It might also be an issue of them using scent dogs instead of cadaver dogs. Since different dogs are used for different situations, it's possible the K9's were only looking for a live scent. I don't know a whole lot about K9 units, so this is JMO. I have also thought that perhaps the dogs did track to that apartment, and that is why the AmberAlert went out, but there may have been issues in trying to search that apartment. I have a feeling that LE knew this girl was there long before they could get to her. I am remembering how SLPD directed the Norton's to Liberty Park on the 24th of July (A Utah Holiday much like Independence Day) to "talk" to people and take Destiny's poster around. Meanwhile, they just wanted the Norton's to be kept busy as they pulled Destiny's body from the crawl space of her neighbor's home. I feel that Utah LE has learned much from past cases such as Destiny Norton, Elizabeth Smart, etc. and I am happy to see them utilizing that experience and knowledge.
I haven't heard anything about this crime being sexually motivated, but it just seems so odd that this man or these men would kill her to try to keep her from leaving. There has to be a motive for this crime.
Blink34,
You are right, things are different from when we were children, and I have known this for some time. I guess this case really drove that fact home for me, though, and made it more personal. I feel as though I am grieving not only for Hser and family, and Destiny and family, but for the freedom and innocence my own children (someday) will not get to enjoy, as I did.
I am very impressed with SLPD and their determination in this case as well as many past others. And while the world has changed since I played on those streets, much of the community has not. This case has shown me, again, why my hometown is so dear to me. I am amazed at the almost 1,000 people who took the time to get involved and try to find this poor child.
