belittled. I know I would never stop looking for my missing child, never! and I would also search for answers for the rest of my life. Thank you.

[frenchymom]

Thanks Dan, this is an interesting post. It would be interesting to have someone interview some of the employees/volunteers that work with TES. I'll bet some of them might have some interesting stories.

Mel

[leeza]

Great article Dan. I think Equusearch is about to find out how brutal the glare of big media can be. You can bet stories like yours will come out. I think the media have been quite restrained out of respect to the situation, but if Equusearch people don't stop appearing on TV makes a$$es of themselves, then all of the group's "quirks" are going to be discussed. Hopefully, donors will at least become aware of what they are supporting.

[TheAlamo]

What I have seen during this case is a glaring view of the lack of integrity on many, many people. Who knows if it's Miller, or whoever is funneling a bad rep for him? Who knows if the Aruba LE has botched the case, or there really isn't anything to find? Who knows whether the FBI is really doing anything, or just giving lip service to calm down the natives?
Don't know, but I guess if Miller and group have found just one person...then for that person and/or family, for sure, they were worth their salt.

What I have seen in my lifetime is a nation in which almost everybody had integrity, dive into a current state of trying to find just one person that does....

[leeza]

P.S. I have to agree with that about Equusearch finding Natalee. Of course, we have seen how they operate, so if they do find her it will be through pure dumb luck.

[NC greenbean]

AND,this all means............? The article, to me, was uninteresting and long.(maybe I'm just tired!) But, I don't see any other groups coming around to help, so, what's the answer? It's easy to make anyone look bad if you try hard enough. But what does this mean for NH and her family? Just go away and give up? I am very concerned with environmental and wildlife issues, also-but not at the expense of a human life. Sorry-but if Aruban LE, etc. had done their job in the first place, no turtle nests would have been disturbed-if that indeed is what even happened,and by whom it was done. Shame on them for another disproved allegation!!!!! NC greenbean

[scubajap]

What I have seen in my lifetime is a nation in which almost everybody had integrity, dive into a current state of trying to find just one person that does....

I am sorry, I find that really obtuse, what does that mean? Everyone in the U.S. has integrity, and no one in Aruba does? Are you seriously trying to say that?

[Anna]

They certainly found the missing woman in Houston last week and are on a search in Florida right now. This org is more than just Miller and the team on Aruba. Too bad this is smearing all of them with the same broad brush.

I wonder if there are any bloggers anywhere involved in anything questionable like the one who kidnapped the two children in Idaho. What should we think about that in relation to this comparison of S&R teams? These people donate their vacation time to do this for the most part so unless one is willing to go dig through the garbage, I can't see all the negativity as being warranted.

Linda Allison, Dave Holloway's sister has twice this week praised their effort as has Paul Reynolds and the Twittys. That is good enough for me.

[Alee]

I just don't get it....
Everyone is putting down the LE, the lawyers, the prosecutor, the suspects parents, the victim's parents, Aruba's media, US media, locals, MB friends, the search team and even NATALEE. Who's going to be next? Wait, I even remember hearing someone bad mouthing the FBI. People need to get a grip!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[NC greenbean]

Interesting article today on that other blog-(no names-don't want to get into trouble!) It was about a 29 yr. old travel writer who disappeared in Jamaica-I believe it was 5 years ago. Many screw-ups occured,such as in NH case. The parents finally had to have her declared dead in order to proceed with a lawsuit against the resort she was staying at. The parents said that if pressure had been kept on the LE agency there perhaps the case could have been solved. So maybe the H/T families are onto something-interesting article. Anyone else read it? NC greenb.

[Dan]

Was posted here a couple weeks ago, NC - the 23rd

http://www.riehlworldview.com/carnivorous_conservative/2005/07/natalee_hollowa_64.html

[NC greenbean]

Oops! I didn't see it until today. Guess I need to stay here and not be cheatin' on Dan in other places,huh? But, the article brought up some good points. Well, back to the salt mines tomorrow, so time to get some shut-eye:) Sweet dreams, all and G'night! NC greenbean

[TheAlamo]

scubajap
I am sorry, I find that really obtuse, what does that mean? Everyone in the U.S. has integrity, and no one in Aruba does? Are you seriously trying to say that?

Absolutely not. Sorry if you misinterpreted. I was pointing out that everyone in this deal seems to be on everybody's case. Exactly the opposite of what you gathered. Possibly it was not articulated the right way.
My point was..that everybody is attacking everybody else. Americans blame Aruba (how I don't know) Arubans blame Americans (how, I don't know). No one has stepped forward in the investigation showing any concern or integrity from an official standpoint. Can't judge Miller myself, but I can say that he is there...those attacking him are not.
I am a staunch opponent of "groupthink." As I have stated before, Aruba didn't do this crime. All Americans are not great. Everyone should be judged on an individual basis...not which group they belong to, or what everybody else thinks. Miller and his group may, or may not find Natalee, but at least they are there. Are those who are bashing him?
Turtle eggs? Over the life of a human? When people worry about crap like that, then yes, I question their integrity--no matter who they are. The hell with the turtles. They were there before we were, and they will probably be here long after we are gone.

[Roy]

And also I don't care what anybody says about Tim Miller, he also found her dead daughter and that is a blow that can never be forgotten in the whole life. His time and efforts and of those who assist him should be appreciated no matter the protocol or not protocol they follow, their good intentions are unique. I think Miller is a fine human being, and whether he drinks or not is no one business, and helping this mother in despair, who also has been critized lately and her family, should be appreciated and not belittled. I know I would never stop looking for my missing child, never! and I would also search for answers for the rest of my life. Thank you.

Posted by: oneyka | August 7, 2005 11:45 PM

Should we care about what you have to say.
I don't think so.

[iremember]

ugh. Dan let this go now.
I think that Tim Miller is sincere. I think he is human, prone to all the usual foolishness of our kind. I think that his presence in Aruba has been a source of strength to the Holloways and a source of irritation to the Aruban govt. I think those are both good things. I think that his crew could/should be more careful about how they spend their leisure time.

I think that on balance it's better that Tim Miller is doing what he does than if he wasn't.

Where's Natalee?

[DennisAOK]

I was also told by another individual that 1.SRG was probably the best group for the task in Aruba, based upon their ability to deploy Internationally and perform competent search activities. It's said that when approached, the group declined as, based upon current information, it wasn't felt that they could be of much benefit.

If not here, where? If not now, when?

[doesntreallymatter]

Texas Equisearch!!! What a Joke!!!!
I was just looking over their website, completely unbelievable!!! Almost every story they have archived (I only read 2004) has them involved but someone else always found the person! They also have "in action" pictures of searches they have been on that very distastefully shows the bone remains of 6 year old Opal Jennings. I would have never known they were this way if it wasn't for Dan! I don't understand the negativity towards Dan but yet you all still remain, that says something their! Dan your great keep your head up and the info coming, you have a ton of supporters and regulars, some of us just change our name to confuse you at times!!!

[just an observer]

"Great article Dan. I think Equusearch is about to find out how brutal the glare of big media can be. You can bet stories like yours will come out. I think the media have been quite restrained out of respect to the situation, but if Equusearch people don't stop appearing on TV makes a$$es of themselves, then all of the group's "quirks" are going to be discussed. Hopefully, donors will at least become aware of what they are supporting.

Posted by: leeza | August 8, 2005 12:03 AM"

The media has spinned this entire story the way they choose too. Than the forums and message boards have taken all of it and spinned it to the point of ridiculous. Bloggers like this state facts not fantasy the way the people on message boards, forums and the media do.

The facts are a woman is missing, we know few facts as most is speculative, unbeleivable rewards are bringing sudden "witnesses" out of the woodwork.

The media is making "stars" out of some family members. This is the worse coverage of any of the reality shows yet, remember the Levy, Schiavo, Peterson cases.

Any suggestion of what is perceived as negativity against Beth is attacked as if she is a saint and not to be talked negatively against. Thats ridiculous in itself. She has spinned this into a circus. Yesterday she actually said on Fox: "this isn't just about Natalee" and I thought to myself truer words were never spoken.

Thnaks Dan for allowing us to vent about this and for stating facts whether the media or any of the people who comment here and elsewhere like it or not! You take a lot of heat because you are not spinning unreality for the Beth and Co bunch who just want to heap praise upon a mere mortal. Natalee appears to be an afterthought.

[mona]

Should we care about what you have to say.
I don't think so.

Posted by: Roy | August 8, 2005 04:57 AM

Oh Hell! I thought you were going to promise to stat in your hole!

[NC greenbean]

And the first performers under the Big Top were the Aruban LE clowns! And hopefully,at the end of the show, those responsible for this crime will be in the grand parade,in handcuffs,on their way to the pokey! (and we all know who is responsible). NC greenbean

[Weber]

I for one am embarrassed by Equusearch. While I commend them for volunteering their time and commend Tim Miller in particular for his dedication to solving a crime, I also think that it is deplorable that they aren't more sensitive to local norms in Aruba. If they were guilty of destroying a sea turtle nest, then shame on them. I know that some will fall into the trap of "people vs. turtles", but the numbers of all of the 8 species of sea turtle in the world are in serious danger. These magnificent creatures are a marvelous resource, both as a food source for many indigenous people who know how to hunt them selectively without having a negative impact on population, and for tourism. If Equusearch knew that the odds were high of finding Natalee in that spot, then I might say, by all means, dig. But apparently Equusearch has acted with extreme disregard for the flora and fauna all over the island. Whether it is "right" or "wrong", they should understand that this makes a horrible impression. By making themselves more welcome and endearing to the Aruban people, wouldn't they get more cooperation?

(I am a Republican of the William Ruckelshaus variety, for those who think that I must be some radical environmentalist.)

[leeza]

Weber:I agree with you. If you watch the coverage of active searches, I think you will see the problem. I think they stumbled on the turtle eggs because they can't orient themselves using two dimenional guides (maps, etc). Then they end up "searching" wherever they are because they have news/entertainment cameras along for the ride. Shamefully, this tragic event is becoming reality TV at its worse.

[TheAlamo]

Miller is goofy, Miller is a drunk, Miller is....
I for one do not know these things as a fact. These things I do know. He is there and we are not. If we are not there, then how can we judge what he is doing? By media reports? Yeah, right. By reports from his competition? Sure. Unless you know the facts and the man personally, you are just guessing in your judgements--we all are. RESULTS. That is the key. If they find Natalee or what happened to Natalee, where will the people's voices be? Rah-rah, Miller!
I Don't know the guy. Can't judge him myself. As I said, he is there, and I am not.
As for the enviroment. Look at the world folks. It has been regulated to death, and what has changed. Not a damned thing--it is just getting worse. Why? Because the "regulators" are a bunch of bureaucrats who do not what the word "work" means. They "regulate" the poor guy, while the large corporations continue doing what they have always done. Wake up.
As for the extinction of a species. We didn't create them, and we don't have the power to destroy them. If it is their time to end, then that is the way it is. We have REAL problems in the world, and some broken turtle eggs is not even on the map.

[mrp]

well well lets just hope that know ones sons or daughters comes up missing and they would ever need equsearch then they would be putting there foot in there mouth ..

[clintcarter]

Turtle eggs or not; we all feel differently about things in our back yard as opposed to a world away.
It seems that part of Tim miller's efforts should be spent being sensitive to the (any) local situation. An effective search could not mean alienating the locals and showing no respect for the local environment.

[asamatteroffact]

"Miller... he is there...those attacking him are not."

[Paulo]

Thanks Dan,

I feel that what needs to be known about Mr. Miller was stated quite accurately in an earlier post.

Mr. Miller is human, and as such is given over to various and sundry behaviors that would to some, be abhorrent, and to others no big deal.

It doesn't seem in character for him to kill, albeit, as compassionate as he is, we all have succomed to the dark side.

I understand his frustration when he and his crew are working in gawd awful circumstances when it appears that the case is dwindling down, no perceived assistance from locals (operative word, "perceived") and in almost unbearable working circumstances.

Before the finger points however, one should really think about how many of these creatures and others like it have been killed by drunk teenagers, tourists, or those who are riding themselves of dead body.

Paulo

[nooneyouknow]

Two things: Just to put some reality in the SAR/Miller issue. I was trained in the USCoastGuard in SAR, and one of the first things you learn is logical organization of the search. Haphazard emotional searching is NO searching. Based on facts it seems clear that the Miller crew, regardless of intentions, are not professionals. Most of you are likely not old enough to remember the early 60's phrase: "Ugly American" and why we were called such. Seems little has changed....our prime export is still know-it-all arrogence.

Secondly, what do good feelings for people, fairness, God, etc have to do with a professional search? If, and according to the great research of facts that Dan has done (which some of you have not the attention span to read, apparently) the Miller organization as a whoile is making the claims of 1.6 finds/week for four years straight, he deserves no consideration as a professional SAR leader. Would you like your surgeon has a 70% success rate rather than the average 85%? I would. to operate on whims and emotion rather than training? I think not....or maybe good feelings will take your gall bladder out for you....me I would rather trust a trained professional when the chips are down. Sorry if I offended anyone.

[Isanah]

"The hell with the turtle eggs"

Here in NW Florida turtle eggs are protected in a very serious manner. There are laws to protect endangered species such as sea turtles and beach mice. Anyone breaking these laws would be arrested and fined. Just because you are helping in an investigation doesn't mean that you can break the law. I cannot even imagine the outrage that would have been displayed and the calls for justice if someone from another area, especially another country, came to NW Florida and did not respect the laws and rights of endangered species at our beaches. Since I haven't heard all that much about this incident perhaps the Arubians have "overlooked" it as to the severity of the crime! This is the kind of lawless behavior that give the USA a bad reputation in Aruba. If you are trying to help, you don't alienate the local population where ever you may be!

[TheAlamo]

I am happy for the turtles. Again I state, when you are comparing broken turtle eggs to the life/death/disappearance of a human being--there is no comparison.
As far as rights, animals are not human beings--they have no rights. When you show me one that can communicate on the same level, and be as productive as a human, then maybe I will entertain the thought that they have rights. Laws can be passed, but they cannot change reality. Anyone promoting an animal to the level of a human being, needs some serious counseling.
Besides the job of government employees is to keep their job. In other words, if they don't find "endangered species" or "child beaters," etc., they are out of a job. Therefore, what you will ALWAYS see from any government entity is a lot of fabrication. Isn't it amazing that all of the ills they are supposed to address never get "cured" but, instead always grow? Like I said, when comparing turtle eggs with the life of a human being--even yours---the hell with the turtles.

[Isanah]

TheAlamo,
You are doing nothing for this cause but you are displaying your ignorance. How compassionate can you be about human life and order in the world if you can't see what a disgrace it is do any harm to anything or anyone just to make a point. Nobody is comparing human life to turtle eggs, there is just a right way to accomplish something within the structure of a given situation. You have no respect for humans if you do not have respect for creatures that do not have a voice. often serial killers were known to have been abusive to animals. In your way of thinking perhaps some humans would still be alive if serial killers just kept killing animals instead. I don't think anyone in these forums would respect your opinion on the unnecessry killing of sea turtles without a good reason. if there was a good reason for him to dig in the area of the turtle nests then proper procedures could have been followed. Why don't you just admit that a mistake was made and regain your focus on other pertinent issues. Driving this issue just makes you sound like a fool.

[TheAlamo]

..... regain your focus on other pertinent issues. Driving this issue just makes you sound like a fool.
Displaying MY ignorance?
Man, talk about tender? What the heck does turtle eggs have to do with serial killers?
I have respect for humans that deserve respect. Being born is not something that deserves respect because the entity did nothing to earn it. Do you respect the killers/kidnappers of Natalie just because they are humans? Yes, animals do not need to be tortured, etc., I agree with that. However, the ISSUE was the turtle eggs...remember. Talk about losing focus.
I like how you group thinkers work..."In your way of thinking perhaps some humans would still be alive if serial killers just kept killing animals instead. "
No, that is your way of thinking, not mine. I will let you know what I think. I am quite capable of doing so without being told what to think. I think comparing this case to serial killers is WAY OUT THERE. Sea turtles and serial killers? And I need to get a focus? ROFLMAO!
Think I will go have some turtle soup.

[Isanah]

Perhaps it was a poor analogy, but it still makes you sound like an idiot that anyone values sea turtles more than human life. The point was the total disrespect he showed by disrupting the turtle nest without good reason and your total lack of conscious for what they did.

[NC greenbean]

Yes, those out there putting out these articles are succeeding-they are AGAIN taking our focus off of Natalee and the real issue-where is she and who is responsible? We can argue about turtle eggs when this case has been solved and Natalee has been found!!! NC greenbean

[TheAlamo]

Perhaps it was a poor analogy, but it still makes you sound like an idiot that anyone values sea turtles more than human life. The point was the total disrespect he showed by disrupting the turtle nest without good reason and your total lack of conscious for what they did.

I need translation of this: ..."but it still makes you sound like an idiot that anyone values sea turtles more than human life." ????
I really cannot get this. I did not say I valued sea turtles more than humans--I said....exactly the opposite. Go back and read my posts.

Next, you contradict yourself by saying that the ES guy showed disrespect by disrupting the turtle nest?

So what?...are you actually saying?

Let me make it clear for you. I seriously doubt the guy went out and intentionally disrupted the poor turtles. My guess is that he had finding Natalee on his mind. With things being as they are, I doubt he had any inkling about turtle eggs, and whether they were "protected" or not. No one has the time to waste doing studies on all of the animals government says are endangered, or protected. Most people have a life. You also omitted, forgot, or could not answer the actual gist of that post which is: If all of these government agencies meant to "protect us" or "help us" or whatever, then WHY are the situations not "cured?" My point is that you buy the lies that there is a shortage of "this animal" or "that substance" etc. I don't.

The wonderful thing about a free people is that you have the right to your opinion and I have the right to mine. What NEITHER of us has, is the right to use FORCE by means of government to impose those ideas on the other. That is what a free society is all about. Government agencies and bureaucracies are well better suited for totalitarian regimes. Which, until the last few decades--the USA was not. Unfortunately, Kruschev was right....we elected it.
So, back to Natalee!
(Greenbean was right above. Little of this has to do with Natalee Holloway.)

[FloridaPatty]

Rangers at the Arikok National Park on Aruba's northern coast found a nest of hawks bill sea turtle eggs that had been dug up, leaving dozens of the eggs cracked and displaced, said head park ranger Salvador Franken.

(Florida Patty moves her Notebook to the right)

(Florida Patty pulls her long hair back from her forehead and holds it in a ponytail behind her head)

(Florida Patty moves a few papers from her desk to the side)

(Florida Patty begins banging her head on the table over and over and over and over and over)

Sea turtle eggs?????????

Okay nature lovers, take no offense I'm a Floridian and know ALL ABOUT the plight of the endangered species but here's the Pyramid Question: What was Equuasearch looking for?

was it, ohhhh say, A BODY?

I just cannot believe the Darwin Award Winners this year and SO MANY from Aruba!

[Anna2]

These people donate their vacation time to do this for the most part so unless one is willing to go dig through the garbage, I can't see all the negativity as being warranted. Linda Allison, Dave Holloway's sister has twice this week praised their effort as has Paul Reynolds and the Twittys. That is good enough for me.

Posted by: Anna | August 8, 2005 12:30 AM

Anna,
I agree - if their help is welcomed by the family then it's good enough for me too. Thanks for pointing that out.

I do admit to having some reservations about some of the ES actions on Aruba & their attitudes in the media. However, if their efforts to find Natalee had been successful I doubt we would be hearing so much of the negative.

[birmingham dog]

Some of you need to UNDERSTAND and REALIZE that Dan is Trying his best to be a GOOD Repporter. In that effort Dan has to show both sides of any issue. A good reporter investigates, and digs into the situation, and with their fidings they htne report what they know about the story. it is up to you and I to make conclusions, with the facts that Dan persents to us.
I find it tragic that allot of you only want 1 side of this natalee Holloway case. Does that not bore you? If these findings by Dan upset you then the truth will upset you too. Dan is reporting facts, and I see no personal vendetta as some of you have alluded to. If you want only 1 side of this case just watch Gretta, or Geraldo, on those 2 shows you will get your fill of predatory statemnts and NO -Facts !
Good owrk dan, lots of times i dont agree with you, but you are trying to do a good job and present this case with all angles and facts, and then let us decide our own conclusions.

GWD

[Isanah]

OK Truce! Damn the sea turtles! LOL. As far valuing human life over sea turtles, I meant that wasn't the reason anyone protested the destruction of the nest. Did he ever have a reason to dig in that area in the first place? Should Aruba just let this guy dig up any place he chooses? I don't know the answers but do understand that there has to be some rules to how he goes about searching for NH. Like so many I've become addicted to this sad situation. However, the ES team seems to be no closer in finding NH than anyone else and their methods have left room for a lot of discord between the Arubians and the USA. Rightfully so, I wouldn't want there tactics in on my area beaches for whatever the cause.

[TheAlamo]

I agree--truce! You are probably a pretty good gal/guy--sorry, not sure by your handle.
Back to Natalee, ....

[1 for the money]

DAN?!? DAN!?! DAN?!? "One source did say that Tim Miller has ~claimed~ to have been co-operating with the FBI, in essence to investigate the STATTSAR group -~-~- the source added that they did not believe that claim to be true after having spoken to a member of the FBI involved. News reports from the time suggest it was actually a parent who came forward, leading to the arrests."

Have we tuned into the fox network? Ring your self out Dan, thats msm talk,.,.,.,.,,.,,.,..,. and your soaking wet

[Kelly G]

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/9013040

Small tid-bit regarding Natalee Holloway.

[Mike]

I was looking for information on Equusearch and came across this site and the August postings. I work in another volunteer SAR organization, Civil Air Patrol. Equusearch is a volunteer organization. Plane tickets, equipment, and supplies all cost money. It is clear people do not have an appreciation for the costs related to a search and rescue operations. Whatever imperfections they have, Equusearch is known to the public as a organization who will take the long odds against hope and try to make a difference.

After two months of active duty for the state of Texas, supporting hurricane relief efforts I have nothing but respect for volunteers who put their lives on hold in order to help others.

[SAR Volunteer]

Doesntreallymatter- made the comment that Texas Equusearch 'distastefully' showed the bones of 6 Year Old Opal Jo Dance Jennings on their Website in 2004. Texas Equusearch was no longer on Opal's case in 2004, and was not on that search that resulted in her find. Equusearch was on the Opal Jennings case in March of 2002, and resulted in no find. They were in the Fort Worth/Saginaw area for a week conducting searches. They brought in Cadavar dogs as well. They (Tim) bribed the wife of who is suspected (convicted) in Abducting/Murdering Opal in submitting information on the case. This would make her an accessory to the case, in which she didnt present any information.
Months later, Equusearch was no longer on the case. United Response Search and Rescue took over the case, along with Opals Family. In January of 2004 owners of an independant property were riding their horses when they made the discovery of human remains (a human skull). They called the police, and that was a crime scene. Police officers brought in their Cadets who did a search (grid) because it had been almost 5 years since her dissapearance her remains were skattered up to 2 miles. FBI came in on the case, as well. Texas Equusearch was no where to be seen when she was found, however a representative did come to her funeral.
If there were 'remains' that were claiming that they were that of Opal Jennings, and claiming that their team found Opal; that is a fraudulant statement, and a fraudulant post.
I have first hand knowledge, and have been an insider of the situation for more than 4 years.

[No Friend]

You're definately on to something regarding Texas Equsearch. I would highly recommend that you keep up the pressure and keep asking questions. There are a lot of times a book cover looks great on the news stand, but when you bring it home and actually read it, it stinks like rotten tomatos.

[No Friend]

So Dan, any updates on Equusearch? Come on man, show the world what Timmy boy is up to.