You're so right! I didn't mean that pings would lead LE directly to LG's remains. It should have narrowed it down for them, or suggested areas to search. IIRC, the only LE led searches have been in the landfills and dumps, and along the river where LG was known to go jogging. They seem to be at a loss for other areas to search, which is why I don't think they have cell records to guide them. Or, it's just not a priority.
Which leads me to another question. How important is it to LE to recover LG's remains? If they feel there's enough evidence already in hand, would they go through the time and expense of searching for the rest of her body? I know they finally searched the landfill, but that was a joint effort between private and public concerns, and was touted as a goodwill gesture on LE's part. Other than that one, LE hasn't led any searches other than the cursory ones I listed above. So, I guess what I'm wondering is if that's because they don't have any leads on where to search? Or, they have an idea or two, perhaps from cell records, but they can make a case without her remains, and budgetary constraints are a larger consideration?
Then my other question is this one. If LE has a lead on where the remains might be, through ping records or otherwise, but they don't feel it's necessary from a LE standpoint to search for them, would they share the information with the family so they could put together a private search? Have you ever encountered a situation like that, Oriah?
The answer might vary from case to case and between jurisdicitons. But is there a legal reason that would preclude sharing the information with next of kin?
BBM:
This gave me pause for thought, bessie.
Zahra Baker.
I do think that most LEA's would share that with family (if family were not suspect, as Lauren's family is not.)
However, I also think that if LE had even an inkling of an idea as to where partial remains might be located, they may wish to remain in control of possible future search efforts until the case has been closed. Especially if a COD cannot be determined from the partial remains already located.
I also think that some jursidictions are so completely upset by these sorts of crimes (thank god for that- not all LE is hardened AT ALL) that even though budgetary restrictions may prevent them from moving forward with searches for partial remains that are not *necessary* for prosecution, they would keep that option on the back burner so to say, should an area of interest come up.
Also, it wouldn't surprise me in the least to see another 'volunteer/professional/goodwill' search in the future, with a lot of LE participation.
I think the nature of this terrible crime has a lot of LE wanting to do everything they can- either on the clock, or on their own time- to try and bring full resolution to Lauren's family. To bring her home.