Posted by joy.the.curious on Sep 5, 2016 in Jacob | 127 comments
On Friday, September 2nd, law officials discovered the remains of Jacob Wetterling on a farm in Paynesville, Minnesota. They were led there by Danny Heinrich, who was named a person of interest in Jacob’s case back on October 29, 2015 after being arrested on child pornography charges.
After nearly 27 years… it’s over.
I’ve dreamed about this day for years. What would the headlines say? What would the public’s response be? How would the people of St. Joseph react?
Now that it’s here… now that Jacob has finally been found… there is no joy… just deep and profound sadness for this 11 year old boy who touched all our hearts for so many years. Yes, we have answers and, in time, that will bring peace. But for now it all just feels very raw and real.
Truth be told, I’m a wreck.
I was drawn to write about Jacob’s case for reasons I’ll never fully understand. The more I learned, the more I cared. The more I cared, the more I craved answers. Like every other Minnesotan who lived through the horror of his abduction, I wanted to know what happened to Jacob. And with each passing moment, it felt like time and opportunities were slipping away. I thought if I could just get his story out there, people might start paying attention. Maybe they could even add details that might help. More than anything, I just didn’t want people to forget.
I published my first blog post about Jacob’s story on October 23, 2010, one day after the 21st anniversary of his abduction.
After three weeks, I wrapped up Jacob’s story and may never have come back to it if it wasn’t for an email I received on January 18, 2013… over two years later. It read:
Hello Joy – My name appears in your articles. I’m working to clear lots of wrong info out there about me. Are you curious or do you care…?
Thanks…. if so, send a tele#?
– Dan Rassier
I wasn’t sure if I should reply or not, but there was one thing I did know. Yes… I cared. So, I emailed Dan back and we agreed to meet at 6:30pm at the St. Cloud Library on Tuesday, January 29, 2013. Had it not been for Dan getting in touch with me and sharing his story, I likely would never have gotten back to blogging about Jacob. I published Dan’s story on February 23, 2013, and since then, I’ve blogged about little else.
This weekend, when I learned that Jacob had been found, I emailed Dan to let him know I was thinking of him. I wanted him to know that, for what it was worth, I had always believed him. I wished him and his family peace… they surely deserve it. He sent a very kind reply which meant a lot to me.
Over the past few days, I have been receiving emails, texts and phone calls from reporters all over the state, and even the country. I have declined all interviews out of respect for the Wetterlings, but there is one in particular who deserves a lot of credit in this amazing journey of discovery, and that is Esme Murphy from WCCO. She was the first person to really pay attention to what Jared and I were doing in Paynesville, and she contacted me shortly after I published my first blog post about the Paynesville attacks. It was October 22, 2013… the 24th anniversary of Jacob’s abduction. Not long after, Jared and I agreed to do an interview with Esme, which aired on May 14, 2014.
I’d also like to acknowledge the countless others who have played a major role in this journey. I have received thousands of comments and private messages on my blog, along with hundreds of phone calls and texts from people passing along tips or suggestions about the case. I diligently organized and passed them along to law enforcement, never knowing if one of them might turn out to be the “the piece” that solved the puzzle. Thank you to everyone who cared, got involved, and took the initiative to pass those tips along. Who knows what may have been helpful along the way.
But without question, the one person who absolutely made the difference in bringing Jacob home was Jared Scheierl. He was the 12 year old boy from Cold Spring who was abducted and assaulted just nine months before Jacob. When I decided to dig back into this story back in early 2013, I wanted to focus on people who had a direct connection to the case. One of the people I knew I wanted to interview was Jared. I found him through ancestry records and then contacted him through Facebook. I never in a million years thought he would reply to my message. To this day, I am so very grateful that he did.
Jared is one of the kindest and bravest people I know. He has become a good friend, and we have been through a lot together over the past three and a half years. When we first learned about the Paynesville attacks that took place in the late 1980s, it was Jared who willingly put himself out there, reaching out to victims and sharing his own story so that they might, in turn, be wiling to share their own. Without Jared, this story would never have unfolded the way it did. His enthusiasm and dogged determination were contagious. We found ourselves driven to find answers, not only for Jared and the Wetterlings, but also for all those young men who were never truly heard. The more we learned, the bigger it felt. Without knowing why, we were convinced that the Paynesville incidents were somehow important to the bigger picture.
In the end, it all came back to Paynesville… Jared’s hometown. The story started there, and it ended there. Jacob was found in Paynesville… a town just 15 miles up the road from me. Fifteen miles. He was buried in a spot that I have driven past countless times in my lifetime, never knowing that he was RIGHT THERE this whole time. Jacob and Jared were together in the same small town for the past 26 years.
How do you put words to that?
As hard as it is to give any credit to Danny Heinrich in this story, I…m just so incredibly grateful that, in the end, he did the right thing. Because of him, the healing can finally begin for the Wetterling family, and for the entire state. We have hurt, and hoped, and prayed alongside them for almost 27 years. Today, it’s finally over.
The Wetterlings have become like family to me, and I love them dearly. They are good, kind people who have changed the world because of their undying dedication to their missing son. Patty, especially, has worked tirelessly to fight for children’s rights, to educate parents, to train law enforcement, and to spread a message of love and hope that has resonated with us for all these 27 years. She did it for Jacob… Jacob’s Hope.
Today, I continue to pray for the Wetterlings. I’m sure there will be many more hard days to face in the weeks and months to come, but with answers, I hope they can finally start to grieve and heal. I will be forever grateful to them for believing in me.
#ThinkingJacob
#JacobsHope
Next time
For Jacob
127 Comments
1. Pamela Brown | September 5, 2016 at 2:32 pm
Joy,
Your fierce determination to help find answers about what happened to Jacob has been a great blessing to many of us who, like you, could not let this rest.
Thank you.
2. Sandy | September 5, 2016 at 2:32 pm
I’m in tears as I read this. So glad to see that Jacob is found and his family can begin to grieve as a normal family would when losing a loved one. To be able to properly lay him to rest.
I hope you continue the work you were meant to do! I believe there is more out there to find.
For now, Ty Joy, Ty Jared for all you have done, for keeping that light on!
3. Jeanne Kay Pauls | September 5, 2016 at 2:34 pm
I believe you played a VERY significant role in solving this case, Joy. I have followed your blog since day one. It caught my attention because my grandparents and all my relatives live in Paynesville and I spent a lot of time there in my younger years. Thank you so much for your effort and God bless you! Jeanne Kay Pauls
4. nec1est1tempus | September 5, 2016 at 2:37 pm
Joy, I truly believe that God used you as a tool to find the truth of what happened to Jacob. You could have turned away but you didn’t, no matter how hard it became for you or for those you were working with. God bless you, Dan, Jared, all of those who took the time to share any lead that helped and especially the Wetterlings, who have been in our hearts and minds since Jacob disappeared. I started reading your blog in 2013 and never sent a post but with tears running down my face (again,) I just thank you for doing what so many of us wish we could have done but couldn’t.
5. Bonnie | September 5, 2016 at 2:40 pm
<3 I have no words, just love <3
6. Joan f winter | September 5, 2016 at 2:48 pm
What a day! As I said I am overwhelmed with different emotions…God Bless the investigators… The beautiful family and caring individuals like you Joy….joan winter
.
7. Mari Peloquin | September 5, 2016 at 2:55 pm
My daughter called me at 7am Saturday to tell me there was breaking news; that Jacob had been found. Your blog was the first place I came. You have my condolences Joy. Thank you for bringing Jacob’s story to light for so many and for filling in so many missing pieces.
8. Mary | September 5, 2016 at 2:58 pm
GOD Bless Jared, Dan, Troy and all the other innocent victims subjected to Danny Heinrick.
9. Kathryn | September 5, 2016 at 3:08 pm
Joy, I believe that your diligence and dedication played an important role in pointing to Heinrich so that the authorities took a second look. When Jacob was abducted, my children were ages 8 and 6 and I ached for the Wetterling family and for Jacob, the boy with the sunny smile in his photos. I hoped and prayed that he would be found unharmed. Though it was not to be, over the years Jacob found his way into so many hearts. He is held in all of our hearts, along with his family, forever.
10. Marlins | September 5, 2016 at 3:18 pm
Joy-
YOU deserve credit for cracking this case. I firmly believe that If not for your diligent efforts to keep this case alive while it was as cold ice, the case would never have been solved. It was you who brought all the Paynesville cases to our attention, it was you who gave Dan Rasier the chance to finally tell his side of the story, it was you who challenged LEs theory’s of a person on foot, above all it was YOU who gave the wetterling family and the state of Minnesota the closure that we have prayed for. I cannot find the words to express how thankful I am to you. Thank you for never giving up and thank you for solving this case.
11. mypartyof7.com | September 5, 2016 at 3:23 pm
Words are not enough to show gratitude. I have followed your blog for some time. Jacob was the same age as me and like Jacob, I too grew up not far from St. Joseph, in a small MN town. I can still remember this like it was yesterday as it shook us to our core. It could have been any one of us. You truly are an angel sent to the Wetterling family to bring Jacob home. I can’t imagine how difficult these past couple days have been for all. Each night when I turn my porch light on, I will pray for all of you and for all the families who have suffered similar tragedies. Thank you for being the light in the darkness.
12. Sue | September 5, 2016 at 3:23 pm
Thank you for your work on this case. You shed light in a very dark place. I guess I dont understand feeling grateful to Danny Heinrich for leading authorities to Jacob’s grave because HE is the reason Jacob was there, so really no reason, nothing at all to be grateful towards him for.
God Bless you, Jared and the Wetterlings.
Rest in peace Jacob.
13. Brenda Schroeder-Miller | September 5, 2016 at 3:31 pm
You and Jared are some of the first people I thought of when I heard that Jacob had been found. I believe if not for you and your persistence, Joy and Jared and your absolute bravery grace and caring, Jacob would not have been found. Thank you for all you both have done and to the Wetterlings, thank you for changing the way we look at our kids and their safety. My porch light is on. Jacobs light is surrounding each and everyone of us, it is holding Patti and Jerri in his hands through this hard time and hopefully making it just a little bit lighter….
14. Kathleen | September 5, 2016 at 3:32 pm
Thank you, from the bottom of my (all of our )hearts. For doing all of this work, to help the Wetterling family, to finally find Jacob.
This has haunted me (all of us). I had younger brothers Jacob’s age & it scared the hell out of me. I have cried this weekend, just as everytime they brought attention to the anniversary each year.
I can’t put into words how much I respect & admire Patty. For all of these years, despite unimaginable pain, she chose hope, she chose love over hate. She fought so hard so kids all over the world are safe.
So did you!
I feel the same way about you, without you and your blog and hard work the last few years, there would still be no answers. So thank you , thank you. Please know how appreciated you are. You helped bring Jacob home.
I prayed so much for a better outcome. I always hoped.
I will never forget you, and Jacob and his family.
15. Marleen Gruneich | September 5, 2016 at 3:47 pm
I have never left a post on your blog before but I feel the need to share my thoughts. My heart breaks for the Wetterlings. It breaks for everyone who has followed Jacobs story all these years. We all had hope for him to come home and now that he’s been found it hasn’t brought the peace that I thought it would. We used to live in Willmar and our oldest son was 5 when we heard the news of Jacobs abduction and it hit so close to home. We have driven past the spot that they found him countless time on our way to St. Cloud. His story has touched me so deeply. I pray for the Wetterling family, they have lost Jacob all over again. Thank you Joy for working so hard on this blog. Your tireless digging for answers have helped bring Jacob home.
16. Anne | September 5, 2016 at 3:58 pm
After Danny Heinrich was arrested it seemed that pieces of the puzzle just kept falling into place and I wondered when he would talk. I’m glad he finally did one right thing but to take someone’s child is so cowardly. To sit on that terrible secret for all these years and quite literally torture a family and Jacob’s best friend is cruel and cowardly. Maybe now alot of people who were hurt and need answers will be able to get them. This is wrong in so many ways and has hurt so many people that it’s difficult to put into words but I hope it will lead to peace for the Wetterling family and everyone in the community who has been affected by this. Thank you Joy for everything you’ve done and for not giving up.
17. Sara | September 5, 2016 at 4:17 pm
Thank you for everything you did, Joy. I am 34, and was very worried we’d never know what happened even in my lifetime. I am so glad he is home now and the family can lay him to rest and grieve him properly.
18. maya | September 5, 2016 at 4:27 pm
may he rest in peace forever.
19. Rene | September 5, 2016 at 4:48 pm
Thank you Joy for bringing new life into this case. Your hard work led to all of this and I am grateful for what you have done. I am so sorry for the Wetterling’s and for Jacob. As a mother of an 11 year old I know how innocent they are and for his innocence to be ripped from him in such a tragic way is unbearable to me. I pray for peace for all of those affected by this tragedy. RIP – Jacob.
20. Sara | September 5, 2016 at 4:51 pm
Joy, thank you for digging into all of this. I am from Paynesville and the boys attacked were my sister’s age. As a kid, I don’t remember hearing about these attacks, neither do my parents. It is baffling to us how these stories were kept so quiet in a small town. Your work and Jared’s helped link them together and link them to the person responsible for it all. You played a big role in finding Jacob. I can’t believe he’s been in Paynesville this whole time. I, myself, have driven past him thousands of times over the last 26+ years. It breaks my heart. I am just so happy that the Wetterling’s finally have closure. God bless.
21. Jim Wookey | September 5, 2016 at 4:53 pm
Joy, Thank you for your diligent work on this story and working for Jacob. You are a special person! THANK YOU! JimW.
22. Amy | September 5, 2016 at 4:54 pm
Thank you Joy for your tireless work to help find answers for the victims of Paynesville, and of course, for Jacob and the Wetterlings. I also believe your research and blog were instrumental in leading to Heinrich’s arrest and ultimately finding Jacob. Thank you Jared for your bravery in sharing your story. I hope you are both able to find peace and a sense of closure in the days ahead. Thank you again!
23. Jenny | September 5, 2016 at 5:15 pm
As I think of the pain and heartache the Wetterlings are going through… It breaks my heart. For 27 years they did not know where their innocent child was. They could not hold him or touch him or see him. And now, after 27 years, they can. I cannot imagine the heartache they have endured through all of this. Their baby boy is home now… With them, where he should have been all along. No more wonder. Jacob is home.
24. Elizabeth | September 5, 2016 at 5:35 pm
I’m so thankful there can finally be justice for Jacob. And the Wetterlings can finally have closure.
25. Beth Roth | September 5, 2016 at 5:39 pm
Thanks you for all your hard work and determination. I truly thought we would never know what happened to Jacob. Without your diligent hard work, persistence and guts nobody would ever know. My heart aches for everyone involved- Jacobs family first and foremost of course, but also those who had been held under a microscope of suspicion. God bless you. Not the answer anybody truly wanted, but an answer was needed. Your caring and compassion comes beautifully through your writing. I started following you when you blogged about my favorite house on Longboat- which is just down he street from where I live now. I moved here from St. Cloud- so I read your Jacob stories with great interest. Great work, and thanks for sharing you gifts with all of us.
Beth- Longboat Key
26. My Inner Chick | September 5, 2016 at 6:05 pm
—Oh, Joy,
You are making a difference!!
Another Minnesotan
PS. is it ever truly over?
27. MKat | September 5, 2016 at 6:15 pm
Like others, I believe without you, there would be no answers.
28. Jan Redman | September 5, 2016 at 6:28 pm
Joy, I have always known you as a remarkable and immensely caring person who believes in people and spreads the hope. You did it for me, and you have done it for the Wetterlings and Minnesota. Bless you. Thank you. Jan
29. Nancy Drach | September 5, 2016 at 6:39 pm
My first son was a little over one when Jacob was taken. As a new mom, I had such pain for Jacob, his mom and dad, and his family and friends. When I travelled around the state for work, I would wonder, was he here? Who had him? Today I heard Patty sent out a message in response to those who wondered what they could do. Although I don’t know Jacob’s mom and dad, but somehow I was not surprised at their loving message to hug and play with your kids and more. I am devastated because I always wanted his family to get their wishes granted to have Jacob come home. But not this way. I wish so many blessings to all, especially Jared and all those young men who did speak up. This is a reminder for us adults, to listen and hear what our kids tell us. Its also a reminder to me that horrible things like this still happen to others, so I must use my sadness to help others.
30. Dave McLaughlin | September 5, 2016 at 6:59 pm
A useful application of new media in a way that all media should strive toward. Thank you Joy. You are Jacob’s hope.
31. Rebecca | September 5, 2016 at 7:01 pm
Have you ever seen the tv show cold case? I had a vision of Jacob standing in front of the Wetterlings house still 11 years old smiling, without saying words. His expression explains his thought, you never gave up on me mom and dad.
32. Janet G. | September 5, 2016 at 7:10 pm
I too believe you were very instrumental in this all. God bless you for following through it all. Our prayers go out to the Wetterlings.
33. Jon W | September 5, 2016 at 7:47 pm
Joy, you deserve a Pulitzer Prize or some kind of equivalent award for putting Jacob back in the spotlight and connecting the Paynesville attacks.Thank you for what you do. Hopefully Patty and Jerry will eventually find peace. We are Jacobs Hope.
34. Deb | September 5, 2016 at 7:51 pm
I never thought I would live to see this day! Thank you for all you have done.
35. Mary Finley | September 5, 2016 at 8:29 pm
Job well done, Joy!….Peace of the heart and mind to those who loved this beautiful boy. Rest in peace, dear Jacob. Your shining light lives on.
36. Theresa | September 5, 2016 at 8:44 pm
Thank you Joy, for all the blood, sweat, and tears ( not to mention mountain climbing) you put into helping the Wetterling family. You are a living example of John 15:13. May God bring you all comfort and peace.
37. MyAnn Morrow | September 5, 2016 at 9:08 pm
I have your read your post every time you sent out updates and had hoped and prayed this would turn out differently that jacob would some day walk back in the wetterlings door so sorry that is not how it ended my heart goes out to all and thank you for your consistant effort to write about this do you know if there will be a trial or any court action?
38. elisamarie111 | September 5, 2016 at 9:10 pm
Thank you~
39. Tom | September 5, 2016 at 9:45 pm
Joy, thank you for keeping Jacob’s story alive and also for your endless search for answers. Law enforcement knew about Jared and the Paynesville cases, but I think your inquiry into the case served as a catalyst for investigators to reexamine the connection between those cases and Jacob’s abduction, which in turn, helped all of us finally get some answers.
I remember watching your interview on “The Hunt” and admiring you for your steadfast belief that the case could still be solved, even after all of these years. I know your optimism gave me hope, and I’d like to think it also gave hope to the Wetterling family and the people involved with the investigation.
I hope you are proud of what you did to help solve this case, as I know all of Minnesota and the people who have followed Jacob’s case are proud of you. Thank you, Joy.
40. Julie M Painter | September 5, 2016 at 11:28 pm
Thank you Joy, and Jared, for continuing your dogged work on this case. God bless you!
41. Rick | September 5, 2016 at 11:49 pm
Joy, I was absolutely stunned to hear on national news this weekend that Jacob had been found. My heart aches for the Wetterling family that this form of resolution came to pass but at the same time maybe this source of closure will help in the long healing and mourning process ahead.To you, Joy and Jared, goes all the praise and accolades that one can bestow on two people. You have kept this story alive through sheer love, determination, grounbreaking investigative work and redirected the search where it needed to go. I have followed your blog since early on and truly felt when Danny Heinrich was arrested last October on child pornography charges that a break in this case would be forthcoming. I, like millions of others, was praying for a different outcome but such was not the case. But because of your unwavering efforts the Wetterlings can now bring Jacob home. You are the finest of people. Bless you, Joy.
42. Jean Lesteberg | September 6, 2016 at 12:19 am
Joy, I have waited to hear your ending to Jacob’s story. You have been a blessing to his family. You unending devotion to finding Jacob has been a blessing to us all. Thank you for continuing to dig and help uncover evidence to help the truth come out. God bless you and praying for all
43. Joan Del Rio | September 6, 2016 at 12:20 am
Joy … wow. I have so much respect and admiration for you and for Jared. This development NEVER would have happened without the work that the two of you did, without your courage. I’ll admit that I hadn’t read your blog until Saturday night. However, I started reading then and couldn’t stop until the sun came up on Sunday morning. I keep trying to imagine how you two must feel. Has it hit you yet that YOU did the tenacious work that put the pieces together that led to Jacob being found, at long last?
I wish I could put words to all that my heart feels. You’re right. It is still raw. I am disappointed that there isn’t any real sense of relief yet. Just a new sense of loss. But my head knows that it is a good, good thing that Jacob was finally found. My heart will catch up later, I hope. My oldest son is two months younger than Jacob and my second son is Trevor’s age. I was 8 months pregnant with my third son on Oct. 22, 1989. Like so many, many others this story was personal to me from Day 1. I have never simply “heard” about this story – I have “felt” every single development.
I know that hindsight is 20/20, but after watching what you uncovered and the power of your blog community I am frustrated that this didn’t happen years earlier. I have to keep reminding myself that the LEOs at the time had thousands of leads coming in and probably insufficient resources to address them. Because of Patty Wetterling’s work I hope and pray that there could never be another small town in America that experiences multiple attacks on children that are not thoroughly investigated. Never another place where children are hurt and nothing is done.
Thank you, Joy and Jared, and best wishes for peace in your hearts.
Joan
44. Patti Granning | September 6, 2016 at 2:12 am
Joy, you are amazing. Thank you!
45. Donavon Mickelson | September 6, 2016 at 2:12 am
Approximately 24 or 25 years ago our Department held a class in our City by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. The agent instructing the course said that if anyone wanted to sit down and discuss the Wetterlling Case. I jumped on it and invited him to my office. As we talked I told him that I was quite sure that the person who took Jacob was the same one who raped the young boy from Cold Spring just 9 or 10 months prior to that. He didn’t understand why I said that and I told him because of the description of Jareds abductor He said ” I don’t recall that” so I pulled out my file on the kidnapping and showed him what I meant. He said ” I’ll be darned”
Later on and over the years the area of the abduction along with other specifics started to change my thoughts on who might have done this terrible crime. Because of the location of the abduction where there was only one way in and out of the area the Wetterlings lived in, it seemed that someone along that route would be able to see the boys go into town and knowing they would be coming back that same route plus the TWO search warrants issued by a Judge lead me to believe that Dan Rassier was the man to be looked at and I was sold on that as a lot of people who read my posts know.
To Dan Rassier and to any and all of his friends, I want to make it known in this column that I humbly apologize for being so sold on the idea that he did it. I am VERY TICKLED and excited that the killer has been found out since I have been following this case and had my own personal file on this since the day it happened. I have two sons who were older than Jacob at that time and find it hard to imagine how the Wetterlings have been able to hold up as well as they have. I have met Patty in Madelia and Butterfield and in the Twin Cities and listened to her talks. She is very special but she is also a Mom.
I have enjoyed this site and all of the opinions and thoughts of the writers. I, along with tons of others appreciate what Joy has done to keep this on the minds of the public. These things need to be done and Joy took it upon herself to be the one to do this difficult job.
I have waited and hoped for a long time that this day would come where Jacob would be found. I always knew that this would be the outcome but at least there is some closure in the case. I knew there had to be some negotiating to find the body but with the long sentence awaiting this monster, I totally agree with the States decision to do what they did.
46. Julie V. | September 6, 2016 at 2:59 am
Joy, I have been praying for the Wetterlings, and for you, since hearing that they found Jacob. Thank you for what you have done, trying to help put the peices together. I had, as well as everyone else had, hoped that Jacob would be alive. I am sick to know that precious boy will be gone forever, but glad that the end is in sight. I will continue to be thankful for your blogging as well as finding Jacob. I’ll keep everyone in my prayers.
47. Brenda | September 6, 2016 at 8:22 am
Thank you, Joy. I have followed your blog for several years. It has always given me hope that they would find Jacob. So sorry that it ended so sadly. Paynesville is my home town and it was a good place to grow up. What an irony that I now live in Annandale and it is also a good town. Both towns were touched by the evil that is Danny Heinrich! Bless the Wetterlings and bring them peace. Thank you for keeping Jacob’s Hope alive.
48. Dale | September 6, 2016 at 8:27 am
The role you played in this was huge. You should be very proud of what you’ve done.
I’m originally from MN and now live in NYC — so I hadn’t heard news on the case for at least a decade. When the story made national news this weekend I started reading up on it again. It’s only when I checked Wikipedia that I first learned of your involvement. It’s really the only spot in the broader media that mentions it — to the point I was curious if it was actually true that a blogger helped authorities take a fresh look at the case in 2014. After a little more searching I discovered you did exist and that your blog is amazing. I spent the weekend reading it.
The NYC subway system has a great slogan “See Something. Say Something.” And you did just that. You saw something and you said something. And the world is a better place for it. Thank you.
Now I hope you start writing a great book on the story …
49. Lolly Randall | September 6, 2016 at 9:18 am
You are an amazing woman. Because you cared and followed your heart, Jacob will now rest in peace. There is no doubt that you were the reason he was found. Thank God for you!
50. Venessa | September 6, 2016 at 10:45 am
Thank you Joy for not letting us forget Jacob. I have read your blog from top to bottom and shared it with others. Thank you for not turning away. for fighting for justice, for answers we all craved.
I was nine when Jacob went missing. I hailed from a small Minnesota town who also rode bike on gravel roads and as a nine year old I couldn’t understand why this would happen. My childhood was never the same after that fateful day in October. Now I am a mom of an 8 year old boy and I cannot imagine how Patty has coped all these years. As a mom I cannot fathom losing my little boy I have nothing but respect and honor for Patty. Even in her grief she sends positive messages. Even in her darkest hour she takes the high road. She is teaching me how to be a better mom, a better person and I will never be the same.
51. Kay Johnson | September 6, 2016 at 11:18 am
Thank you for all you’ve done in helping tell Jared’s story as well as keeping the light on for Jacob. May every missing child have such champions!
52. Nancy Hellander Pung | September 6, 2016 at 12:24 pm
Joy,
Thank you for your incredible faithfulness, time, love and willingness to use your amazing gifts and strengths to help find Jacob. All of MN thanks you for the powerful connections you made to help solve this heartbreaking case that hit close to home for many of us. All along you “knew the answers would come with time and love.”
At the same time, it’s overwhelmingly sad as this was not the ending for which we had all hoped and prayed. Thank you for never giving up hope for finding Jacob, even after 27 years. This beautiful verse made me think of you and your tireless efforts to find Jacob.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13
Blessings,
Nancy
53. Gary | September 6, 2016 at 2:07 pm
Thank you Joy, I truly believe you help bring it into this for the Jacob’s family. I don’t think we would’ve found Jacob without your hard work and dedication to the story. God has used you in an amazing way. I have been following your blog since the beginning and so excited to see what you’re going to write about now, hopefully something joyful and peace. God bless you and Jacob’s family.
54. Theresa | September 6, 2016 at 3:29 pm
Well done, you really made a difference. Thank you
55. Mark M | September 6, 2016 at 3:30 pm
Thank you for you for being brave and enabling all of us to start to heal.
56. Dan Rassier | September 6, 2016 at 3:37 pm
As I’m learning about what happened to Jacob, I can only think of and express my sincere thoughts of concern for what Jacob’s family and friends are going through. Over time, we all became connected to Jacob’s dreams, hopes, and love. To just learn such a lovable young boy was taken and killed is just too overwhelming to bear alone. We all are supporting each other now and need to do so for the days & years to come.
Jacob became a symbol of hope & love for all children as well as adults. We will always have his memories with us. My thoughts and hopes go out to Jacob’s parents Patty and Jerry along with their family and friends. A special feeling goes out to Jacob’s friends who shared his world of laughter, fun, love, and joy. May Jacob forever remain in our hearts and thoughts and guide us down our road towards home.
57. Frank Bucaro | September 6, 2016 at 4:11 pm
Thank you Joy for keeping Jacob and his story alive after all those years, I have no doubt your influence and research helped close this case. We all prayed for a different outcome, but now Jacob may rest in peace. Blessings to Jacobs family, friends, and loved ones.
58. Mary H. | September 6, 2016 at 4:16 pm
Thank you for helping uncover the truth in this tragic situation. You and Jared are heroes. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
59. Tom Jones | September 6, 2016 at 4:43 pm
From all of Minnesota..Thank you. Our thoughts are with the family.
60. Derek | September 6, 2016 at 5:04 pm
You never did anything wrong Jacob. Never. You didn’t deserve this.
61. Jenny | September 6, 2016 at 6:58 pm
You did so much good in helping to bring this case to a close. And Jared did so much good in talking about something that is hard for anyone to talk about. The light you both brought to this story so many years later was a blessing.
And the Wetterlings have been strong and brave and I can’t imagine the hurt that they feel now that they finally know what happened. Closure means giving up the hope that they have been hanging on to for 27 years. That’s hard. But the fact that they’ve done so much for so many over these years is nothing short of a miracle. They are truly heroes and I am sure Jacob has watched over all of them for all of these years and was so proud.
62. Nancy | September 6, 2016 at 7:15 pm
Joy, I am so glad that you and Jared “stirred the pot”. I believe with all my heart that the two of you were instrumental in getting answers.
It was truly heartbreaking to listen to what happened to Jacob, but the truth, as awful as it was, is better than never knowing. I was a brand new Mom when Jacob was abducted and my now grown-up daughter will tell you I was “way too over protective”. It changed all of us in October of 1989. It changed us again today.
63. Joan Steffend Brandmeier | September 6, 2016 at 7:25 pm
Thank you, Joy, for listening and for loving and for keeping the light on.
64. Melissa Moser | September 6, 2016 at 8:47 pm
Thank you Joy! Without you, he would still be on the streets and the case would never be solved. You did more than 27 years worth of Law enforcement efforts. Thank you from a former Central MN Radio reporter.
65. Tim Schneider | September 6, 2016 at 9:27 pm
You are an amazing woman along with Jared and Dan. I have reread many of the comments related to Dan over the past few years. It is amazing how quickly we judge and forget. The courage you have all shown is remarkable.
66. Dan | September 6, 2016 at 9:53 pm
As I stated on the Websleuths blog, your work on this case shows that there is an important place in investigations for “amateurs”, since they are not bound by the same limitations as law enforcement (like time, for one) and can follow speculative leads that police often refuse to believe. It would help if detectives were more open to information provided by the public.
67. Dandy Mott | September 6, 2016 at 10:57 pm
Without you Joy, I don’t think they would have solved the case. I still have so many questions about this case, but I’m just glad Patty and her family have some closure.
68. Anne | September 6, 2016 at 11:58 pm
Jacob I am so sorry for what happened to you. You did nothing wrong. You were taken by a horrible cowardly man and he’s the one who is wrong, not you. You are brave and good. Just like the other boys this man preyed on and terrified, but you paid a terrible price for something that wasn’t your fault. You did nothing wrong. Jacob I wish you and your family peace and love now that you’re finally home. My sincerest condolences to the Wetterling family, and to you too Joy because today was so painful, and thank you Jared for bravely facing down an evil man. I wish you peace.
69. Stephanie | September 7, 2016 at 1:07 am
Thank you Joy. I found this blog just yesterday and I couldn’t stop reading. I was a 10 year old who lived all the way over in North Idaho when Jacob was taken and I remember the story on the news. I was always aware of my surroundings after being scared out of my mind after that evening. If it was ever getting dark I would run home as fast as I could when I was usually only two houses down from my own. I’ve never forgotten him and anytime I saw anything on a missing child or a child returned, I always thought of Jacob and wondered if he was ever found. I would look it up online and it was always the same sad news. Nothing. His mother became a face so familiar to me over the years because of her fight. The Wetterling’s are a bright light in a dark place. There is so much love focused on them right now from so many people/strangers, may the healing finally begin for everyone.
70. kiki | September 7, 2016 at 1:32 am
You are an amazing person, Joy!! May God bless you for all your days.
71. Donavon Mickelson | September 7, 2016 at 3:03 am
Thank God for computers, D.N.A., Joy for this site where people could share their thoughts on this and other similar cases. I have followed this case since the beginning with my own file on the case. I found it interesting that the case came to a head just a short time before a Radio Podcast was due to be aired and I don’t know if this put pressure on Law Enforcement or the Prosecutors but either way, I am extremely tickled by the fact that Jacob has been found and his killer locked away for life. I again want to hope that Dan Rassier can forgive all of us who were looking at him as a suspect. I had faith that Law Enforcement and a judge were correct in what they did by issuing a search warrant on the Rassier farm. Search Warrants are issued on the basis of probable cause and not guesses and somewhere mistakes were made that made Dan look like a top suspect. This case with being solved hopefully will help all of us thank Dan for all that he has gone through. I strongly support the agreement that was made to locate the body of Jacob and bring a lot of closure to the case. It has never left my mind. About 24 or 25 years ago when talking to a B.C.A. instructor, I told him that I strongly believed that Jacobs abductor and Jareds abduction were done by the same man and I showed him some notes from my files that seemed to convince him although we didn’t know the name of the suspect at that time.
72. SARA | September 7, 2016 at 3:18 am
Joy, it just takes one person to change the world. You were that change. Thankyou from the bottom of my heart for staying with it. I know at times it was rough on you. We all got frustrated looking for the answers, the pieces to a puzzle. My heart is so heavy today after learning about Jacobs last days and hours. Seeing all the lights on, my God, all the love, it is all so overwhelming. I have had a few good cries. I don’t know why monsters like Dan heinrich exist, I really don’t. It is all so terrifying. I pray that Gods love carries the wetterlings into a place of healing and peace. Thankyou Jared for all your strength and courage in the face of evil. Thankyou to everyone on this blog that cared enough to share and try to figure it all out. You are all wonderful people. God Bless everyone who opened their hearts. You all made a difference! I am proud of everyone. I love you Jacob, you did nothing wrong, and I am so very sorry and sad that this happened to you. I hope now you can rest in peace. You are home little man, finally, you are home.
73. Nathan Carson | September 7, 2016 at 3:32 am
I’ve been following your blog for years. Like you, I was haunted by this. I was around Jacob’s age when he was taken. I’m from Iowa, and around that time all the newspaper boy kidnappings were going on here. I remember being terrified. Jacob though, he was my age, and I looked a lot like him. I always remember seeing his face, and always wondered. It saddens me that the Wetterling family and friends have to open up unhealed scars. Joy, your journey into a mystery, was able to lead Jacob home. Jared, your bravery and quest for answers is awe inspiring, you, Jacob and all the victims are true heroes. Finally, Patty Wetterling; You may have lost your son, but know that you have more sons and daughters in this world because of the work you have done in the name of Jacob. Your relentless pursuit of educating the public has saved more lives then we will ever know. Jacob will never be forgotten.
74. David Goodman | September 7, 2016 at 3:37 am
Thank you Joy and Jared. You are both lights in a world of much darkness. As a parent, you’ve inspired me to be a better parent, person and to be more appreciative of what we have. The light you shine will hopefully inspire many and continue Jacob’s legacy.
75. Brent Johnson | September 7, 2016 at 6:55 am
I can’t say thank you enough for what you did. Jacob was a classmate of mine and this has haunted me from day one. You have helped put to rest an issue that has been lingering and plaguing central Minnesota for a long time.
I really hope the Wetterling family can find peace and closure now.
Thank you so very much!
76. Linda Waters | September 7, 2016 at 8:22 am
Thank you for all that you and Jared have done to help the Wetterlings find Jacob.
I’ve re-read almost all of the posts. It is uncanny how the early sketches, particularly the one made with the assistance of the female Tom Thumb employee, resemble Heinrich.
Am I correct that one of the cars that Dan R saw in this driveway was owned by Heinrich with Jacob likely in the front seat? And was the other car maybe Kevin and his then-girlfriend?
Can someone shed light on the “medical cop?” Did anyone ever figure out who that was?
77. David | September 7, 2016 at 8:36 am
Joy,
I began reading your blog one weekend a few years ago, about the house on Longboat Key. I live in Florida, but am from Minnesota. At the end of that amazing story, I noted the blog entry about Jacob. I didn’t have any interest in it, as the story was so dark, tangled, totally unresolved, and likely never to find closure. And the topic is abhorrent, the darkest and most twisted in human experience. But I gave in and started to read it, given your gifts for writing. Well, the story was riveting, and I found myself totally overwhelmed with the heartbreaking tragedy. I have since diligently kept up with the unfolding story, which has finally come to a crushing conclusion. In the midst of the sorrow and grief we all share, I want to thank you for pouring yourself into helping solve this horrible mystery. It takes great courage to go where this sad story has gone. It has now become part of our story, as Minnesotans. And as a father now, it has made me feel an abiding sense of loss, that the innocence and freedom children enjoy in the days of youth must now be carefully limited and guarded. Who are these ones amongst us who will silently prey on our children. Can we ever feel safe again?
Thank you for your enduring courage and resolve, for taking up Jacobs cause and not letting go.
78. Jo | September 7, 2016 at 9:27 am
For 27 years the Wetterlings, along with so many others wanted to know “where is Jacob”. Sadly we got the answer…we now know the who, what, when, and where…but for the life of me I will never be able to rationalize or understand the why. As another poster stated, knowing the truth is better than not knowing. I pray this cold harsh truth will somehow provide some comfort to the Wetterling family, as well as Jared. Beautifully wriiten piece Joy. It may be over, but certainly never forgotten. May Jacob Wetterling live on in our hearts and serve as an inspiration to all that is good and kind and loving in this world…
79. Ronald Wilkes | September 7, 2016 at 1:10 pm
Learn the entire Jacob Wetterling story through an eight (8) part investigative documentary series titled “In The Dark” by Madeleine Baran (Peabody Award Winning Reporter) of APM Reports (an American Public Media Group) on MPR Minnesota Public Radio.
Episode one (1) begins September 7, 2016
LINK: http://www.apmreports.org/story/2016/09/07/in-the-dark-1
80. Jenny | September 7, 2016 at 2:09 pm
Thank you, Joy and Jared. Thank you.
81. Melissa K | September 7, 2016 at 2:50 pm
When I stumbled upon Joy’s blog a couple years ago, I remember distinctly thinking “This is it. This woman is on to something. This is the beginning of the end.” There is NO doubt in my mind that Joy, Jared, the Paynesville victims, Dan Rassier, and the many other community members who came forward with their stories and details are the ones who put this puzzle together. If not for all of them and their persistence, I don’t think law enforcement would have found renewed interest or motivation to solve this case. If not for the fresh sets of eyes and new technologies, Jacob may have never come home. May he rest peacefully and his family and friends find healing. Always in our hearts, we are Jacob’s Hope.
82. Dori Moudry | September 7, 2016 at 4:02 pm
Thank you, Joy for your work on Jacob Wetterling’s disappearance and for making the connection with the assaults in Paynesville and Cold Spring. Without your writing, Danny Heinrich would not be in jail and Jacob’s parents still would not know what happened to their son. The written word still carries power!
Dori Moudry
Editor
Lakes Area Review
83. Jeni Wittrock | September 7, 2016 at 4:19 pm
I read your blog about Jacob a few years ago–within a year or two of when you posted first posted it. I was Jacob’s age in 1989, living in another small town in MN, and his disappearance held monumental importance in my childhood. Reading your blog affected me greatly; I talked to my friends about it and never forgot. You gave me hope that Jacob’s case would be solved. You were a catalyst to fInding Jacob and all that has happened since then. Yesterday, when I listened to MPR’s radio coverage of Danny Heinrich’s court appearance, I was hoping to hear mention of this blog–I knew your work was that “pivotal,” as Patty Wetterling, herself, said. Today I read an online Star Trib article (http://www.startribune.com/nightmarish-details-of-jacob-s-final-moments-at-last-revealed-to-torrent-of-grief-and-anger/392521711/) that quotes Patty saying just that. I just really wanted to say thank you for your part in bringing Jacob home. You, Jared (what a brave, incredible man!), and, of course, the Wetterling family, are inspirational to me. Your writing made a crucial difference. Thank you for sharing your brilliant ideas and deductions. Thank you for bringing to rest a little boy’s tragedy that has haunted our state since my childhood. I hope you will continue to write and bring light to dark places.
84. Eric Christensen | September 7, 2016 at 7:06 pm
Joy,
In 1989 I was a 17 year old growing up in Northern MN.
Jacob Wetterling. Who could ever forget?
I have long since moved away to another state but happened to be back in MN this past weekend when I heard about Jacob. The conversation soon turned to your efforts and blog and I was compelled to search it out and start at the beginning. Just Wow.
WOW.
I am not sure whether to celebrate or sob.
Or, both.
I am now 44 years old and I have 2 kids of my own. The Wetterling’s response to this tragedy has everything to do with bringing this dark conversation to the daylight. Awareness, precaution, education. My hats off to this amazing family.
I’d also like to thank Jared for his courage. He made himself open and vulnerable when he had every reason to do just the opposite….Incredible strength.
Thanks for your incredible efforts Joy.
85. Lynn Arbogast | September 7, 2016 at 10:09 pm
Many thanks to you, Jared, and Dan R. ! You wrote, investigated, asked questions, and published truth; Jared revealed a painful past and helped others by encouraging coming forward; and Dan needed justice for himself. Bless Dan!!! If not for him wanting truth… I really don’t think we would be here today! Danny is one very sick and broken person and never saw the NEED to clear this up! I hope one day we can see what happened to him to make him so broken as well- When you look at such broken folks- remember they were 2 or 3 or 4 once too and didn’t ask for their abuse either!
Many people have been touched by this incident and it shines a light on the fact that we really are all in Oneness- The Wetterlings are not grieving alone- we are grieving with them!
86. Sherry Ryba | September 8, 2016 at 11:20 am
One question I have is, what has Danny Heinrich been up to since he abducted Jacob? I find it a little hard to believe that he was able to go 27 years keeping his evil intentions in check somehow. Are there other victims out there? Are there other kids missing that could have been his victims?
We may never know. But it may be something for law enforcement to take a closer look at.
Sherry
87. nikki | September 8, 2016 at 1:30 pm
Thank you Joy to your tireless effort in bringing forth the facts, keeping it fresh, and doing all of the hard work required to put this amazing blog together. Patty is right…you and Jerod are the reason this case was solved. Thank you for having a hand in getting the Wetterling’s …and the rest of us answers after 27 years. Although it’s not the outcome we hoped, I pray everyone can find peace, in time. We ARE Jacob’s Hope.
88. Jon | September 8, 2016 at 2:14 pm
Living in Michigan, I was the same age as Jacob when he was abducted and remember my parents not letting us play outside after dark anymore. I also remember seeing his face on the “Have you seen me” mailers over the years and how said it was to see him still missing. These recent developments and his frozen in time picture brought all that back. Prayers for Jacob’s family and all those affected by this horrible tragedy.
89. Stephanie | September 8, 2016 at 3:01 pm
I have been wondering this as well. He may have not killed anyone else but very doubtful he just stopped completely just collecting pictures and whatnot online. I mean clearly he got away with murder, I’m sure he thought he could do anything he wanted, when he wanted. It’s sad and very scary.
90. Dan | September 8, 2016 at 4:14 pm
A very important question, Sherry. I find it amazing that there has been no mention of this, since his pattern was to kidnap and sexually assault a young boy regularly (a few weeks to a few months), and he carried a gun – which he eventually used to kill Jacob – as well as the fact that he showed no emotion or remorse at any time. He was so unemotional and lacking in guilt that he checked on Jacob’s body a year later and dug it up and moved it. This is the most serious type of psychopath: a sexual predator and also a murderer. That he could have stopped (himself) after killing Jacob is ludicrous. There has been no mention from any law enforcement about any other cases they are looking into other than the time frame of 1986-1989, which covers about a half dozen known victims, including Jared S.
91. DJ | September 8, 2016 at 5:14 pm
Joy, like a lot of others, I’ve spent the last couple days reading and re-reading your blog, to grasp all of the information, clues, missed clues, that finally brought Jacob home to his family. I am concerned and wondering about the other Paynesville victims- was there resolution in their cases? Are those men still searching for answers regarding what happened to them? Could any of the vehicles that had been described as part of their investigations be traced back to Heinrich? It just seems like there’s still a lot out there to answer regarding those other boys.
92. Missye Olson-Elm | September 8, 2016 at 5:55 pm
Thank you Joy for your part in solving this horrible mystery. I really question whether this case would have been solved without you and Jared’s involvement. All of Minnesota thanks you. This case has haunted so many of us. #Jacobshope
May the Wetterlings find peace.
Missye
93. Cheryl glad | September 8, 2016 at 9:17 pm
Thank you for your work. I am saddened to the core. I looked for Jacob in the fields surrounding our town along side many who hoped we would find him. I was so hoping for a happy ending. At least the family can bring him home.
94. Greg | September 8, 2016 at 11:23 pm
Thank you for your energy and commitment to this for the last three years. It was your work with Jared that blew more life into a sometimes dimly lit candle. We have seen the worst and best in humanity through the past week’s recent events. I was one year older than Jacob. Of course, I remember the day this happened and the uncertainty we experienced for so long. We changed how we lived our little lives 26 years ago. Now as a parent, the loss and events that transpired are gut-wrenching and tearful. Rage can ensue when thinking about how cold, careless and cruel one can be with another life. But I must say like so many others, the strength of the Wetterling family and their community has been so overwhelming and impressive. Like no other, it exemplifies that good will always prevail over evil no matter what circumstances. Thoughts and prayers to all those affected by these tragic events.
95. Anne | September 8, 2016 at 11:56 pm
Sherry,
That’s a really good point you bring up, and pretty unnerving. I wonder if law enforcement has done any checking into that.
96. Joan Del Rio | September 9, 2016 at 12:25 am
I’ve had the same thought regarding how unlikely it is that Heinrich simply stopped victimizing boys after Jacob. And IF there were suddenly no further reports of assaults after Jacob’s disappearance wouldn’t that in itself lead to suspicion that those local assaults and Jacob’s disappearance were related? I had the morning off so I drove to the abduction site and the site where Jacob was finally found to offer prayers and “talk” to Jacob. I had to do something tangible to honor that darling young boy that I’ve cared about so much for so long. It helped me. I wish that communities were organizing events where people could gather in his honor to celebrate this innocent child that we all grew to love. Does anyone know of anything in the works?
97. Mary | September 9, 2016 at 1:19 am
Thank you for your work, Joy. Please everyone, share the word that there are still cases of unsolved abductions of Minnesota children, including one near St. Joseph from 2002. Let’s take a cue from Joy’s work and not let that be okay. There are still families missing children and seeking answers. See the StarTrib op-ed piece http://www.startribune.com/justice-was-served-in-deal-that-finally-returned-jacob-wetterling-to-his-family/392660981/
98. Rebecca Hoffman | September 9, 2016 at 7:40 am
Joy: When a woman named Patty Wetterling describes you as “pivotal” in bringing her son home– well I cannot imagine a greater accomplishment in life. Thank you for bringing your heart and soul to the search. For being curious. And for being so intelligent about piecing this case together from a new lens. I join the world in being completely in awe of all that you have accomplished. You truly are a hero.
99. Dan | September 9, 2016 at 11:06 am
Joan Del Rio:
Your honoring of Jacob is touching, and I think much needed by everyone as a way of “closure”, if that is even possible.
Two of the major Minnesota sports teams are honoring Jacob today and tomorrow by wearing the number 11 on their jerseys as well as having other memorials in their stadiums. One is the Minnesota Twins, as this article shows:
http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2016/09/08/minnesota-twins-jacob-wetterling-patch/
Also, some other ideas being suggested online:
https://m.facebook.com/events/286715655032896/
http://www.kttc.com/story/33043438/2016/09/07/ideas-pouring-in-on-how-to-honor-jacob-wetterling
100. Dan | September 9, 2016 at 11:33 am
I should add, follow Twitter and you will find numerous groups honoring Jacob under the hashtags: #11forJacob and #JacobsHopeLives
101. Brian | September 9, 2016 at 3:03 pm
Thank you so much for all your work on this. I found your blog shortly after hearing Mr. Heinrich admit that he killed Jacob. I could not stop reading and have now read every one of your blog posts about Jacob. I was less than 5 years old when Jacob was abducted, but I remember hearing all about it while I grew up in a small town in southern Minnesota. The type of town where I had free reign to ride bike all over town, ride to the park, the pool, the ball fields, any of my friend’s houses, etc. I’m now 31 years old and married, with a one-year old son. I don’t want to be a helicopter parent and want to let him experience things on his own, but I have a feeling it’s going to be hard to draw that balance to allow him to do things on his own, while still protecting him.
Anyway, I’m so thankful for the work you’ve done to help the Wetterlings and all other victim’s families begin to heal. I hope there can be some resolution to the remaining Paynesville victims as well. You are a true hero.
102. doug | September 9, 2016 at 5:36 pm
Dear Jared,
You truly are the hero in this story. I’ve followed the story since1999,
2000 I think and I thought it would never be over. I hope all people
involved find peace in their hearts and that one day we all meet
in the same end of this road we call life, and that we get to experience
the relief of tasks accomplished but in different forms. In the mean
time I will continue praying for Jacob and for all those who ever cared
for him.
Best,
Dough
103. Jenny | September 9, 2016 at 8:43 pm
As much as I despise the man that did this to Jacob… I can’t help but wonder, was he a victim himself at a young age? What in the world happened to him to become such a cold blooded heartless perverted coward? I wonder if he too was an innocent boy that someone mistreated? Only God knows. And although he will not do time for the crime he committed against Jacob and his family, when he stands before God, he will be judged by the Almighty One.
104. Julie Jo Severson | September 10, 2016 at 11:05 am
Endless thank you, Joy.
105. Dan | September 10, 2016 at 12:57 pm
Those wondering about events and other links to remembering and honoring Jacob’s memory, as the Minnesota Twins did yesterday afternoon in their game against Cleveland, follow the JWRC on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/JWRCSafeKids
106. Kristine Thompson | September 11, 2016 at 12:26 pm
As a child abuse survivor, I thank you for all the work you did for Jacob, his family, for all of us. Best Regards…
107. Barb from Mpls. | September 11, 2016 at 3:10 pm
What you have done here is so tremendous, words are not enough to express thanks. I hope you continue to pursue your many gifts and talents, and will write about things good and bad (hard as it may be). People like you change the world. And Jared… I feel that his grace, bravery and honesty have caused hearts to grow all over the state of MN, and the country. Please let us know if you and Jared have PO boxes (in order to protect your privacy). I suspect that many people would love to send a personal note or token of gratitude to each of you. God bless.
108. Jennifer | September 11, 2016 at 4:43 pm
Finished reading your blogs. Thank you for your commitment, perseverance, and care!
109. Cindy Scott | September 11, 2016 at 5:28 pm
Joy,you were called to do this and you were instrumental in solving this case. Our oldest daughter is Jacob’s age.It affected us deeply when he was taken. I am in awe at your efforts! Thank you forever!
110. Bronte66 | September 11, 2016 at 5:39 pm
I was wondering if what was said on the podcast “The crime” is true? They interviewed some of the neighbors,and there was about 5 people that saw the boys going,and coming from Tom Thumb that night..The kids that lived right before you get to the abduction site,said that they were in their yard playing a game called “Tossing the corn”
that they had got from the field across the street from their house,and that they even threw it at the boys as they walked by and boys even threw some back at them..They said that they went inside right after the boys passed their house so they never heard or saw anything else that night.I have not read Heinrich’s full confession but the reporter on this podcast said that she was in the courtroom when he told the judge what happened to Jacob.She said that he admitted to shooting Jacob in the head after he had sexually molested him,and then went home for a couple of hrs.He then walked back with a shovel so that he could bury Jacob.He then said that the shovel was too small,and he could not dig a hole deep enough so he went to this construction site that was not far from where Jacob was murdered,and stole a bobcat and drove it down the street and into the field where he proceeded to dig a grave for Jacob..After he was finished he returned the bobcat and went home. if this is true then that is just beyond brazen behavior.It would also prove that he was not afraid of getting caught that he had finally crossed over to murder which usually happens with these sick psychopaths.
The two reporters seemed to truly care about the Wetterling family,and just like everyone else they wanted to help find Jacob,and bring him home so that his family,and friends could finally have the answers about that night,and to start the long process of healing their broken spirits..
111. Sherri | September 11, 2016 at 9:37 pm
Joy, through your writing, listening, inviting, you led another search, holding hands with many to once again scour the terrain in a great human chain looking for Jacob. Thank you for showing the difference one person can make!
112. Frelis Schulz | September 12, 2016 at 2:40 pm
thank you so much for the time and energy you put forth in helping to find Jacob. You are an angel… I wish you would help solve the Jonbenet Ramsey case…
113. Corky Gleason | September 12, 2016 at 11:11 pm
Without you, I don’t know if this would have come to an end. You were able to connect dots that the police could not or would not. My porch light has been on since Jacob was found. I am not sure if I will ever turn it off. Thank you.
114. Daniel | September 13, 2016 at 11:47 am
Being a male victim of child sexual abuse myself, although under different circumstances than poor Jacob, I can relate so much to what have been said and reported. I want to thank Joy for the incredible work you’ve done, but even more I want to thank Jared for the immense strength he has shown in speaking out – not only now but also back then. Trust me, that’s not an easy thing to do. My thoughts are with the Wetterling family and Jacob’s friends.
115. Dan Murlene Osburn | September 13, 2016 at 12:45 pm
Would love for you and Jared to write the book regarding this case. It is only because of both of your insistence to connect all the dots that Jacob is finally laid to rest by his family and friends.
My heart breaks for this family, been in my heart for almost 27 years.
116. Katie Estlie, St, Paul | September 13, 2016 at 4:09 pm
I found your blog years ago and was riveted by your discoveries. I knew at that time it would lead to answers. Thank you so much for taking that leap of faith to start writing. You have and are a true gift!
117. Lynn Arbogast | September 14, 2016 at 12:24 pm
I want to encourage all to listen to the blog post of MPR that is mentioned above. It’s very interesting to see what work or lack there of was done at the time. I believe that Jacob was killed so quickly that the outcome wouldn’t have beed different for him- just the family having closure. Also, Don’t know how many other boys were Danny’s victims after this. I commend your investigate work and writing! You and your team of Jared and Dan R. Did it!!! This was truly affected us all and we wit the Wetterlings family can have closure! Thank You!
118. Peg K. | September 14, 2016 at 3:56 pm
Joy,
I truly believe that the Lord was guiding you through all of this. What you did ultimately got everyone talking. It got Jared to open up and for the pieces of the puzzle to fall into place. I was 14 years old and living in southeast MN when Jacob was abducted. I remember seeing his face on the milk carton, billboard, newspapers–everywhere and like every Minnesotan, wondered what happened to him. No Minnesotan’s life was the same after that day. So much innocence was lost. I am filled with such sadness when I think of what that beautiful, innocent, smiling boy went through! I pray for peace for the Wetterlings, Jared, all the victims, and for you, Joy. You did an amazing thing, but I know your heart has a whole in it for what the outcome was. Jacob will not be forgotten and thru him all of our children have a safer future!
119. Jennifer | September 14, 2016 at 6:42 pm
Oh i think it is so great people are able to see your posts from the beginning and understand what a long investigative road this was for you. In the thick of it, your posts were so gripping. They made us all want answers more than ever before. Thank you again for your persistence and for handling this case with so much heart. I never doubted you would get to the bottom of it Joy. Thank you again to Jared for his courage. You made a difference Jared. Glad to see cbs recognize the work of both of you today. Nice mention. Can’t wait to see what you are inspired to do next.
120. Jennifer | September 14, 2016 at 6:44 pm
Also one more thing–sure would be nice for the sheriff’s office to issue a formal apology to Dan Rassier. Any word of that happening?
121. Anne | September 14, 2016 at 9:54 pm
Joy, after reading the interview with you and Jared it seems that there was alot more going on than we knew from your blog. Things that were very serious and as Jared indicated possibly life threatening. The two of you showed so much courage to continue with something like this. Not only that but you both were willing to talk with and listen to people who came forward with information and stories of their own as you discovered the Paynesville incidents. By being open and listening you and Jared learned more and I hope that is something law enforcement can take from this. The next time someone has something to tell them that person should be heard, not dismissed.
There are so many amazing people involved in all this and I think what Patty and Jerry Wetterling have done is going to save kids for generations, and hopefully prevent another Danny Heinrich from ever finding another little boy.
It still hurts me that Jacob thought he did something wrong. He was only busy being 11. How is that wrong? And Trevor and Aaron were hurt too and I hope they can find peace now that all of this has come to light finally. Joy what you and Jared did was incredible and brave really, beyond words and it’s touched so many people. Thank you both for what you’ve done and the difference you’ve made.
122. Margie Fort Worth TX | September 15, 2016 at 12:57 am
I have also followed your blogs for a long time. I remember reading and wondering and hoping if the Wetterling’s would ever have their young son back. It’s with tear filled eyes that I am so thankful to you and everyone who worked so hard for so long to make sure Jacob got to go home.
I’m in awe of all involved in such a miracle and my heart is with you all during this sad and heart wrenching time.
123. LGilmore | September 15, 2016 at 10:21 am
Joy, your work is superb. Thank you for all you have done.
To Jared, you are my hero. For speaking, for sharing your voice and allowing others to have a voice through you.
RIP Jacob. You are loved.
124. Sue | September 15, 2016 at 4:46 pm
I came across this bible verse today and thought it summed up what Jacob and Jared suffered through: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” – Genesis 50:20. God bless you Joy and Jared, and God bless the memory of Jacob Wetterling.
125. dankyle65 | September 16, 2016 at 11:52 pm
http://www.mprnews.org/story/2016/09/16/wetterling-memorial-public-invitation
Memorial on Sunday, Sept. 25th
126. Ronald Wilkes | October 27, 2016 at 1:20 pm
Joy, I have just finished listening to the final episode, 9 episode, of the APM Reports podcast documentary called, “In The Dark” regarding what went wrong in the Jacob Wetterling case.
Did you listen to the program? Since you did a lot of research on the Wetterling abduction mystery, I wonder, what is your opinion regarding the documentary produced by Samara Freemark and Natalie Jablonski and reported by the Peabody Award winner, Madeleine Baran?
127. Ryan | January 2, 2017 at 6:35 pm
I am so happy this case has been resolved even though it’s a sad ending. Jacob’s hope still lives in everyone of us everyday. It’s the hope that allows us to love each other and raise our children without fear. It’s ok to be happy. I feel so much sympathy for the Wetterling family, the Larson’s, Schreils, and Rassiers. All that they have been through but the fact that they had never given up hope. I will hope that they can find a cure for psychopathy someday. No child ever deserves the fate of Jacob Wetterling.