Assistance Received in Ongoing Search for Lindsey Baum

Law enforcement will receive assistance this week from State of Washington Department of Corrections inmates in the ongoing search for missing 12-year-old Lindsey Baum of McCleary, Washington. The FBI, Gray’s Harbor Sheriff’s Department, and Washington State Patrol will be working with inmates from the Cedar Creek Corrections Center (CCCC) to conduct a number of targeted searches in and around McCleary this Tuesday Wednesday, and Thursday, October 26-28, 2010. The inmates previously assisted in searches for Lindsey earlier this year during August and early October.

Although seemingly an unlikely source of assistance to law enforcement, the inmates have provided a dedicated and hard-working labor force. With the equipment and supervision provided by the Department of Corrections, the inmates’ ability to clear large areas of dense vegetation to ground has allowed for comprehensive searching in areas of investigative interest. The accompanying photos show inmates assisting during a search earlier this year. Clearing of the vegetation during that search revealed disturbed earth leading to the recovery of bones, which subsequently were determined to be animal remains.

More than the opportunity to be outside for extended hours or to earn $.75 per hour, the inmates seem genuinely interested in helping to solve this case. CCCC Superintendent Douglas Cole noted his belief that the ability for the inmates to participate in something good, something for the benefit of their future community, instills in them a sense of pride and is an important part of the rehabilitation process. The FBI appreciates all assistance from the public—and future members of the public—to help find Lindsey.