http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti.../607140303/1008

Family marks 5 years after disappearance
PALLADIUM-ITEM


Niqui McCown's family and friends will mark the fifth anniversary of her disappearance with a celebration of life.

The event is set for 6 to 9:30 p.m. July 22 at the Boys and Girls Club, 1717 S. L St.


McCown vanished on July 22, 2001, from a coin-operated laundry at 1100 S. E St. It was a Sunday. She was to have been married two weeks later.

Despite an intensive investigation here and in Dayton, Ohio, no trace of McCown was ever found. Her car, which went missing when she did, was found months later in a Dayton apartment building parking lot, but it yielded no clues.

McCown was 28 when she disappeared. She left behind a daughter who was 8 then.

McCown's entire name is Marilyn Renee Nicole McCown, but in her childhood Nicole got shortened to Niqui by young siblings who had trouble with the pronunciation. Now Niqui has become the shorthand for Richmond's most high profile unsolved missing person case.

The celebration of life for Niqui will include speakers from the Midwest Coalition for the Missing and the family and friends of other missing persons.

There will be food and singing ad activities for children.



Originally published July 14, 2006

http://www.theyaremissed.org/ncma/gallery/...php?A200300824W




Name: Marilyn Renee McCown

Classification: Endangered Missing Adult
Alias / Nickname: Niqui
Date of Birth: 1973-01-06
Date Missing: 2001-07-22
From City/State: Richmond, IN
Age at Time of Disappearance: 28
Gender: Female
Race: Black
Height: 62 inches
Weight: 115 pounds
Hair Color: Lt. Brown
Eye Color: Brown
Complexion: Light
Identifying Characteristics: Small scar on right side of face, small scar over left eye.
Clothing: Hot pink and purple flowered swim suit top, dark colored shorts.
Jewelry: White gold bracelet, diamond earrings.
Circumstances of Disappearance: Unknown. Marilyn, who goes by Niqui, was last seen at a laundromat in the vicinity of the 1000 block of South E St. Her vehicle was located on November 3, 2001 in an apartment complex in Dayton, OH with the stereo and battery missing, the door lock being knocked in, the ignition switch tampered with, and her laundry still folded inside.
Investigative Agency: Richmond Police Department
Phone: (765) 983-7247
Investigative Case #: 2001-215798

http://www.unsolved.com/0238-McCown.html



Synopsis of the Unsolved Mysteries case broadcast on September 19, 2002

When on July 22nd, 2001, a sweltering day in Richmond, Indiana, 28-year-old Niqui McCown walked into her mother’s house, it wasn’t only the weather that had her hot under the collar. Niqui told her mom that two guys were harassing her at the laundromat where she'd been doing her laundry.

It is believed by authorities that Niqui McCown returned to the laundromat a short time later, but no one knows for sure. Niqui mysteriously disappeared that day. She has not been seen or heard from since. Police suspect foul play.

Niqui McCown was friendly, had no known enemies and looked forward to her upcoming wedding in just 3 weeks. Detectives are left with a complex puzzle and a bunch of pieces that simply didn’t fit.

Sunday July 22, 2001 began routinely enough. After attending church, Niqui set off to do the laundry while her fiancé, Bobby Webster, met the ‘best man’ in his wedding at a local tuxedo shop. Bobby and Niqui had plans to get together later that afternoon.

Niqui had a 9-year-old daughter from a prior relationship, and even her ex-boyfriend seemed happy for her. The youngest of 10 children in a close-knit family, Niqui had always been a perfectionist and she had planned to make her special day as special as possible for everyone. No one know what happened to Niqui that summer day in 2001. Did she return to the laundromat where she was confronted by two strangers up to no good? And why did those close to Niqui find no trace of her anywhere?

The day after Niqui’s disappearance, Monday July 23rd, her fiancé contacted the Richmond police department. Over the next week, detectives looked into the alleged incident at the laundromat and the possibility that Niqui had been abducted. They also had questions for her fiancé, Bobby Webster. According to police, Bobby had begun acting very strangely in the days immediately following Niqui’s disappearance. Instead of postponing the wedding, he cancelled it entirely and demanded a full refund from the reception hall. He then tried to return his wedding band – also for cash – but the manager refused. Niqui had paid for the ring and her name was on the receipt. An argument ensued and, allegedly, nearly turned violent. Bobby had to be escorted from the store. Bobby said he needed the money to help find Niqui – to pay for flyers and a cell phone. Detectives asked Bobby to take a polygraph test. He refused at first, but later agreed to the test.

More than three months passed with still no sign of Niqui McCown. Then, on November 5th, 2001, detectives caught a break when Niqui’s SUV was found parked at a sprawling apartment complex in Dayton, Ohio 45 minutes east of her home in Indiana. It had apparently been abandoned for some time. Police found a punched out door lock, an ignition that had been tampered with, and a missing stereo system. Unfortunately, locating the SUV raised more questions than it answered. Police found no fingerprints or other promising leads that might help them find Niqui. However, they did make one important discovery: her laundry. The clothes looked like they had come just from the Laundromat and were folded neatly. That seemed to rule out the abduction theory. If Niqui had been forcibly removed from the Laundromat, why would her clothes be in the back of the SUV?

Detectives wanted to know: Who drove the vehicle from Richmond to Dayton? And why? Detectives canvassed the area and soon found that Niqui’s ex-boyfriend lived in another part of the large apartment complex where the SUV was found. Police talked to the father of her child and verified that he was at work at the time that she was reported missing. Police eliminated him as a suspect. However, investigators discovered that Niqui made a phone call to Dayton the day she disappeared – to a co-worker who lived about a mile from where the SUV was found. They talked about some specialty hair and nail products and Niqui was told she could purchase the items at a store in Dayton.

There was also a third possible scenario: if Niqui did drive to Dayton that Sunday afternoon, perhaps something tragic happened on the way. But how did her SUV end up in the parking lot of her ex-boyfriend’s apartment complex? Was it simply an unbelievable coincidence? Some believe that it could have been placed there to throw off suspicion. That theory led Detectives right back to Bobby Webster – and his suspicious behavior following Niqui’s disappearance. Niqui’s sister believes Bobby is innocent of any wrongdoing. Niqui’s mother isn’t so sure. Police continue to follow up on other possible suspects while also keeping a close eye on Bobby Webster.

Niqui McCown’s fate remains a mystery. Friends say she adored her daughter and would never have run off by herself. Some continue to speculate that her fiancé had something to do with her disappearance. But what motive did he have? And what about Niqui’s ex-boyfriend? He cooperated fully and passed a polygraph test. Could it have been a random act of violence? If that was the case, why was Niqui’s vehicle found abandoned at the apartment complex in Dayton? Perplexing questions – without any good answers.

If you have any information about the disappearance of Marilyn ‘Niqui’ McCown, please contact the Richmond (Indiana) Police Department, or call the Unsolved Mysteries hotline, 1-800-876-5353.

Mother still retains hope for life of missing daughter


A new year has begun -- another new beginning, another day of love, hope and faith. Last July we celebrated Niqui's life, even though Detective Redmond advises us of Niqui's demise. We have seen no proof and after the capture and release of two kidnapped teens, my hope is boundless. Two and a half years ago I was in a deep concentration about Niqui. I spoke and prayed endlessly to God. While contemplating, a thought came in to my mind -- love, hope and faith. This has been my calling card. Numerous times it has covered and protected and then last March while conferring with God, he showed me why: for the love of Niqui, hope of a father and faith of a mother -- three words that mean everything in my existence now.

Love represents God for he is love. Hope represents Jesus, for if God is the father then Jesus Christ can be our only hope. And faith is the Holy Ghost, for where I go you cannot follow but I will send you a comforter. Mary covered herself with it daily and this mother does the same. Many letters and phone calls later I feel I must answer, so I turn to the media, as I could not possibly recall all of your names.


Chew it and let it become honey in your mouth. Believe me, it will. Continue with your prayers. Where two or more come together, he is there too.

Justice for Niqui -- or is it "just us"?

Barbara McCown, Richmond

McCown's daughter, Marilyn "Niqui" McCown, has been missing since July 22, 2001
http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti...331/1003/NEWS03

Family, friends mark missing woman's birthday with vigil

Niqui McCown's relatives read poem, reflect on overcoming bitterness
By Rachel E. Sheeley
Staff writer

Payton Johnston organized a get-together in a coin-operated laundry to mark the 33rd birthday of her mother, Marilyn Renee "Niqui" McCown.

The 13-year-old chose the Corner Laundry, formerly the Richmond Coin Laundry, in the 1000 block of South E Street because it was the last place her mother was seen before she disappeared on July 22, 2001.

A small group of family members, friends and strangers met to light candles, say prayers, express their feelings and to sing "Happy Birthday" to McCown.

"I thought it was good," Payton said. "I wanted everyone to come out and have a moment of silence on her birthday."

Payton read a poem in which she asks, "Why, why was it you? Why did they take you?... Why don't I have a mom? ... Why can't I just go back in time to that Sunday and save you? Why you, why?"

The family often celebrates McCown's birthday by themselves, but this year Payton wanted to make a special effort to keep her mother's story in the media.

Crews from two Dayton television stations were present and an episode of "Unsolved Mysteries" that shares McCown's story had been repeated recently.

As white and dark purple candles burned, McCown's sister, Terrilyn Jett, talked about how her life has changed since McCown disappeared in 2001.

"It's just like we woke up out of a bad dream. Thank God that I have a peace now. I may not have my sister, but I have peace," Jett said. "He knows the answers and he's going to give us the answers.

"Four years ago, we were really bitter. I was the bitterest.

I wanted to seek out revenge. God's given me peace. It's a beautiful thing," she said.

The group clasped hands to pray for McCown.

"All we ask for right now is closure," prayed family friend Cairo Hardin. "...Let Niqui's name not be forgotten."

"We miss you Niqui and love you," said McCown's sister, Tamie Hughes.

"We don't have closure, but we are able to forgive," Jett said. "...If there is someone and they know something, our family, we forgive you."

Valerie Taylor of Richmond doesn't know McCown's family, but she came to the vigil.

"I bless you," Taylor said.

As she talked with Jett about the comfort Jett has found in faith, Taylor said that through her disappearance, McCown "has reached people to reach God...

"Look how many people have been touched and turned to God."

"It's through God that we're strengthened each day," Jett said. "It gets easier and easier. We're able to reach out and help others."

She said the family, especially Payton, has been able to share its experiences and support with other families who have a missing member.

Payton's aunts admire her strength.

"She's our rock," Hughes said.

Reporter Rachel E. Sheeley: (765) 973-4458 or rsheeley@pal-item.com


Originally published January 7, 2006

Laundry Mat Vigil for Missing Woman

Dated: 01/06/2006 09:55:39 PM

Niqui McCown's family holds a somber ceremony to mark her 33rd birthday.

Friday, family and friends gathered at the Richmond laundry mat where Niqui disappeared back in 2001. Her young daughter, Payton, lit a candle in her mom's memory by dryer number 15, the one Niqui would always use.

Loved ones say it's hard honoring Niqui's birthday year after year. But, they will continue to keep her memory alive, hopeful that she will one day come home. Niqui's mother, Barbara McCown said, "I made a promise to my husband I'd see this through."

Niqui's car was found in Dayton shortly after her disappearance, but that's the only clue investigators have. However, police do remain active in the case.

Family Still Hopes For Niqui´s Return

Dated: 01/06/2006 10:55:21 AM Updated: 01/06/2006 04:08:09 PM

It's been more than four years since Niqui McCown was last seen at a Richmond laundromat.

Today holds special meaning for her family for it is Niqui McCown's 33rd birthday. A day her family wishes they could spend with her, but instead they are still doing what they can to bring her home. Niqui was last seen in 2001.

According to her sister, she stopped by her mother's house and told her some guys were giving her a hard time at the laundromat. She then went back to that laundromat to get her belongings and never returned.

Her family believes she was taken against her will. Her car was found later in Dayton. Her family is hanging on to hope that someone will come forward.

They last spoke to 2News back in the summer of 2005.

"I'm really angry at the system at the whole structure of justice. We don't want no money. We don't want any of that. All's we want is Niqui back," is what Niqui's mother Barbara McCown said then.

Niqui's family will hold a vigil in her honor Friday evening at the laundry mat where she was last seen on South East Street in Richmond. That will take place at 7:30 p.m.

http://www.whiotv.com/news/5909924/detail.html

Vigil Held For Woman Who Disappeared 5 Years Ago

POSTED: 12:36 pm EST January 7, 2006
UPDATED: 1:06 pm EST January 7, 2006

RICHMOND, Indiana -- Niqui McCown, who disappeared five years ago, was remembered Friday night at a candlelight vigil n what was her 33rd birthday.

The vigil took place at a Laundromat in Richmond, Ind. That is where her family last saw her.

Authorities said McCown car was found in Harrison Township at an apartment complex. She reportedly knew a man who lived there, but he said he never saw her.

Rinokids.com

Missing Adult: Marilyn Niqui McCown

Marilyn Niqui McCown was last seen at a Laundromat in the area of the 1000 block of South E Street in Richmond Indiana. While her clothes were either washing or drying, she went to her mother's house and voiced concerns about a group of Hispanic boys who had been harassing her at the Laundromat.

She was reluctant, but returned to the Laundromat. She was last seen loading clothes into the back of her 1990 Jimmy 4X4 at around 2:45 in the afternoon. The GMC Jimmy with OH License Plate # CNC6753 was located abandoned on 03-NOV-2001 in the Meadow of Catalpa apartment complex. The stereo and battery to her vehicle were missing, and her door lock was knocked in. However, her laundry was found still folded inside the back of the vehicle.

The police had questions for her fiancé, Bobby Webster. According to police, Bobby had begun acting very strangely in the days immediately following Marilyn’s disappearance. Instead of postponing the wedding, he cancelled it entirely, demanding a full refund from the reception hall. Bobby then tried to return his wedding band – also for cash – but the manager refused. Niqui had paid for the ring and her name was on the receipt. An argument ensued and, allegedly, nearly turned violent. Bobby had to be escorted from the store. Bobby said he needed the money to help find Niqui – to pay for flyers and a cell phone. Detectives asked Bobby to take a polygraph test. He refused at first, but later agreed to the test.

If Marilyn did drive to Dayton that Sunday afternoon, perhaps something tragic happened on the way. But how did her GMC Jimmy end up in the parking lot of her ex-boyfriend’s apartment complex? Was it simply an unbelievable coincidence? Some believe that it could have been placed there to throw off suspicion. That theory led Detectives right back to Bobby Webster – and his suspicious behavior following Marilyn’s disappearance. Police continue to follow up on other possible suspects while also keeping a close eye on Bobby Webster.

Contact Information

Richmond Police Department 765-983-7247
Unsolved Mysteries 800-876-5353

http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dl...507230302/1008

A march for Niqui
Family, community remember woman's 2001 disappearance

By Rebecca Helmes
Staff writer

In the four years that her mother has been missing, Payton Johnston was content to let other family members as well as friends speak on behalf of Marilyn Renee "Niqui" McCown.

But on Friday, which marked another anniversary since Niqui's disappearance, the 13-year-old addressed the crowd. She finally wanted to speak her mind.

She told parents to kiss their children each day before they go to sleep because they never know which kiss will be their last. She doesn't want them to end up like her, spending years missing a loved one.

"For four years, I haven't had a mother," Payton said.

Niqui McCown hasn't been seen by her family and loved ones since she disappeared from a coin-operated laundry at 1100 S. E St. on July 22, 2001.Her family and friends are as passionate about the cause as ever. Terrilyn Jett, Niqui's sister, said the march was about something bigger -- stopping violence in neighborhoods and bringing communities back together.

"We're still very much hopeful," Jett said. "It's been really tough."

As 60 or so people marched from the 600 block of South 10th Street, near where Niqui was last seen, to the Richmond Municipal Building, they carried signs and shouted statements condemning domestic violence.

"Something happened to her, somebody knows, they never came forth for whatever reason," Michelle McCown said, also Niqui's sister. She said determination, love and respect for all of the Niquis in the world is what keeps them vigilant about trying to find missing people.

"We're basically their voices, and they need to be heard," Michelle McCown said.

Dominique Hampton, Niqui's nephew, said "a bunch of broken hearts" is what he thinks of when he thinks of Niqui.

As Niqui's mother Barbara McCown spoke at the podium, surrounded by her daughters and granddaughter, she expressed hope that Niqui will be found but expressed frustration at the results the investigation has turned up so far.

The attention given to the "Runaway Bride" on the national news earlier this year made her especially upset.

"It seems that if you don't come from the elite you don't matter," Barbara McCown said.

The McCowns have spoken with local and regional news media and have also taken Niqui's story on shows such as Unsolved Mysteries and The Montel Williams Show.

Unfortunately, Niqui shares her missing status with more than 100,000 other Americans. According to Nation's Missing Children's Organization and the National Center for Missing Adults, about 55,000 of those cases are juveniles.

In Richmond though, Niqui's case is the highest profile missing person investigation of late. Richmond Police Sgt. Brad Berner said since the beginning of the year, 89 people have been reported missing to the department. Most of those turned out to be runaways or people who returned or made themselves known after a short period of time.

Berner even said Gerald Leroy Goble, also known as Chop Chop by many people, has been reported seen often enough for police to now believe he's around the community somewhere. Goble has been reported missing since mid-2003.

Besides McCown, only one other missing person case remains open in Richmond. Carl Holland was 23 when he was reported missing in June 1983. Police suspected foul play, and even dug up some area wells in search of evidence. They never turned up enough information to locate Holland.

Mayor Sally Hutton, who attended the Friday march, said she has met with the McCown family a few times and admires their faith and tenacity to solve the case.

"They want closure and I think that's only fair for them," Hutton said. "We can only hope and pray that it will happen sooner rather than later."

Barbara McCown said all the family wants is justice for Niqui and other missing people.

"Four years ago, something was taken from me," Barbara McCown said. "No mother should have to feel this."

Reporter Rebecca Helmes: (765) 973-4478 or rhelmes@richmond. gannett.com


Originally published July 23, 2005

http://www.wdtn.com/dsp_story.cfm?storyid=...uestTimeout=500

Family of Missing Woman Begs for Help

Dated: 07/23/2006 12:00:00 AM

Niqui McCown's strange disappearance is a mystery that haunts her family and breaks the hearts of those who loved the young woman.

On Saturday, the McCown family and the Midwest Coalition for the Missing marked the fifth year since Niqui vanished.

Supporters held a memorial celebration of Niqui's life, but her mother Barbara says it has been difficult.

"Each day has become more tolerable ...but only to a point," she tells 2 News.

It was July 22, 2001, when Niqui McCown was last seen at the coin-operated laundromat in Richmond, Indiana. The 28-year-old mother was supposed to be married in 2 weeks. She also had an 8-year-old daughter who was devastated.

Months later, police found Niqui's car at a Dayton apartment building parking lot, but there were no clues.

Despite intensive investigation, no trace of McCown has ever been found.

Niqui's sister, Michelle McCown-Luster says that it's only recently that she's been able to come to terms with her loss.

"I realize that yeah, my sister's still missing but through me her memory will continue and continue," McCown-Luster says.

The family is still searching for answers, and Niqui's mother has a message for the community.

"Just imagine this was your child. Put yourself into my place. Just give us our baby. All we want is Niqui. We don't ask for vengeance. All we want is Niqui."

Posted by J. Katsuyama

http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti.../607230305/1008

5 years later: Still hoping, praying Daughter of Niqui finds joy in celebration
Family, friends of missing woman gather, celebrate

BY RACHEL E. SHEELEY
STAFF WRITER
PALLADIUM-ITEM


Five years ago, Marilyn Renee "Niqui" McCown disappeared after being last seen at a coin-operated laundry in the 1000 block of South E Street.

She remains missing.

In the past five years, much has changed for her daughter and her family.

Her little girl, Payton Johnston, was just 9 when she last saw her mother. Just a week ago, she celebrated her 14th birthday.

McCown's nine siblings and stepsiblings didn't always see eye-to-eye back then.

"We have gotten closer because we have the same focus. We want the same thing," said McCown's sister, Terrilyn Jett.

They want to know what happened to McCown.

On past anniversaries of McCown's disappearance, the family has had candlelight vigils. This year, they organized a celebration of McCown's life and brought together, with the help of the Midwest Coalition for the Missing, several families and law enforcement members who are seeking lost loved ones or the criminals who are to blame. About 100 people gathered Saturday at the Richard Jeffers Boys & Girls Club for the discussion, food, fellowship, and entertainment for children.

"We just decided to celebrate the memory of her -- not to say that she's not coming back," said McCown's sister, Michelle McCown-Luster.

"I feel so good," McCown-Luster said. "It's overwhelming to see all these people from out of town coming out."

"The community just seems to be there for us," Jett said, noting that there are three donated billboards around Richmond reminding people that information is still sought in McCown's disappearance.

When her sister first disappeared, Jett said she was terribly angry. It took a long time, she said, but she was finally able to let go of that anger through faith.

"We live by faith, not by sight," Jett said.

One day, she hopes that their prayers and questions will be answered.

"Niqui lives daily in my heart," McCown's mother, Barbara McCown told those gathered. "I talk to her and I sing to her and I pray with her.

"For you who loved Niqui and held her close, she is not gone. Look around ... Share this with everyone and let them know the power of love," Barbara McCown said.

Many tears were shed during the evening as Barbara McCown and others recalled McCown. However, none were so touching as those shed by Payton when she tried to thank her family members and friends for their support during the past five years. She broke off, in tears, and turned sobbing into her father's arms.

"This is why we're here," said Patti Bishop, co-founder of the Midwest Coalition for the Missing. "The pain of the child whose mother was snatched away without that final moment."

Bishop's stepdaughter, Karen Jo Smith, was last seen in 2000 in Indianapolis and remains missing. However, Smith's ex-husband was convicted of her murder in 2004.

"We feel we all understand each other's pain," said Karren Kraemer, co founder of the coalition, whose daughter is missing from Milwaukee, Wis.

The McCowns and other families with missing members were able to gain inspiration Friday night by hearing the stories of prosecutor Ellen Corcella, whose work led to the conviction of Smith's ex-husband, Lt. Don Bender of the Indianapolis Police Department's missing persons unit, and two officers from North Carolina.

Bender likened each missing persons case to being given a 1,000-piece puzzle of a field full of sunflowers, only to find just four pieces in the box and having to locate all the others.

"If Niqui was a victim of violence, you can be assured there are other people out there who know about it," Bender said.

The speakers encouraged the McCowns and others in similar circumstances to work and find support from others who share their experience, to work with law enforcement and to continue to keep their loved one's story in the minds of their communities because it only takes the right tip to solve the mystery.

Although Payton Johnston was moved to tears Saturday night as she remembered her mother and shared her appreciation for those who have helped her, she also was able to find joy in the evening.

The celebration of her mother, Niqui McCown, also include a birthday celebration for her, complete with cake, the "Happy Birthday" song and gifts.

Payton grinned as she dumped foam peanuts from a box to discover a mouse, speakers and mouse pad for a brand new computer from the Midwest Coalition for the Missing members.

"She is the best of Niqui's life," said coalition cofounder Karren Kraemer, adding a promise that the mothers in the group will offer Payton any assistance they can. "We'll be here for the rest of her life."

http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti...NEWS01/61102011

Richmond woman's disappearance brings reward offer
Palladium-Item

The family of Niqui McCown has called a news conference for 9 a.m. Friday at the Richmond Municipal Building.

They were to be in Indianapolis today to participate in the announcement of a 20-day offer of a $100,000 reward for information about her disappearance five years ago.

McCown is one of seven mission Hoosiers included in the offer from Philadelphia businessman Joe Mammana, according to information on the Internet.

Niqui McCown was last seen July 22, 2001, in a coin laundry on South E Street.

The reward offer starts Nov. 5 and runs through Nov. 24.

http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti...NEWS01/61103005

McCown family gives out details on reward offer for tips in missing person case

PALLADIUM-ITEM

Niqui McCown’s family laid out the specifics today of a 20-day offer of a $100,000 reward for information leading to the location of their missing daughter.

The plan begins Sunday and lasts until Nov. 24.

Anyone who provides information about where Niqui is or how she disappeared is eligible for the reward being offered by Pennsylvania businessman Joe Mammana.

Anyone with any information should contact Detective Roger Redmond at the Richmond Police Department at (765) 983-7247.

http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti.../611030488/1006

November 3, 2006

$2M put up for missing persons
Businessman offers rewards in 20 cases, 7 in Indiana

By Diana Penner
diana.penner@indystar.com

Seven families of missing Hoosiers have rekindled hope of finding their loved ones -- or at least finding out what happened to them -- thanks to a Philadelphia businessman who is putting up big rewards.

REWARDS OFFERED FOR 7 MISSING HOOSIERS

Seven Hoosiers are among 20 cases nationwide identified for a 20-day, $2 million reward fund, beginning Sunday.

Anyone who comes forward with information leading to any of the missing people, or to the arrest and conviction of those responsible, will receive $100,000. The tipsters can remain anonymous, organizers said.

Tips must be received by Nov. 24 and must be directed to the law enforcement agency responsible for the case.

Information on all 20 cases is available at www.411GINA.org.

The seven Indiana cases are:

• Lola Katherine Fry (1), born Feb. 20, 1965; missing since Nov. 14, 1993, from Greenwood. Contact Indiana State Police, (317) 899-8508.

• Karen Jo Smith (2), born Oct. 12, 1965; missing since Dec. 27, 2000, from Indianapolis. Contact Indianapolis Police Department, (317) 327-6917.

• Marilyn Renee "Niqui" McCown (3), born Jan. 6, 1973; missing since July 22, 2001, from Richmond. Contact Richmond Police Department, (765) 983-7247.

• Scott Michael Javins (4), born Nov. 19, 1981; missing since May 24, 2002, from Terre Haute. Contact Vigo County Sheriff's Department, (812) 462-3226.

• Harold Bradley Hensley (5), born Sept. 20, 1976; missing since Jan. 11 from Plainfield. Contact Plainfield Police Department, (317) 839-8700.

• Shannon Rayanne Turner (6), born Aug. 10, 1964; missing since Dec. 4, 1997, from Indianapolis. Contact IPD, (317) 327-6915.

• Shannon Sherrill (7), born Aug. 12, 1980; missing since Oct. 5, 1986, from Thorntown. Contact Indiana State Police, (317) 899-8501.

Family members of six of the seven gathered Downtown on Thursday at the Omni Severin Hotel to plead for information and to dangle the lure of $100,000 -- in each case -- to anyone who offers information that locates the missing person or leads to arrests and convictions in the cases.

The Indiana seven are among 20 missing persons cases nationwide tagged with rewards totaling $2 million put up by Joe Mammana, who owns an egg farm and is a former Marine. He has a degree in criminal justice and a police record for charges of aggravated assault, drugs, fraud and theft.

In recent years, however, he has become a crime fighter, putting up sizable rewards in high-profile cases, including that of Natalee Holloway, the Alabama high school student who vanished last year in Aruba.
Last month, Patti Bishop, stepmother of Karen Jo Smith, who disappeared in Indianapolis on Dec. 27, 2000, contacted Mammana about her vision for a "Squeaky Wheel Tour'' to draw attention to missing persons cases.
Mammana liked the idea and agreed to fund rewards to try to draw out information. In short order, he and Bishop devised a plan to offer $2 million for 20 cases for 20 days -- Sunday through Nov. 24 -- with $100,000 dedicated to each case.

Thanks to Bishop's involvement and her knowledge of Indiana cases, the state is heavily represented on the list. The other 13 cases are from Missouri, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Alabama and Arkansas.

"Someone knows something,'' said Kristin Hensley, Plainfield. Her husband, Harold "Brad'' Hensley, was 29 when he went missing Jan. 11. "We just need to get the story out there.''

Hensley is the most recent to go missing of the Indiana cases; Shannon Sherrill has been gone the longest -- she was 6 years old when she disappeared Oct. 5, 1986, from Thorntown.

"There hasn't been a day go by that I haven't hoped that she's found,'' her father, Mike Sherrill, said. "I just hope somebody somewhere comes forward and helps me find my daughter.''

Some of the cases previously have included rewards, but none as large as $100,000 or the cumulative $2 million the families hope will buy them attention. Some investigators share that hope.

"It's my hope that this money will bring someone forward,'' said Lt. Donald Bender of the Indianapolis Police Department's missing persons division. The concept regularly works with the CrimeStoppers program, he noted.

Bishop quoted Mammana, the benefactor: "People will turn in their own family for money.''

Family members and investigators often are frustrated in the belief that people have information but are afraid to come forward. The reward money, they said, might be just the incentive those folks need, said Darlene Pitts, sister of Lola Katherine Fry, Greenwood, missing since Nov. 14, 1993.

"This might shake the right bush,'' she said.


Call Star reporter Diana Penner at (317) 444-6249.

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Reward offer lifts spirits
Lead detective names person of interest, vows to find truth

BY DON FASNACHT
STAFF WRITER

Richmond Police investigator Roger Redmond has been assigned to the Niqui McCown case since the earliest days.

"It's been a roller-coaster ride," Redmond said Friday.

The latest high point in the five-year investigation was announced Friday -- the offer of a $100,000 reward for information leading to the missing Richmond woman.

"People will do a lot of things for $100,000," Redmond said.

His hope is someone will provide the key to unlocking the McCown mystery.

During the past five years, Redmond has talked to hundreds of people, gleaning what they might know. He describes most of it as information junk.

But Redmond has meticulously recorded it and saved it. After five years, it fills a box and he's starting a second.

"This case has taken me out of my jurisdiction a lot," Redmond said, mostly to Dayton, Ohio, where Niqui worked and sometimes lived.

Redmond said he learned Friday that a Dayton lead he'd been following for a month dried up an hour before the reward announcement.

His five years of investigation have brought him close to the McCown family.

"That's my man," Barbara McCown said of Redmond when he was introduced at a news conference.

Redmond stays in touch. They know his voice on the phone when he calls; he knows theirs.

After five years, Redmond accepts the fact Niqui is probably not just a missing person.

"I think we're dealing with a homicide here," Redmond said.

The stacks of evidence that have been accumulated haven't provided many solid facts. There are suspicions.

"I'm still looking at Robert Webster," Redmond said.

Webster and Niqui McCown were to marry a few weeks after she disappeared on July 22, 2001.

"He's (Webster) a person of interest," Police Chief Kris Wolski said.

Wolski said this has been an investigation that has "many twists, many turns." But the Richmond Police Department doesn't intend to set it aside.

Neither does Redmond.

He looked into the television cameras this morning and spoke to anyone out there who might have been involved in Niqui's disappearance.

"If you're sleeping well, don't," Redmond said. "I'll probably find you. I don't give up."

http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti.../611040303/1008

Family hopeful reward will bring results
Pennsylvania businessman names Richmond woman in list of 20 missing

BY DON FASNACHT
STAFF WRITER

Niqui McCown's family has received a $100,000 inoculation of hope.

"This is the Lord's work," Niqui's mother, Barbara McCown, said. "I've waited so long for this."

Barbara McCown and her family gathered Friday morning to announce the details of a 20-day offer of a $100,000 reward for information that will lead to finding her daughter.

Niqui McCown disappeared on July 22, 2001, last seen at a coin-operated laundry on South E Street in Richmond.

Since then she has been the object of an intense and far-ranging, but fruitless, search. The investigation into her disappearance has been a maze of blind alleys.

It's hoped the $100,000 reward offered by Pennsylvania businessman Joe Mammana will do what thousands of hours of police work have not: find an answer.

"Money talks," Richmond Police Chief Kris Wolski said. "Somebody, somewhere knows something."

Niqui McCown is one of 20 missing persons designated for the $100,000 rewards. Seven of the cases are in Indiana.

The offer begins Sunday and lasts until Nov. 24.

Wolski said of the reward designees, "These are people who are basically unnoticed." The offer of cash will bring attention.

"We believe this program will produce results," Wolski said.

Barbara McCown said learning about Niqui's inclusion in the program, "I was in a daze."

She credits Patti Bishop, the stepmother of another missing Hoosier, Karen Jo Smith, with getting Niqui included in the list of 20. Bishop assured her through the process of picking people, "It's not over yet."

The offer of the reward may rejuvenate public interest in a mystery and a tragedy that has been an obsession for Niqui's family for five years.

Asked how often she thinks of her mother, Niqui's daughter Payton Johnston said, "Every day. I still talk to her."

Payton was 9 when her mother vanished. Now she is a freshman at Richmond High School.

"I only knew my mom for nine years," Payton said, "so I've got to keep her memory alive. I do what my mom would want me to do -- go to school, work hard and get good grades."

Payton lives with her grandmother, but gets support from her aunts and uncles.

"They help me stay strong," Payton said. "I talk about her (Niqui) like she's still here."

One of those aunts is Michelle McCown-Lester. She expresses the determination to bring some resolution to Niqui's disappearance.

"I will bring my sister home," Michelle said.

To anyone who has information about Niqui's disappearance, Michelle said, "You have 20 days."

Richmond Police Detective Roger Redmond, who has been the lead investigator on the Niqui case, said, "I can guarantee you this family won't give up."

Reporter Don Fasnacht: (765) 973-4483 or Dfasnacht@pal-item.com

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Deadline passes for reward
$100,000 fails to entice new leads in Niqui McCown case

BY DON FASNACHT
STAFF WRITER

"If for some reason this isn't the time, I'm still sure Niqui will come home someday," Barbara McCown said.

Barbara McCown is Niqui's mother. She had a surge of hope when the reward offer was made that the money might resolve the five-year-old case that has baffled investigators.

Philadelphia businessman Joe Mammana made the offer. It began on Nov. 5 and ended Friday.

"It's been such a ride," Barbara McCown said.

"I'm staying busy to keep my mind off the deadline," she said Friday afternoon.

Detective Roger Redmond, the lead investigator on Niqui's case, had hoped the prospect of the reward might cause someone to talk.

"I got nothing," Redmond said. "I've had 10 or 12 calls from psychics, but that's all.

"I thought there might be a last-minute call," Redmond said Friday, "someone who has been thinking about it for 20 days. But there's been nothing."

Niqui McCown (her real name is Marilyn Renee, but everyone calls her Niqui) was last seen by her family on July 22, 2001. She was doing her wash at a coin-operated laundry at 1100 S. E St. and then she vanished.

The investigation has gone back and forth between Richmond and Dayton, Ohio, where the car Niqui was driving when she disappeared was found four months later.

Since the disappearance Niqui's daughter Payton has grown from a nine-year-old grade schooler to a high school freshman; Redmond has accumulated one carton full of notes on the case and started a second; and the family has been on a roller-coaster ride of hope and despair.

"The holidays are the worst part," Niqui's sister Terrilyn Jett said the day after Thanksgiving. "Everyone gets a little teary," not only about Niqui but also about her father who has died since the disappearance.

"But we never give up hope," Jett said.

Barbara McCown is getting another glimmer of hope from Mammana. He has said he may renew the 20-day offer in the future.

"Whether he does or whether he doesn't, I'll keep looking for my baby," Barbara McCown said.

There's little in the case to cause much true joy. Redmond accepts the fact he is not just looking for a missing person.

But Barbara McCown finds comfort in one thing. "So many people have sent me notes or called," she said. "I didn't know so many people loved Niqui.

"Knowing that is a blessing," Barbara McCown said.

http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti...331/1003/NEWS03

Wednesday, February 7, 2007

Mother still retains hope for life of missing daughter

A new year has begun -- another new beginning, another day of love, hope and faith. Last July we celebrated Niqui's life, even though Detective Redmond advises us of Niqui's demise. We have seen no proof and after the capture and release of two kidnapped teens, my hope is boundless. Two and a half years ago I was in a deep concentration about Niqui. I spoke and prayed endlessly to God. While contemplating, a thought came in to my mind -- love, hope and faith. This has been my calling card. Numerous times it has covered and protected and then last March while conferring with God, he showed me why: for the love of Niqui, hope of a father and faith of a mother -- three words that mean everything in my existence now.

Love represents God for he is love. Hope represents Jesus, for if God is the father then Jesus Christ can be our only hope. And faith is the Holy Ghost, for where I go you cannot follow but I will send you a comforter. Mary covered herself with it daily and this mother does the same. Many letters and phone calls later I feel I must answer, so I turn to the media, as I could not possibly recall all of your names.

Chew it and let it become honey in your mouth. Believe me, it will. Continue with your prayers. Where two or more come together, he is there too.

Justice for Niqui -- or is it "just us"?

Barbara McCown, Richmond

McCown's daughter, Marilyn "Niqui" McCown, has been missing since July 22, 2001.

Families make plea for missing persons bill

March 13, 2007 05:51 PM CDT

Kevin Rader/Eyewitness News

Indianapolis - Lawmakers took action on legislation designed to aid in the search of missing persons in the state. The House already passed out the bill and now it is the Senate's turn. The testimony was very emotional.

We have heard the names of the missing like Brookley Louks and Charles Rickey but Tuesday the Senate Homeland Security Committee heard what made these people special, and what made the search for the missing so frustrating.

The committee heard from Molly Datillo's cousin, Karen Joe Smith's stepmother, Wade Steffey's dad and Lola Catherine Fry's sister. But it was Niqui McCown's mother who really captured their spirit.

"Someone took something from me more valuable than gold. My baby," said Barbara McCown. "There are so many Niquis out there and no one seems to care but put yourself in my place. There is no way whether you pass this or not that you will forget Niqui. You will forget none of the Niquis that are out there. They are your family. Don't walk over them like they didn't exist. We want an answer. We demand an answer."

They want law enforcement to act quickly when it comes to missing person reports. The testimony showed the toll it can take on a family.

"I come before you hoping you will listen to all the Niquis out there who are crying out. They want to be heard. This old woman who has one wish and one wish only. Bring them home," McCown pleaded.

The Homeland Security committee can't do that, but it can aid in the search which it did by passing the bill out 9-0.
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Missing and missed
Ceremony recalls family member gone 24 years

BY RYAN S. CLARK
STAFF WRITER

Twenty-four years have passed but one thing remains the same -- Rhonda Combs and Darrell Holland still love and miss their brother Carl.

And they claim to have new information that they hope will answer a question that has gone unanswered for almost a quarter century.

In June 1983, Rhonda was visiting her 23-year-old brother and a woman with whom he was living in Ohio. All of a sudden, she said, her brother got up and left his home and never returned. It was the last time Rhonda Combs saw him.

Saturday was the first time the family members decided to share feelings with the community as they held a ceremony in Carl's honor. About 25 people attended the 90-minute ceremony, including Tammy McCown, who is the sister of Niqui McCown, who disappeared from a coin-operated laundry on July 22, 2001.

"We are doing this just to let (Carl) know that he is loved and we wish he would come home," Rhonda Combs said. "You can't give up. We have to keep trying."

Holland, who attended Richmond High School, is one of two active missing persons cases in Richmond. McCown is the second.

After Holland left the home 24 years ago, family members became worried when a few days passed and they had not heard from him.

After a few more days, his vehicle was discovered in Lynn, Ind.

His family wanted to file a missing persons report, but because Holland was an adult, they had to wait two weeks to file, said Darrell Holland.

Since then, the family has been doing what it can to find its loved one.

Over the past six months, the family has learned more information, Combs said.

"We can't talk about what we've found," Combs said. "But I have a good feeling."

Holland's brother and sister have been the ones doing the bulk of the investigating, because their father passed away and their mother has become seriously ill.

"If anyone knows anything about where Carl is, all they have to do is call us, they don't even have to give us their name," Holland said. "Until someone finds his body and proves to me that he's dead, he is still alive."

Combs described her brother as a nice, laid-back person who loved children and enjoyed playing a good game of pool.

Her fondest memory of her brother came when he was painting the ceiling of their mother's home.

"He was about 6'3'' or 6'4" and could paint the ceiling just by standing on his toes," Combs said. "One day while he was painting, his nephew James got into the paint cans and was covered from head to toe. All Carl could do is laugh because he loved kids so much."

Police inquiry unveils link
Lack of disclosure costs Ohio officer his job
BY RYAN S. CLARK
STAFF WRITER


Police said Saturday that a former Trotwood, Ohio, police officer was one of a few people regarded as "persons of interest" in the missing person case of Marilyn "Niqui" McCown of Richmond.

Tommy Swint, 40, reportedly resigned on Aug. 31 from the Trotwood Police Department after his employer was informed that he was a person of interest in the case of McCown, who has been missing since she disappeared from a coin-operated laundry in 2001.


"I know there were a number of people (the detectives) were looking at during one time or another," said Richmond Police Chief Kris Wolski.

"There was her fiance (Robert Webster), there has always been the talk about a couple of males in the area, but I don't think any names have been tied into that. I think there had been a couple of other people they looked at as persons of interest."

A "person of interest" is somebody police would like to talk to who could be viewed as a suspect or a contributor of information crucial to solving a case, Wolski said.

Wolski said Trotwood police were doing a background check on Swint, then a job candidate, when they learned about his status in connection with the McCown case.

Swint was given the choice to resign or be terminated because he did not disclose his background, according to a report by the Dayton Daily News.

"Three months ago someone from Trotwood called us," Wolski said. "It's not that we are investigating him at this time, but as part of his employment they were doing a background check and they called us.

"We told them in 2001, we looked at him as a possible suspect and that was it."

The Dayton Daily News Web site quotes Richmond Police Capt. Greg Pipes as saying Swint refused to be interviewed about McCown's disappearance.

Wolski said that Swint was interviewed shortly after McCown's disappearance and did not offer much information.

"If all of a sudden he (Swint) wanted to change his mind, we'd certainly listen," Wolski said.

"Like I said there is nothing new that leads us to believe that he is any more of a person of interest now than he has ever been."

Swint joined the Marines in 1989 where he saw combat in Panama, according to the Dayton Daily News Web site. He left the Marines in 1990 and moved to Dayton where he met his wife.

In May 1994, Swint was hired on at the Montgomery Education and Pre-Release Center, which is a state prison in Dayton.

Both Swint and McCown had worked together for the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections.

Swint left the Ohio DOC in August to take a job at the Trotwood Police Department, where he resigned just days later following the phone call about his history came to light.

Swint, as well as Trotwood Public Safety Director Michael Etter and City Manager Michael Lucking could not be reached for comment Saturday.

McCown's sister, Tamie Hughes of Richmond, said Friday night the family had known of investigators interest in Swint for some time but was told by the police not to say anything.

Hughes described McCown and Swint as close and said her sister "looked at him as a brother."

Michelle McCown-Luster, another McCown sister from Huber Heights, Ohio, told the Dayton Daily News that it "sickened her" that a suspect in her sister's case could be a police officer. Swint has not been arrested or charged with anything in connection with McCown's disappearance.

In November 2004, police located McCown's car at an apartment complex in Dayton, Ohio.

The car belonged to Webster and was registered in Ohio.

"She knew good and bad people over there," Hughes said of her sister's time in Ohio
http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti.../710140301/1008

Former Trotwood Officer Responds To McCown Disappearance
Brittny McGraw, Reporter

POSTED: 8:04 pm EDT October 17, 2007
UPDATED: 8:29 pm EDT October 17, 2007


DAYTON, Ohio -- Wednesday afternoon a former Trotwood police officer responded to allegations he’s a person of interest or suspect in a six-year-old missing persons case.

Tommy Swint resigned from the Trotwood Police Department in August, about a month after joining the force.

During a press conference held Wednesday by Swint and his lawyer, Anthony VanNoy, Swint said police questioned him about Niqui McCown shortly after her disappearance.

McCown was last seen in July of 2001 at a Laundromat in Richmond, Ind.

Swint and McCown worked together at an Ohio prison before her disappearance. During the press conference, Swint said Richmond, Ind., police questioned him, along with other workers at the prison, about where she hung out, her relationships and her family.

“It was just routine questioning,” Swint said. “Many people at the prison were questioned. Nobody was told they were a person of interest or a suspect in the case.”

Trotwood Police said Swint should have shared that information during his interview process and decided it was in the best interest of the department and the city for him to resign.

“We were informed by Richmond he was a person of interest, a strong person of interest in the investigation,” said Chief Mike Etter of the Trotwood Police Department. “And our concern with Mr. Swint when we discussed this with him wasn’t his innocence or guilt, but the fact that he did not disclose this.”

Swint said he didn’t bring it up during the interview process because he didn’t know he might be considered a person of interest in the case.

“If Detective Redmond had told me that or informed me of that, that would have been taken care of back then,” Swint said.

Detective Roger Redmond is an investigator working the McCown case.

Richmond Detective Sgt. Brad Berner said he believed one of his investigators was doing a routine review of the case and as a part of that contacted Trotwood police.

He said the department has not named any suspects in the case and said it’s routine to keep track of people they interviewed in the past.

“I believe one of the supervisors stated this is a person of interest,” said Berner. “Well a person of interest in our line of work is exactly that: someone we want to talk to or we’ve got information on. But it doesn’t mean he’s a suspect.”

Berner said his department had not been in contact with Swint in several years.

Swint said he wondered why this issue resurfaced now.

“I wonder the same thing,” Swint said. “Why just now when I’m a Trotwood police officer and not all of the years I was at the same place for 13 years. Why?”

http://www.whiotv.com/news/14364832/detail.html

Investigates
New information gives twist to cold case

Posted: July 17, 2008 02:13 PM CDT

Updated: July 17, 2008 10:00 PM CDT



Sandra Chapman/13 Investigates

Richmond - Next week marks the 7th anniversary since an Indiana mother vanished just weeks before her wedding.

Police presume the worst. Now 13 Investigates uncovers a secret between sisters that's led to a major turn in the case.

Payton Johnston is dreaming one day her mother will come home. She was nine years old when Marilyn "Niqui" McCown vanished seven years ago.

"I knew she wouldn't leave me," the 16-year old said with sad eyes as she talked about growing up without her mother's guidance.

Weather worn pictures of the striking 28-year-old mother sit faded outside the family's Richmond home. The heartache inside is fresh with another anniversary at the door.

"I just want her home. And if they've taken her and did something with her they ain't got to confess, just tell me where they laid her," said Niqiu's mother, Barbara "Dolly" McCown. "Just tell me where she's at," she begged as tears flowed down her cheeks.

Barbara McCown last saw her daughter July 22, 2001. It was a sweltering day, three weeks before Niqui's wedding.

That Sunday Niqui went to do laundry blocks from her mother's house after attending church and pre-marriage counseling with her fiancé, Bobby Webster.

Webster strongly rebuffs any thoughts that Niqui had cold feet about the pending nuptials and deliberately ran away.

"No, that's impossible because if you would have seen how much effort she put into it you know. This is what she wanted," insisted Webster.

Initially Niqui's family thought she was abducted from the laundromat where some men had been harassing her.

Richmond Police eliminated that theory based on surveillance tape from a nearby convenience store.

"When she's leaving the facility there I can tell she's under no duress whatsoever," said Detective Roger Redmond, of the Richmond Police Department. "I can probably give you a 100-percent surety she was not taken from the laundromat," he told 13 Investigates.

Instead, questions surround Niqui's fiancé.

According to Redmond, "He didn't come across as your typical grieving fiance of a missing girl. I don't know that you can tell the truth and show that you're lying on a polygraph test," he said of Bobby Webster.

Investigators readily admit there's no evidence against Bobby Webster. But days after Niqui went missing, he cancelled the wedding and tried to get her wedding band deposit.

"I hadn't been to work in like two weeks and I was just grabbing extra money that we had out there," countered Webster. He said he was an easy target. "I believe they were looking at me because they didn't know any other direction to go. I'm the obvious choice. I'm the fiancé," he added.

Detective Redmond admitted, "It's been a tough case. A lot of time spent on it," he said of the seven-year investigation that has cooled in regards to Bobby Webster.

Part of the difficulty is tracking a case that crosses state lines into Ohio.

Police now think the answers to this complex missing person's case point to the Meadows of Catalpa, a large apartment complex in Dayton, Ohio. Investigators found Niqui McCown's GMC Jimmy on November 3, 2001, four months after her disappearance.

Niqui once lived in the Meadows of Catalpa too. Her laundry was discovered still neatly folded and undisturbed in the backseat of the truck when it was found.

The day Niqui disappeared, she called a female co-worker who lives less than a mile away. That co-worker reportedly told police Niqui intended to pick up vitamins at a nearby pharmacy.

This is where the case takes a turn.

Niqui's sister Michelle McCown Luster, now publicly reveals a guarded secret. She says it explains why Niqui frantically tried to get a hold of her the day she vanished.

"There was something going on with Niqui and she wanted to tell somebody," said McCown Luster.

The sisterly secret is about a triangle Niqui's mother and fiancé knew nothing about.

"She would always tell me I don't care what he wants, he's just like a big brother to me," explained McCown Luster referring to former Trotwood, Ohio Police Officer Tommie Swint. Swint and Niqui had worked together at a Dayton prison, the Montgomery Education and Pre-Release Center.

McCown Luster said she warned her sister about the relationship. "I kept telling her, I don't know how many times I told my sister quit taking from this man. And now she's missing and he's a person of interest," she told 13 Investigates.

In October of last year, Tommie Swint disputed his role in the case.

"Detective Redmond never told me or informed me that I was a suspect, or a person of interest," Swint said at the time from his attorney's office.

But Richmond Police aren't backing away from their previous statements when asked if Swint is a person of interest in the disappearance of Niqui McCown.

"Yes, he is," said Detective Redmond without hesitation. "We had some information on the case here that connected him with it. Tom Swint was not cooperative in the investigation," he added.

The big question: Was there a romantic relationship at any point between Tommie Swint and Niqui McCown?

Niqui's sister, bowed her head and then responded, "Okay how do I explain this? Maybe a few times it went more than just friends," said McCown Luster.

Investigators say Tommie Swint is also connected to the residence of that female co-worker Niqui called the day she went missing.

According to McCown Luster and Niqui's fiancé Bobby Webster, Swint had more than a casual friendship with the co-worker, despite his long-time marriage.

13 Investigates questioned police about the possibility of a female person of interest in this case. Detective Redmond reponded, "No comment."

McCown Luster doesn't mince words about her suspicions. "If you ask me what I think happened to my sister, I really believe Tommy Swint can give you that answer," she said.

Swint refused to speak with 13 Investigates about the case or his pending lawsuits against both the Richmond and Trotwood Police Departments.

So far, there have been no arrests.

"In a case like this when you go to court, you have to have proof. And when I go to court on this case I'll have the proof I need," said Detective Redmond, who believes the investigation is on the right track.

Niqui McCown's family prays for the proof that will lead to a suspect and help bring Niqui home soon.

"How do you close it?" questioned a distraught Barbara McCown. "How in the h**l do you close it, when there's no casket?"

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Niqui McCown, contact the Richmond Police Department at 1-765-983-7250.
http://www.wthr.com/Global/story.asp?S=8692837

http://www.wishtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=8907943&nav=0Ra7

Search for Niqui McCown gains attention

Posted: Aug 27, 2008 09:54 AM EDT

Search for Niqui McCown gains national attention





Niqui McCown vanished on a hot summer day in July, 2001, just three weeks before her wedding.



RICHMOND, Ind. (WDTN) - A missing mother from Richmond is getting national attention. More than seven years ago, Niqui McCown vanished. Tuesday night, a national tour made a stop in her hometown.

The tour is called "On the Road to Remember." Volunteers travel the county and offer support to families with missing loved ones. Their mission is to bring attention to the missing, and never let the cases go cold.

Tuesday's stop was at a laundromat in Richmond. Candles were lit and prayers were said for Niqui McCown. The laundromat was the last place anyone ever saw the young mother.

She vanished on a hot summer day in July, 2001, just three weeks before her wedding. Police suspect foul play, but no arrests have been made.

Her family says even though it's been seven years, the nightmare is still fresh for them, and they desperately want answers.

Niqui's sister, Michelle McCown said, "Somebody out there knows what happened to my sister and they may not be in the state of Indiana or Ohio. They may be all the way in Florida or wherever. So, to get this nationally spread is very important to my family."

Richmond police say former Trotwood police officer Tommie Swint is a person of interest. McCown and Swint worked together at a Dayton prison.


This is still an active case, and Niqui's family believes the truth will come out soon.

If you have any information that can help officers crack this case, call Richmond police at (765) 983-7247.

Reported by Chelby Costo, WDTN.