Re-Thinking The Natalee Holloway Disappearance

A quick note before I start, Greta is on TV talking about the ABC video. This was a casino video - Beth knew it existed. What does it say about Fox's actual reporting that it came from another network after all this time? If you really think Greta Van Sustern is some kind of an actual news reporter, you must be daft.

Many of the followers of the Natalee Holloway case seem to have had it ingrained into them via cable news that Joran Van Der Sloot is a murderer and a rapist. No other answer will do. However, there are some good reasons to reflect back on events and at least contemplate another possibility, if not two or three. But I'll only deal with one here. Is it possible one or both of the Kalpoes raped and murdered Natalee Holloway and had help to hide the crime?

Let's review some facts and some items, even if they can't be confirmed as true.

Fact, starting with an outrageous report from Geraldo Rivera, cable news cast Joran Van Der Sloot as a devil long before there was any proof. And, actually, there never has been any proof of such a thing, other than he lied early in the investigation. People were informed by Geraldo Rivera Joran made and sold a pornographic video featuring underage girls - not true. We've been told there is a long line of Aruban girls who claim Joran was involved in some rape, or date rape scenario with them, but none have been produced.

At the same time I did conduct personal interviews with two separate females who either knew Van Der Sloot or dated him. One was living in the US at the time, far from any intimidation or threat. Those interviews gave no such impression of an evil Joran, in fact, the opposite. And there was also an American girl, however misguided, who spoke out favorably on his behalf.

Based upon the facts I know to be true, versus the hyperbole of cable news, there's simply no way for me to conclude Van Der Sloot is an evil rapist or murderer. And if there were, I would say so.

Like it or not, Fox and Natalee's Mother gave everyone a villain before there was any actual proof of a crime. Even the Mountain Brook students who encountered Joran spoke well of him until the story began to be shaped in a narrative designed more to hold an audience, than to inform.

So, suppose the assertion that Satish Kalpoe did drive Joran home that night is true. I've heard there is reason to believe it from actual police reports, despite the denials of the Kalpoe attorney. The fact is, if he admitted it, it would put his clients in a real bind.

Consider this. If either of the Kalpoes drove Joran home, not only would they know he left Natalee alive, but he would be over an hour on foot away from her - and he of all of the three boys did not have a access to a vehicle. Could Satish have decided to take a quick drive back to the beach where Natalee was left after dropping Joran at home? I can't suggest he did, but I also certainly can't rule it out.

And remember, there are reports, one which I myself passed along, which was apparently confirmed, that the two Kalpoe brothers were cleaning out Deepak's vehicle shortly after Natalee's disappearance. Why would that be if they simply dropped Joran and Natalee off at the beach? Did something go on in that vehicle after Joran was dropped at home?

Also, enter Steve Croes who foolishly stepped in to try and give the boys an alibi. He was not a friend of Joran's. He was a friend of Deepaks, so far as I can tell.

I'm not trying to steer attention away from Van Der Sloot. My interest in this case began like most people's, with a genuine desire to find out the truth of what happened to a missing young girl. That's never changed. I've forced myself to not buy into the unsupported statements, the confusing allegations, not because I don't like someone, but because there was no way for me to see how such things would lead me to the truth.

It's easy to blame someone for a crime you can't prove they committed. It's more difficult to reign in your emotions and insist on solid evidence because it's the only thing which can give you solid answers. When I look at what I personally have been able to learn of the principles in this case, it's more difficult for me to conclude Joran did it, than to conclude he did not.

And if that indeed is the case, it opens up the possibilities to some other interesting scenarios which may not have been as over-zealously pursued. Something happened in or around that beach that night in Aruba. And someone likely knows what it was. And at least one possible reason why we've never gotten answers is because we've been asking the wrong person.

Lastly, a senior criminal interrogator was brought in from Holland. And his reputation was that of one of the best. After significant time going at Joran Van Der Sloot, his conclusion was there likely wasn't anything else there to get.

Whatever the case, unfortunately, while the video tomorrow night on PrimeTime may be compelling for some, I doubt it will yield any of the real answers people want when it comes to the disappearance of Natalee Holloway.

Update: I meant to add this. I realize no matter what I write here, some of you are going to insist everything is the work of those sneaky, scheming Dutch - but it's a fact. Joran has not been cleared as a suspect in this case. If he were actually a good liar, his early lies likely wouldn't have come to light. Fact is, he's a bad liar, apparently.

His Father knows the law. I have a difficult time believing his Father would allow him to go on TV for an extended interview now of any kind, with any restriction, given that one misstatement captured on tape could put him back in jail. Based on logic, it's difficult to conclude he has anything to hide.

Maybe he does. But if he did and he was my son, he wouldn't go near a television studio under any conditions until he was cleared as a suspect and not subject to re-arrest.

Comments

[wreck]

Then I have to say that I am out of control too...Cause I go almost everynight to the casino...my bad

Posted by: Arubaanse | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 06:57 PM

I thought there was an Aruban law that limited locals from going to the Casinos to once a week? Are you out til 3am everynight?

[Bitsey]

Please check you facts, One Nat is not a kid she is 18 years old. In Canada and the USA adults reported missing will not be investigated until 48 hours, some palces in the world it is 72. Younger childern they are investigated sooner.
Posted by: Myth | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 06:55 PM

Hogwash. American police respond to all missing persons reports IMMEDIATELY, even in Las Vegas. Police take the report and, depending on circumstances, decide to immediately investigate or wait.

[Arubaanse]

I thought there was an Aruban law that limited locals from going to the Casinos to once a week? Are you out til 3am everynight?

Posted by: wreck | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:00 PM

WHAT???? That is in the past...long time ago

[wreck]

WHAT???? That is in the past...long time ago

Posted by: Arubaanse | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:03 PM
I think it is still the law -- just not enforced (much like underage drinking laws).

[Arubaanse]

Are you out til 3am everynight?

Posted by: wreck | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:00 PM

I am out there until 3am and then I go to Christal casino that stays open 24/7

[roy]

Hi Arubaanse,
how are you today?

[xxx]

Then I have to say that I am out of control too...Cause I go almost everynight to the casino...my bad
____________

Are you in high school?

[Arubaanse]

Hi Arubaanse,
how are you today?

Posted by: roy | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:06 PM

Good
Thank you and how are you??

Are you in high school?

Posted by: xxx | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:07 PM

I just finished high school and I am going to college now...

[annie]

Why are people so angry at Aruba? They have done much more than most countries would, including the US. Also, even if you are absolutely sure that Joran & Co did the deed (although, there is no proof of this), none of the three are Arubans. I don't get the logic of this hatred for Aruba. Here, in UK, because Natalee was 18, the chances are that her disappearance would not have brought much interest, unless Beth could have produced blood or other indication of foul play, and there is not that either.

[Myth]

So why do they have to investigate there was no evidence, no signs of a struggle, no witness. Her own friends left and didn't even report her missing until after they all left. There was no need to investigate, the ALE are not psychic, so they waited the appropriate amount of time. Like any police officer would.

[Arubaanse]

Posted by: annie | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:12 PM

Hey Annie,

Are from the UK? Cool!! I am going there for this summer. I am going there to see the carnival in Notting hill:)

[xxx]

I just finished high school and I am going to college now...
___________

Okay, then you should be going out six nights a week, staying out til 3+AM, absolutely.

Maybe it is an Aruban thing, I wasn't allowed to stay out past midnight while I was in high school and lived at home, and I suspect that is the way w/most Americans...so seeing Joran out til all hours gambling and drinking seems out of control to me...I also drank a lot in h.s. but my parents didn't know it, would never have approved or allowed it.

[roy]

Arubaanse, I am okay.
Seems like we must have been in the same casino some time or the other.
My favorit is Stellaris Casino (Marriott).
favorit passtime 'Let it Ride Poker' and those cute 1 Ct machines.

[Arubaanse]

Correction: Are you from UK??

Are from the UK?

[annie]

I think you will love it Arubaanse, and you will meet people from all over the world there. It has grown to be quite something now.

[Arubaanse]

Okay, then you should be going out six nights a week, staying out til 3+AM, absolutely.

Maybe it is an Aruban thing, I wasn't allowed to stay out past midnight while I was in high school and lived at home, and I suspect that is the way w/most Americans...so seeing Joran out til all hours gambling and drinking seems out of control to me...I also drank a lot in h.s. but my parents didn't know it, would never have approved or allowed it.

Posted by: xxx | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:17 PM

Well the thing is that I go everytime with my parents...They are my best friend so we do everything 2ghter.
>>>>
Arubaanse, I am okay.
Seems like we must have been in the same casino some time or the other.
My favorit is Stellaris Casino (Marriott).
favorit passtime 'Let it Ride Poker' and those cute 1 Ct machines.

Posted by: roy | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:17 PM

I love that one too and my aunt works there so maybe you know her...or maybe I know you so:)
My parents work at the Allegro casino but it's in renovation so they work now in Holiday inn

[Arubaanse]

I think you will love it Arubaanse, and you will meet people from all over the world there. It has grown to be quite something now.

Posted by: annie | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:19 PM

Yes...I heard great things about the carnival there and I love carnival!! I am going there with my mother so...I know i am going lot's fun. It's 31 of august, right??

[annie]

The age limit for drinking here in UK is 18, so it no big deal seeing these kids drinking, but not nice to see them drunk, especially girls, which is happening more often.

[a..incanada]

Great post Dan!
I don't know if I should bring this up, but I will because it bothers me alot.
People need to blame someone, and it seems some are quite ready to switch rather rapidly. Especially with J2K. Now with Satish being the most quiet, least talked about, fingers are beginning to point to him. These 3 boys!!
There was alot going on that night on the Island. With all the boats around at any time, there were also 35 to 40 more from surrounding areas for the Soul Fest. Methinks there's alot more to consider. The one thing that bothers me, is that on another forum it has been stated some months ago that Satish was gay. Not that I have anything against such individuals, as their orientation bothers me none! If this were true, then he also would really not have any desire to return to where Natalee was supposedly left. Deepak was on the computer, as the triangulation points out, and Joran was walking as he had initially said. Long legged and physically fit, it would not be difficult for Joran to make those strides home in the time specified. Being that the soul fest was presented that particular day and night, the many that came from other Islands likely would have been young people, and quite possibly young males with raging hormones. There were never any posters put out to the other Islands initially, as Beth and Co. were sure it was J2K. People want to keep pointing at either 1, 2, or all 3 of these particular boys, when it could have been any one or two, or more of any hundreds of guys, from any of the Islands. Not a shoe, not one tiny shred of anything left of Natalee doesn't mean that these boys were extremely careful; it could have been any scenario and because it was so badly driven by the media and Beth, totally off course. I suppose there is no way to know if Satish has different orientation, as most people still do not want to have that publisized, but if he is, then this finger pointing so quickly, bothers me alot. I sense some racial overtones.

[annie]

Not sure what day unless I look it up. Last year, it was quite hot and the cops had cordoned off the streets, so summer some time of course. We gave a lift to some young French speaking people who were on their way there, and did not speak the language and could not work out how to get there by tube.

[Arubaanse]

Arubans are very conservative so most parents here wont allow their kids to go to the casino and stay until 3 am in the morning. My brother is one year yonger then me but he is not allowed to go anywhere cause my parents don't trust him. But my parents know that I wont do anything dumb and plus everywhere I go, I go with them...

[Arubaanse]

Not sure what day unless I look it up. Last year, it was quite hot and the cops had cordoned off the streets, so summer some time of course. We gave a lift to some young French speaking people who were on their way there, and did not speak the language and could not work out how to get there by tube.

Posted by: annie | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:35 PM

Will you be there this year??

[roy]

I love that one too and my aunt works there so maybe you know her...or maybe I know you so:)
My parents work at the Allegro casino but it's in renovation so they work now in Holiday inn

Posted by: Arubaanse | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:25 PM

If you see some brownskin guy with white/grey hair and beard in blue or black jeans then you know it's me.

[wreck]

Arubans are very conservative so most parents here wont allow their kids to go to the casino and stay until 3 am in the morning. My brother is one year yonger then me but he is not allowed to go anywhere cause my parents don't trust him. But my parents know that I wont do anything dumb and plus everywhere I go, I go with them...

Posted by: Arubaanse | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:36 PM
You parents seem to be good ones! It sounds like the way Joran was apparently raised was in the vast minority.

[roy]

Hogwash. American police respond to all missing persons reports IMMEDIATELY,

Posted by: Bitsey | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:01 PM

Is that so?
And since when?
And what do you considder respond?

[Arubaanse]

Posted by: a..incanada | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:33 PM

You know...I also find it very strange...there must be more people involve in this...Nobody knows what came to the island. Hmmm?

[annie]

a..incanada

What you are saying is a valid point, IF Joran walked back alone that night, but if he was given a lift by Satish then why did Joran text Deepak, knowing that Satish was on his way home, and could have told Deepak this himself?

[Arubaanse]

You parents seem to be good ones! It sounds like the way Joran was apparently raised was in the vast minority.

Posted by: wreck | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:40 PM

My parents are wonderfull...I really love them. What can I say they are my best friens!

>>>
If you see some brownskin guy with white/grey hair and beard in blue or black jeans then you know it's me.

Posted by: roy | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:39 PM

I am going to start pay attention...hahah:)

[annie]

Arubaanse

I might be, but don't know yet, as they have it on a Sunday, and usually go to Church.

[annie]

a..incanada

Do you know Joran personally?

[a..incanada]

Annie, do we know for sure if Satish returned to pick up Joran. Well, Joran said it this last interview, but I'm wondering if this is not a continuance of the frakas the boys had in court some time ago. Could it be possible that the three are now on the outs with each other, that is, 2K with Joran,and they may try to throw speculation at each other. Sometimes a simple comment, not meaning to lie, but just a change or variance can be given innocently. When people are under pressure, it is unbelievable sometimes the nonsense that can pop out of their mouths. What other scenario can it be if Satish gave Joran a ride home, the text message, from Joran to Deepak, could be as simple as Joran jesting in the sense,"thanks for nothing, for not picking me up", or it could have been something I'd rather not hear. All these things could also not be the truth, that is, the most recent comments by Joran and the previous comments of Kock.

[roy]

I am going to start pay attention...hahah:)
Posted by: Arubaanse | Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 07:49 PM

okay. :-)

[annie]

a..incanada

Yes, you are right, but if Joran is now saying that Satish gave him a lift, {and I don't know if that is true, but this seems to be the latest indication), then why would Joran say that if it is not true? The brothers seem to be saying they did not, thus distancing themselves from Joran, Natalee and the beach. I don't get the impression that Joran would deliberately implicate his friends if they did not give him a lift. Perhaps, he is simply telling the truth for once. If so, then it is up to the Kalpoes to do some explaining.

[annie]

Please don't think I am some lynch mob type of person. I honestly would like to know the truth, and am not fixated on Joran & Co as being guilty as there are lots of other things that could have happened to Natalee, but any inconsistency in their story would need explaining.

[Arubaanse]

Or maybe he said that before and now we are hearing this from his own mouth not what he/she said.

[Woodbridge]

What's this all abooot ...a????

[Arubaanse]

I heard their are not friends anymore but I want to know why is that?? Why aren't they friends anymore??

[Arubaanse]

sorry i meant they not their

[annie]

Yes, that has always been the problem. Most of the information has been second hand, and I know their lawyers are telling these boys not to speak to anybody. but all that is producing is a load of spin and misinformation, and they can't look any guiltier than they already do in a lot of people's eyes. If they had nothing to do with her disappearance then they should come out and say so. I think Joran has helped his cause more by speaking out than by just staying silent and letting those that hate him say it for him!!

[BobbyTrendy]

All this Holloway stuff is too much of a burden on their friendship, since they're constantly reminded of the fact that they, as a group of friends, were the last with Natalee. Bye friendship....

[a..incanada]

Annie, I agree with you. There needs to be more explaining. The total truth hopefully. I'm also not a lynch mob type of person, and I can't see any of these 3 boys as they have been portrayed, at all. If a crime happened, someone very good at covering up details would have been responsible, IMHO. I've always thought of Jossy, not that he would get his hands dirty, but I'm thinking he could find someone easily, and he had untoward feelings already for PVDS. (I was going to stop speculating.)
Or another possibility if Natalee didn't want to go back to her friends, may have been taken to one of those places mentioned previously, where people go to sleep off their drugs. It has happened to tourists and it could be a possibility, only that the tourists that slept off their drugs, returned within a few days. (Back to speculating again, darn it.)

[wreck]

They don't like each other because their stories don't match anymore -- simple.

[BobbyTrendy]

I've always thought of Jossy, not that he would get his hands dirty, but I'm thinking he could find someone easily, and he had untoward feelings already for PVDS. (I was going to stop speculating.)

Jossy can be a little bit of a cowboy but he's not stupid.

[annie]

Another thing that was never told (not that I have heard of it anyway), is the medication that Natalee was taking. If she had been drinking, how would that have interacted with this. Her mother only tells what she wants to as well. She has discussed all kinds of personal stuff about Natalee, so why not say what Natalee was taking medication for?

[JW]

Joran and 2K were together when J text messaged Deepak, they were in the car near the racquet club near to wear they buried Natalee. 2k went home at about 3 according to mom k, Joran dropped off at home a little before 3 by both boys. Paulus wants to know what happened when Joran comes home with blood on his clothes and Joran tells dad. Dad and Joran go back out and dig up the body and bring it back to their property until they can figure out what to do with it. They call Steve Croes, Joran goes to school and says she drowned. just my opinion, friends of Paulus have kept this thing from being solved.

[xxx]

If Natalee died of a drug interaction where is her body?

If that was all that happened to her Joran's lawyer father would have gone and gotten her remains himself to prove once and for all that no one had sex with her, let alone raped her, and no violence was done to her.

But he didn't. There would be no reason anyone would permanently dispose of a young girl's body if she died of natural causes, let alone continue to lie about it for nine months putting her parents through perpetutal hell.

[a..incanada]

Another reason for text messaging could have been to confirm that they would go to the casino the following night because of the tournament that was ongoing at the casino, because Joran would be in school during the day and with Deepak working afternoons, communications could have been hampered during the day/evening.

[annie]

It appears now that the message sent to Deepak from Joran was an e-mail, not a text! Also, both Kalpoes could not have been out and about killing Natalee because one of them was using the internet until 3am, so the report that they were all three seen together does not tally.

[annie]

The medication Natalee was using would be important if she had been drinking and then decided to go for a swim. Her body would never have been found if she had been washed out to sea.

[annie]

a..incanada

You seem to know a lot about the doings of Joran & Co. Do you know any of them personally?