Essex Junction, Vermont - June 17, 2011
"As of today the location of Bill and Lorraine Currier is unknown," Essex Police Lt. George Murtie said.
Devastating news for a family clinging to hope more than a week after the married couple from Essex mysteriously vanished from their Colbert Street home.
"We have received dozens of leads from concerned citizens regarding possible sightings of the Curriers," Murtie said.
But nothing solid has panned out. On Friday the family gathered at the Essex Police Department to announce they will be offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the whereabouts of Bill and Lorraine.
"We love them both with all our hearts," said Marilyn Chates, Bill's mother. "We're devastated by their disappearance and in fear for their lives."
Chates-- surrounded by her loved ones-- made an emotional plea to the public.
"Please search your heart," she said. "Search your mind and review your memory and call the Essex Police with any bit of information, however small it may seem to you, that will help to save the lives of our dear Bill and Lorraine."
Earlier this week the Chittenden County Probate Court approved Marilyn Chates' request to become the emergency temporary guardian of the couple's assets. This means she will have control of Bill and Lorraine's home, bank accounts and wages until September 14. According to court paperwork "immediate, serious and irreparable harm may result to the respondent's financial affairs if a limited guardian is not appointed promptly."
With the Curriers' assets protected, police continue their quest to bring the couple home.
"We have executed 11 search warrants, three subpoenas. We have obtained bank records, phone records, employment records, computer records and personal documents," Murtie said.
They've also conducted foot searches within a 1-mile perimeter of the couple's home. Satellite images show it's a densely wooded area and police say wet weather has made these searches difficult. Another blow for a family struggling to cope with the Curriers' disappearance.
"Every day that they're not found increases our concern," Chates said.
Police say they'll spend the weekend going over the surveillance footage from 25 area businesses. They'll also follow up on leads generated from the composite sketch of a man possibly seen driving the Curriers' car near the Essex Junction shopping center last Thursday afternoon.
Again anyone with information is urged to call Essex police at 802-878-8331.
Jennifer Reading - WCAX News
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Bill and Lorraine Currier
Marilyn Chates
