Effective Business Intelligence Protects Company Bottom-line

Whether your company is entering a merger, considering an investment, or assessing a competitor’s advantage, due diligence is a necessary factor to ensure a successful outcome.  Business leaders know the importance of growth but every opportunity presented holds the potential for success or failure.

Business intelligence consists of collecting and organizing large amounts of data that enable businesses to identify opportunities and develop strategies that promote long-term success. Hans Peter Luhn, a researcher for IBM, said in a 1958 IBM Journal article, “Business intelligence is the ability to apprehend the interrelationships of presented facts in such a way as to guide action toward a desired goal.”

Making better decisions based on business intelligence

Successful business leaders know the importance of information gathering and review before making any business decision. They draw information and knowledge from various professional disciplines including business consulting, law firms, journalists, and of course investigators.

For instance, when considering a merger with another company it is crucial to know as much about the company’s history, business management, ethics, financial solvency, possible undisclosed liabilities, leadership of the company, and their affiliations. All business transactions have potential risks and it important to assess these risks prior to entering any business transaction. The public information gathered can be quite revealing and prevent a decision that could devastate years of hard work, reputation, and even avoid litigation in the aftermath.

Another circumstance that could arise is that your company may want to know the demographics of your competitor’s clients. The information gathered would contain the number of products offered by the company, how many were products were purchased, how many were sold to men or women, the age brackets of those who purchased the products, the average income level, zip code, and level of education. Utilizing a combination of commercial due diligence and intensive analytical due diligence can forecast sales growth; identify a competitor’s operational metrics, procurement, customer management, and even fraud.

Benefits of internal business intelligence

While business intelligence can identify external opportunities and risks, internal business intelligence can be equally important. For instance, in the Human Resources Department of a company, the data collected on employee’s absences can be a predictive trend and therefore a strategy developed to combat income loss and retain employees. The same company may want to gauge how their latest marketing campaign is increasing sales in order to produce a trend analysis report and present the information in east to understand graphs and charts in PowerPoint at the next Board Meeting. The advantage of data analysis is endless when assessing performance measures of a business.

The risks of economic espionage

Corporations of all sizes face risks both internally and externally. Protecting trade and investment secrets has become increasingly difficult for large corporations entering the age of cyberspace. International corporations face increased loss and risk that ultimately affects the American economy.

In June 2000, Bloomberg BusinessWeek reported Larry Ellison, Chief Executive of Oracle admitted to hiring a private detective agency to investigate groups that supported Microsoft. Oracle was trying to uncover ties to research groups that had been releasing studies supportive of Microsoft during an antitrust trial.

Claiming it was his “civic duty” to investigate Microsoft’s affiliations, it was uncovered, the investigative group hired by Oracle attempted to buy trash from two housekeepers at the Association for Competitive Technology.

In a June 28, 2012, statement before the House Committee on Homeland Security and Subcommittee on Counter-terrorism and Intelligence, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Counter Intelligence Division, estimated more than $13 billion losses to the American economy due to economic espionage.

Whether an insider employee is selling trade secrets, a competitor is attempting to infiltrate, or a company is the target of cyber-attacks, more and more companies, governments, and nonprofits face significant risks. Business intelligence when conducted legally and ethically can protect more than the bottom-line.

Private Investigators specialize in business intelligence

Professional investigative teams have private investigators that can verify information, collect information about financial transactions, assets, investments, liabilities, and identify existing contracts, business practices, and even political associations. The information is then provided to the client providing a solid base for decision-making.

Business intelligence involves research, measurement, querying, analytics, data mining, performance management, reporting, identifying benchmarks, information sharing, and regulatory compliance. To implement effective business intelligence strategy, it is important to have skilled investigators to help your company obtain the needed information while conducting a legal, ethical, and discreet investigation.

According to Thomas Lauth, owner and lead private investigator at Lauth Investigations International, business intelligence has become a necessary component of business management worldwide. “From a negative media campaign to competing for a contract, knowing who your opposition is and their political and media affiliations, marketing and internet campaigns, and even motives will give you the competitive edge” says Lauth. “The old saying, it is better to be safe than sorry, rings true."

About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adults in 2000. Kym is considered an expert in the field of missing persons and has spent 20 years working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media. 

Michelle Knight, held captive since 2002, removed by police from FBI database 15 months after disappearance - Cleveland Plain Dealer Newspaper

What I uncovered sent shivers up my spine but worse, it is representative of a much larger national problem - the deficiencies that exist between  the way missing child and adult cases are handled. After verifying the information I had received, I was  forced to make a decision to do what I thought was right and notified the Cleveland Plain Dealer newspaper.

Michelle Knight prior to her 2002 disappearance

I was acting on a hunch and had no idea I would uncover a huge misstep in the investigation of the three Cleveland women. Michelle Knight, the oldest of the three Cleveland missing women who were all found safe last Monday, had been removed from the FBI National Crime Information Center database (NCIC) nearly 15 months after she vanished!

An error was made that could have gravely affected Knight's case early on. Rather than point fingers at the law enforcement agency that is understaffed, under-trained, and underfunded, I say this error falls upon each member of Congress and their failure to appropriate enough funding for law enforcement agencies throughout the country to carry out the functions of investigating missing person cases properly. Law enforcement throughout this country desperately needs quality training so mistakes are kept to a minimum, and most importantly a legislative mandate requiring a unified response to missing adults cases with every single case entered into the FBI NCIC as required for children. 

Congress funds efforts to find missing children in excess of $30 million annually! Not to mention organizations like NAMUS, Project Jason, Black & Missing, and the Cue Center to name a few, who desperately need funding so they may assist to meet the ever-increasing need for advocacy assistance. If you see a system for children works, model it, fund it, and  implement it for adults.

Congress,this is one mistake that can only be undone by each and every one of you putting yourself into the shoes of Michelle Knight's mother who searched for her daughter and distributed fliers ALONE - along with every missing person Michelle Knight represents. 

One more thing to those up on the Hill, after 15 years of listening to me plead and warn we are fighting a losing battle without your congressional support - PLEASE, DO THE RIGHT THING! 

Here is the Plains Dealer Newspaper article that explains what we discovered today. 

Michelle Knight, held captive since 2002, removed by police from FBI database 15 months after disappearance
http://www.cleveland.com/metro/index.ssf/2013/05/michelle_knight_held_captive_f.html

A special thank you to Cleveland Plain Dealer reporter Leila Atassi who took my call today and ran with it! Doing the right thing should be as easy for everyone as it was for her!

Robert K. Ressler - A Legend to those who fight monsters

Robert K. Ressler

Robert K. Ressler (02/15/37 - 05/05/13)

A former FBI Agent and Criminologist, Ressler is considered the granddad of "criminal profiling" at the Behavioral Sciences Unit at the Bureau and developed many of the programs that led to the creation of the FBI's National Center for the Analysis of Violent Crime. His contributions to this field have been numerous and immeasurable. 

~A hero, a mentor, and a Man who fought Monsters. ~ I devoured his books when I was younger and grew up to fight monsters too. My inspiration. Robert will be missed.

For additional information http://news.fredericksburg.com/justiceforum/2013/05/07/former-fbi-profiler-robert-k-ressler-has-died/

Arizona Woman Speaks About Road to Recovery

Though we can only speculate what the three Cleveland women and 6 year old child endured over an unimaginable ten year period of captivity, hopefully they will not continue to endure the scrutiny of people asking, "Why didn't they take an opportunity to escape?" It is difficult to understand the psychological and long-lasting impact of trauma. I hope I provide some insight as to what victims endure in this News 12 interview with Oralia Ortega. Instead of the public scrutinizing and questioning why they didn't escape sooner, what is important now, is embracing their safe return and recovery. ♥

ABC affiliate WJRW News-Talk Radio Interview about the disappearance of Michigan resident Jessica Heeringa

I would like to thank Mitch McCoy and ABC affiliate WRJW Newstalk Radio in Michigan for inviting me to talk about the disappearance of Jessica Heeringa, and especially for the time you have dedicated to bringing the details of this case to the public. This is how lives are saved! Thanks again!

(Grand Rapids) -- 1340 WJRW spoke with an expert Monday night during 1340 News LIVE AT FIVE about how police investigate missing person cases.

Kym L. Pasqualini spoke to 1340 WJRW's Mitch McCoy. Pasqualini is the Founder of National Center for Missing Adults.

Click here to listen.

Dangers of Online Dating - How to Protect Yourself

Article originally contributed to Lauth Investigations International


The day after Valentine’s Day of 2013, national news reports indicated a spike in new online dating memberships. Once somewhat frowned upon, looking for love online has become more socially acceptable within the last ten years.

Ann Friedman, a politics columnist for New York’s website, reported in her article Cupid’s Cursor, that one-third of America’s 90 million singles have used online dating services. While some find love, get married, living happily ever after, some have met with tragedy.



2011 Disappearance of Robyn Gardner Remain Mystery

Maryland resident, Robyn Gardner, who I wrote about August 25, 2011 in an article on Missing Persons Advocacy Network, remains missing after meeting Gary V. Giordano, 50, online. Robyn, 35, had met Gary Giordano on an online dating site, and developed a friendship prior to her disappearance on August 2, 2011.

Robyn Gardner remains missing.

Robyn considered Giordano a friend and even her close friends knew Giordano as an acquaintance of Robyn's.  Robyn accepted an invitations to Aruba where she vanished. Her family is still desperately searching for answers. After her disappearance, Giordano attempted to sue American Express for a $3.5 million insurance policy he took our on Robyn prior to their trip to Aruba.

Gary Giordano arrest photo.

Robyn Gardner is just one of many people who have fell victim to an online predator. November 30, 2012, Michigan law enforcement announced the body of Leigh Swanson had been found in the woods, approximately 10 miles northwest of Midland. Her cause of death was a fatal gunshot.

 

Tragedy Hits Home in Central Michigan

Leigh Swanson met her killer online.

Swanson, 45 years old, had met a man on an online dating site according to her mother, Beverly Kane. Kane said her daughter had expressed that she had a bad feeling prior to going on the date but made a call to her mother on November 18, 2012 from the man’s home indicating everything was fine and she would be home soon. She never arrived and no one knew whom she had gone on the date with.

After Swanson was reported missing, authorities traced the call to a house in Edenville Township, and dispatched deputies to the location. When the deputies approached the front door, they heard a gunshot from inside and ordered anyone inside to come out with their hands over their heads. A man exited the home holding a cell phone in his hand. The man had been on the phone with 911 reporting his son had just shot himself. A search ensued, and police found Swanson’s body in a wooded area on a neighboring property.

While the positive stories about online dating far outnumber the bad, the harsh reality is that online dating can also put people at risk. Following are some tips that can help keep you safe. Remember you can never take too much precaution when it comes to your personal safety.

Protect Yourself

• Always meet in a public place. Never invite the individual to pick you up from your home or accept an invitation to theirs.

• Use the online dating site email system to communicate. Remember, the more information you give out the easier you are to find. Even providing a private email address gives someone enough information to find out who you are and where you live.

• If you decide to meet personally, attempt to obtain as much verifiable information about the person prior to the meeting, such as name and phone number.

• Make sure you let someone close to you know who you are meeting, where you are meeting, and as much information about the person as possible. You can even have your friend call you during the date. This gives your friends and family peace of mind but also sends a clear message to the individual you are with that others know where you are.

• Do your homework. It is not unreasonable to conduct a background investigation on a potential mate and could lessen the danger to yourself and those you love.

• No matter how comfortable you feel with the person, never leave your food or drink unattended.

While I am not discouraging anyone from online dating, I do encourage you to take every precaution necessary to protect yourself. We must not permit tragedies or the lives of victims to be in vain.
About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adults in 2000. Kym is considered an expert in the field of missing persons and has spent 20 years working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media. 

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When Elderly Go Missing - How to Keep them Safe

When we think of the missing, we commonly think of missing children. Daily we see the faces of children who are reported missing and their photographs shared among thousands on the Internet. How often do we think of missing senior citizens?

Courtesy Denver News Channel 7 - Missing Senior

According to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), at the Federal Bureau of Investigation, as of January 31, 2013, there were 85,081 cases of missing persons in the United States. Of that number, there were 35,427 missing children cases ages 0-17 and 49,654 cases of missing persons ages 18-99. Lost within these statistics of missing persons are 12,066 cases of adults missing between the ages of 50-99. There are currently 7,890 individuals that are Unidentified, to include those found deceased or possibly hospitalized without identification.

When older adults go missing and reported to law enforcement, the majority face health related risks, and many suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. Keeping those suffering early stages of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can be a hard task. Like children, it only takes a minute before you realize they have wandered off. When seniors go missing, it can quickly turn into a high-risk situation. They not only become vulnerable to become crime victims, they face quickly succumbing to the elements. During winter when temperatures can be below zero in some areas of the country, during summer temperatures can reach extreme highs. Becoming a victim of exposure can happen very quickly.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, we can take preventive measures to help keep our loved ones safe. First, we recommended to enroll your loved one MedicAlert and Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return programs.

 1. Have a routine can provide structure when carrying out daily activities. Creating a Daily Plan can be very helpful. The Alzheimer’s Association offers online assistance by visiting Creating a Daily Plan.

 2. Try to identify the times of day your loved one may have a tendency to become restless, agitated, or experience anxiety. Plan activities and exercise during these times.

 3. Avoid busy places that could cause confusion and never leave your loved one unattended.

 4. Place exterior door locks out of the line of sight. You can place side-bolts at the top or bottom of the door.

 5. You can camouflage doors and doorknobs by painting them the same color as the walls, or use childproof knobs.

 6. Install a security system that alerts you when a door or window is opened.

 7. Keep car keys in a secure place.

 8. Keep a list of people to call for help and do not hesitate to call 911 if you find your loved one has wandered.

 9. Keep a recent close-up photograph and all medical information available.

 10. Consider utilizing a GPS device that can quickly identify their location.

In addition, we recommend registering yourself and your loved one with Next of Kin Registry (NOKR). NOKR is the central repository for Emergency Contact Information in the United States and 87 other countries. NOKR has recently collaborated with Microsoft HealthVault and is a free service that stores emergency contact information and provides free decals to place on your driver license or identification card.

Enrolling ensures the emergency contact information for anyone of any age that may become the victim of an accident, missing, a natural disaster, or other emergency incident, is available to law enforcement to aide in reunification. For more information, please visit Next of Kin Registry.

About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adults in 2000. Kym is considered an expert in the field of missing persons and has spent 20 years working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media. 

Former inmate Rusty Coone's life is epitome of inspiration

Courtesy of Attika 7

Here is inspiration at its finest! Having worked with women inmates, I have seen first-hand their loss of hope, the fear of stigma, and the difficulty obtaining employment once released. The fact is the public is too quick to write off individuals who have made bad choices.

Rusty Coones is the lead guitar player for Attika 7, owner of Illusion Motorcycles, co-star Quinn on Sons of Anarchy and yes, a former inmate. Rusty epitomizes hope, accountability, and success. During this interview he is asked by Eric Salas of Rock Thiz Magazine, if he would change anything in his life . . . his answer was no. He explains that  incarceration gave him an opportunity to learn about himself and apply the lessons learned resulting from his actions and the consequences. His experience and personal story has provided him the opportunity to positively impact the lives of others and the result of his incarceration. With an incredible perspective on life, Rusty looks at his experience in prison as having been an opportunity.

Offering hope and a different perspective to inmates so they can turn their lives "right-side up"  is what my program Life Corrections is all about. It also takes the public changing their perception. Watch and really listen to what Rusty has to say and take the opportunity to change yours. You just might look at those most of society has written off in a different light. <3

My note to Obama

President Obama,

Bob Levinson served our government for 30 years. He has been held hostage in Iran for 2,149 days. His life can be saved. 

It is time to walk the talk. There is no room for hypocrisy in the leadership of this country. Remember this, you are our leader, and "No Man" should be left behind!

Sincerely, 

Kym L. Pasqualini

Founder, National Center for Missing Adults

Benefits of hiring Homegrown Private Eyes

Life can suddenly change and you may find yourself facing a divorce, child custody dispute, cheating spouse, civil or criminal litigation. When life takes a sudden turn, it helps to kick a plan into action as soon as possible. The need for a private investigator arises, when we face the need to collect information that will be pertinent to the outcome of a case or verify information provided. Information must be collected professionally, efficiently, and within the boundaries of state and federal law and requires hiring a licensed private investigator, also commonly referred to as a private detective, private eye or PI. When hiring a private investigator it pays to know whom you are hiring.

Most every state in the U.S. requires an individual to complete a background check and obtain a license to be a private investigator but, in the few states where licensing is not required by the state, anyone can become a private investigator. Working with an inexperienced investigator can create significant liability to a client. Considering this, it is very important for a person to do their homework when hiring an investigator so you get the quality services they are paying for.

Private investigators offer an array of specialized services from background investigations, surveillance, computer forensics, and process of legal service, missing person and homicide investigations, criminal defense investigations and many more, while others specialize in a specific service. Regardless of the type of investigation, it is vital that an investigator be knowledgeable and compliant with state and federal laws that pertain to privacy, legal statutes in relation to medical and financial information, proper surveillance techniques, court procedure, and even victim’s rights.

A multitude of fee-based and free networks or associations are available on the Internet providing names of private investigators and private investigation agencies from state to state. These networks provide assistance in locating a private investigator specific to the service needed or in close proximity to the client, however these networks are not a regulatory agency, and many have no background information on the private investigator. While network services are beneficial and do simplify the search for a private investigator, sometimes network services can pose a problem when a client assumes they are hiring a reputable private investigator.  Many networks do not provide investigative services themselves and simply serve as an advertising service not liable for the actions or quality of services provided by those listed. Many networks are simply a marketing tool that only require the private investigator or firm to pay a monthly fee to be listed, and do not verify the private investigator’s “good-standing” with any state regulatory agency.
Due Diligence when hiring a local private investigator:

• Request a copy of licensing information and any associations the private investigator is a member.
• Request a specific list of services the investigator or agency provides.
• Contact your Better Business Bureau and state regulatory agency and inquire if there are any complaints on file.
• Ask if they subcontract work out to independent investigators.
• Request professional references from the investigator; references can include former clients, associates, and even law enforcement personnel.
• Ask to review investigative contracts and retainer agreements. Remember, a written contract protects both the client and the private investigator and identifies the terms of the agreement while minimizing misunderstandings and liability.

Hiring a local private investigator enables the client to have a “one on one” consultation in order to discuss the case, discuss work to be performed, review documents, and verify references. Another major benefit of hiring a local private investigator is the investigators knowledge of the area and critical to conducting an effective investigation.

Having connections is an absolute benefit to any investigation. Knowing the neighborhood, local companies, business owners, residents, and “those in the know” cannot be overstated. Obtaining information from a “trusted source” and gathering information in a discreet manner is more dependable if the investigator is familiar with the demographic and geographic makeup of the area. In addition, it is an assurance a client will receive more personalized service.

Thomas Lauth is a 20-year veteran investigator and owner of Lauth Investigations International headquartered in Indianapolis, IN with additional offices in Colorado and Arizona. Lauth has and his team of investigators has provided investigative services that include skip traces, background checks, private and corporate investigations, criminal defense investigations for the state of Indianapolis, child abuse, sex trafficking, and even high profile missing person investigations.

According to Lauth, the benefits of hiring a “homegrown” private investigation firm are immeasurable. “Most investigations and preparation for litigation creates an emotional environment for those involved,” says Lauth. “As licensed private investigators, it important to be dedicated and it is our duty to represent our clients with the utmost integrity and moral conduct so as not to add to emotional injury.”

About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adults in 2000. Kym is considered an expert in the field of missing persons and has spent 20 years working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media. 

Disappearance of Flagstaff (AZ) teens could be spurred by Jack Kerouac novel

Lauth Investigations

For Immediate Release

Contact: Thomas Lauth 317-954-1100

or Kym Pasqualini at kympasqualini@gmail.com

November 4, 2012 -  Joshua “Josh” Kinsolving and Madison “Madi” Baker, both 16-years old, left their homes in  Flagstaff, Arizona,on September 14, 2012. Both were reported missing to Flagstaff Police Department and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.com. Madi has Type 1 diabetes and did not take her medication with her. Authorities are concerned for the teen’s safety and both classified as Endangered Runaways in the FBI National Crime Information Center (NCIC).

The last time friends saw Josh and Madi, they were at Wheeler Park with some homeless people on the evening of their disappearance. From there the trail goes cold. The friends say one of the individuals was a “drifter” who goes by the name Joker, or sometimes Jester. The pair had backpacks and indicated they were heading to Las Vegas, Nevada. They could have also traveled to the coastal towns of California, Oregon, or Washington.

It is not uncommon for teens to dream of adventure and many easily lured onto the streets where they are at high risk of victimization. The lure for Josh and Madi seems to be even stronger as Josh has a love for the author, Jean-Louis “Jack” Kerouac. Kerouac was a popular novelist, often credited as being one of the forefathers of the hippie movement. His books such as “On the Road” and the “Dhama Bums” tell of his experiences with drugs, the homeless, poverty, and travel. Since Kerouac’s death in 1969, his literary prestige has grown and Josh’s interest in the author’s lifestyle may have been a contributor to the teen’s apparent decision to hit the road. Kerouac travelled everywhere with his notebook documenting his road experiences and it appears Josh and Madi may have left to experience the world, much like the author who he idealized.

The problem, the road is a dangerous place. When faced with no food or shelter children become easy prey to those with the intent to exploit them. Though the national scope of child sex trafficking is still uncertain, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), reports at least 100,000 children in the United States are trafficked each year. According to the FBI National Crime Information Center (NCIC), approximately 797,500 children under the age of eighteen are reported missing annually, calculating to nearly 2,185 children reported missing each day.

“It is imperative we find these children before something tragic happens,” says Kym Pasqualini, founder of Nation’s Missing Children Organization and the National Center for Missing Adults. Pasqualini now serves as an advocate and national expert on missing persons cases. “When kids are alone on the street, they are at extremely high risk to become the victims of crime.” 

###

Madison "Madi" Baker

Madison “Madi” Alexandra Baker

Endangered Runaway

DOB: 03/07/1996  Age: 16

Sex: Female              Race: White

Height: 5’5”             Weight: 120lbs

Hair:  Dyed black    Eyes: Blue

Date Missing: 09/14/2012

Missing From: Flagstaff, AZ

Flagstaff Police Department 928.774.1414

Joshua "Josh" Kinsolving

Joshua “Josh” Drew Kinsolving

Endangered Runaway

DOB: 11/25/1995  Age: 16

Sex: Male                  Race: White

Height: 5’10”           Weight: 140lbs

Hair:  Brown                        Eyes: Brown

Date Missing: 09/14/2012

Missing From: Flagstaff, AZ

Flagstaff Police Department 928.774.1414

About the Author: Kym L. Pasqualini is founder of the Nation’s missing Children Organization in 1994 and the National Center for Missing Adults in 2000. Kym is considered an expert in the field of missing persons and has spent 20 years working with government officials, law enforcement, advocates, private investigators, and national media. 

Veteran victim advocate gives Arizona an "F" for assistance to crime victims

This is an Arizona crime victim's submission to Project Unbreakable (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YN_GQStLbM), a program to raise awareness for sexual assault victims so they can be heard.

The federal government and the State of Arizona is failing its crime victims! From the failure to get a family to safety despite recorded death threats, failure to acknowledge crime's impact on the family, failure to appoint a victim advocate, to failing to offer any services to help victims cope, rebuild, and heal in the aftermath.

This is just one family out of thousands. When they have already lost every sense of security and feel hopeless, the final crime . . . when SSA tells a parent they can't issue Emergency Presumptive Assistance as noted on their website at www.ssa.gov unless the parent can bring the child in and they can "visually" see the impairment, like Down's Syndrome. First, emergency assistance would not be needed if they didn't drag their feet 3-5 months reviewing medical records.

For anyone who doesn't understand trauma - please see the attached as it is self explanatory! Didn't anyone tell them YOU CAN'T SEE PTSD! This is why we lose more US veterans annually to PTSD than we do on all our battlefields combined (they have no statistics of casualties of PTSD caused by sexual assault and survivors of child sexual abuse). How many more casualties do we need to offer help to those suffering from an "invisible" but debilitating injury?

To the US Government and the State of Arizona - these are lives you are NOT saving!

Help Me Save the Life of Terrance Williams - Read My Personal Story

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is preparing to execute Terrance “Terry” Williams on October 3, 2012, in spite of staunch opposition to his execution from the victim’s widow, five jurors from trial, child advocates, former prosecutors and judges, faith leaders, mental health professionals, law professors and others.

I urgently appeal to Governor Tom Corbett, the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons, and District Attorney Seth Williams to spare Terrance Williams’ life and allow him to be sentenced to life without parole.

Terrance Williams, victim of child sexual abuse
scheduled for execution on October 3, 2012.

Throughout his childhood, Terry suffered prolonged violent physical and sexual abuse from older males. Born into poverty with a violently abusive mother and absent father, Terry faced abuse and neglect in his home that made him vulnerable to sexual predators. He was first raped by an older boy when he was only six years old, and he continued to suffer sexual abuse for the next twelve years.  Like too many other victims of child sexual abuse, Terry received no counseling or support to help him deal with the repeated traumas he endured; in fact, some of the people who were supposed to help Terry preyed on him.

As a teenager, Terry became acquainted with two middle-aged men who used their influence as a church leader and as a sports booster to get access to young boys. These men sexually abused and brutally exploited Terry. After years of suffering unimaginable horrors, when he was 17- and 18-years old, Terry killed these two men – and now faces death.

Terry’s tragic history of abuse was never presented at trial. Because of this, several jurors who sentenced him to death now support commuting his sentence to life without parole. At the time of trial, Terry was traumatized and ashamed of the violence he suffered, and his lawyer did not investigate obvious signs of abuse. The jury thus did not hear any evidence about the relentless abuse Terry faced, nor did they know that the two men he killed were in fact his abusers.

Jurors have stated that that if they had known all the facts about Terry's background and his abuse by the men he killed, they would not have voted for death.

The widow of the man whose killing resulted in Terry’s death sentence has forgiven Terry and does not want him to be executed.  She has found peace and closure and does not wish to see any more loss of life. The victim’s widow has expressed herhope that Governor Corbett, the Board of Pardons, and District Attorney Williams will show Terry mercy.

In addition to the victim’s widow and jurors, there has been an unprecedented outpouring of support from prominent groups and individuals across Pennsylvania. Child advocates, former prosecutors and judges, faith leaders, mental health professionals, law professors and others have publicly supported commuting Terry’s sentence to life without parole.

Terry is deeply remorseful for his actions and prays that the families of the men he killed can find peace.

You can read more about Terry's case, including the numerous letters in support of clemency, here: www.TerryWilliamsClemency.com

I join in asking Governor Corbett, the Board of Pardons, and District Attorney Williams to spare Terrance Williams’ life. 

by Sue Osthoff

Philadelphia, PA

Why I Need Your Help - My Personal Story

By Kym L. Pasqualini

Please read my personal story and letter to PA Governor Corbett, PA Board of Pardons, and District Attorney Williams asking to spare Terrance Williams life.

Governor Tom Corbett, PA Board of Pardons, District Attorney Seth Williams – please do not disregard my plea and personal story.

Kym L. Pasqualini - Age 9.
A month before my life changed forever.

I have served this country as a victim advocate for nearly twenty years as founder and former CEO of the Nation's Missing Children Organization (1994-2010) and the National Center for Missing Adults (2000-2010).

There is a reason I became an outspoken advocate for victims of crime  . . . because there was no one to advocate for me.  I am an adult survivor of child sexual abuse. I survived by turning my pain into a passion to help others but this was after years of suffering, suicide attempts, drug abuse, violence toward others, and crime.

I suffered years of horrific physical and sexual abuse by a man who was released from prison in 1973 after only serving 3.5 years on an original 1st degree homicide charge for killing his 5yr old son. His sentence reduced to involuntary manslaughter, deemed mentally ill and could not stand trial. When he walked free, my younger brother’s lives and mine were forever altered.

As a teen and young adult, I had fallen into a cycle of self-abuse and it was not until I stood in front of Superior Court Judge Nastro in shackles for a possession charge that my life was saved. Someone in authority had finally acknowledged my pain and told me I had value. My value had been raped from me beginning at age 9 but hearing Judge Nastro’s voice that day, for the first time in my young life I felt I had worth and empowered to change my life. Judge Nastro challenged me to direct my pain into something positive and gave me the opportunity to touch other lives. I am certain Terrance never had that chance. I have spent years in cognitive therapies, EMDR treatment for Complex PTSD, and still suffer.  Had I not had intervention, I am certain I would not be alive today or I would be in prison.  I did turn my pain into something positive and the agency I founded was funded $1 mil annually by US Dept. of Justice so I could turn a personal tragedy into something to help others. In fact, Governor Corbett, I have a signed recognition and proclamation acknowledging my work in PA - it is signed by you.

I can attest to the fact that most victims of child sexual abuse do not come forward due to fear and shame - forced to live a life with a murdered soul and loss of innocence. My story is a perfect example of repeated failures in the criminal justice system as I first reported in 1979. The man who abused me is still out there and I am certain there have been more victims. For me, I have struggled through life haunted by this man who continues to harass me as recently as 2010. Have I thought of taking justice into my own hands? I would be lying if I said I had not because child sexual predators never stop!

Though I do not condone murder, I beg you to take into consideration that what Terry did should really be considered a form of self-defense,  as he was preyed upon.  Those of us who suffer from PTSD are consistently in "fight or flight" mode as a protective mechanism and suffer sometimes debilitating psychological and physiological effects.  A Montreal Study on brains of suicide victims who had been victims of child sexual abuse proved the trauma caused genetic changes in the brain.  I would be happy to share additional and astounding studies reflecting how trauma causes permanent changes and physical scarring of the brain. The years of abuse Terrance suffered should not be dismissed and clearly a contributor for entering the fight or flight mode and committing an act so he would no longer feel threatened by the abuser. The pain inflicted on victims does not go away once we are adults, if anything it becomes increasingly more difficult to cope as we age facing a proven brain injury that affects every aspect of our lives, including early mortality.

I beg for Terrance's life and for all of you to take into consideration the pain and suffering Terrance endured. Believe me when I say, living the aftermath of child sexual abuse knowing the perpetrator is still out there and experiencing constant inner turmoil that does not dissipate is a life sentence. In addition, knowing a predator is still out there potentially harming other children can cause a victim to feel hopeless or feel they must do everything in their power to save other victims.

I have assisted thousands of families of missing persons and worked closely with local, state, and federal law enforcement. I also founded a program called Life Corrections and have gone on to speak to women inmates sharing my personal story to help other’s overcome adversity and stop cycles of abuse. This is your opportunity to save a life that in return can help save other lives.

Senator Dick Durbin, Kym L. Pasqualini, Shelia Vojack,
and President Obama - 2005
What if I had not been given a chance?

To execute Terrance Williams would be an injustice as child predators, and in my case, child murderers receive less time than drug traffickers and released to continue preying on other victims.

I pray that each of you search your heart and exercise compassion. Terrance has the potential to help others by sharing his story, he has the potential to help others find the courage to report child sexual abuse, he has the potential to touch other's lives granted the opportunity and you hold his life in your hands. 

For one moment think of the helplessness one feels when they are the victim of rape. I know because I have lived it but I also know the system is still broken because my own child was a victim of rape. The adult predators still walking the street while I must watch my own child suffer from this life-altering experience. I urge you to focus on combating the perpetrators, improve the system, and prevent victims from feeling they have no options.

Again, I beg you not to take the life of a man who felt hopeless, felt he had no way out, and made a momentary decision he will regret for his lifetime. Child sexual abuse is one of the most horrific experiences one can endure and in essence a life sentence. Incarceration for taking the life of a predator is punishment Terrance accepts but taking his life is removing any chance of helping other victims not make the same decision and it also removes the ability to empower victims to report crimes. I urge you to please search your hearts and pardon Terrance Williams.

Respectfully,

Kym L. Pasqualini

Sign the petition on Change.org asking Governor Tom Corbett of Pennsylvania to stop Terry's execution scheduled on October 3 -- click here to add your name.

Pay It Forward - KPHO News 5

We may never know the impact we have in lives of others . . . likewise many we meet throughout our lives may never know how significantly they impact ours. Even through the tragedy of murder we can find hidden blessings through connections of the human spirit. 

Composite of individual and truck Diana Shawcroft and Jennifer Lueth
were seen getting into in  Glendale, AZ

I have forever been touched by Ashley Rojo and the entire Shawcroft family and grateful to KPHO News 5 for telling our stories. Forever in memory - my best friend Kathy Shawcroft (Ashley's grandmother) and Diana Shawcroft (Ashley's Aunt). ♥

Let's not forget that someone out there knows what happened to Diana and Jenny and coming forward with information can provide this family with answers and peace. Pay It forward PLEASE.

CBS 5 - KPHO