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May-12-2008 02:20
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Missing Daughter Shows up in Internet Porn, Family Uses YouTube to Find Her
Tim King Salem-News.comA Nevada mother turns to YouTube to locate her missing daughter.
 Police and federal agents are looking for convicted pedophile William Matthew Smolich and Angela Finger. Photo of Smolich: Boulder City Police. Photo of Angela courtesy: family |
(SALEM, Ore.) - Michelle and Patrick Finger say they aren't going to stop trying to locate their daughter. She became involved with a man who turns out to be a wanted, convicted pedophile. Sadly, the only sight they catch of her now shows up on Internet porno sites.
Michelle Finger says that two years ago, her daughter Angela worked at the Monte Carlo in Las Vegas as a cage cashier, which was looked at as a solid job that had already brought her two promotions.
"She worked there for a little under 2 years. She was bright and sweet, and was very close to her family. That all changed in a heartbeat."
She says that through MySpace, two days before Mothers day 2006, her daughter met a man who said his name was Craig Raether. He said he was 27, and that his parents were killed by a drunk driver. His story didn't add up for Angela's parents, but she was interested and they seemed to have little impact on her decision to begin spending time around the man who used the name Craig Raether
It wasn't long according to Michelle, before Angela began acting odd. "She started dressing like a street girl, and acted rude to us all the time. We were fighting a lot. Fathers day came, and she took her dad out to eat, and bowling. We started talking about her brother's upcoming wedding, and I told her we would take her, I didn't want Craig there. Thats the last time I saw her. They left shortly after that not to be seen or heard from for the next year."
Angela Finger's parents said it made them crazy, and they began digging up whatever information they could. They learned that the man had a shady past and that much of what he had told them was not true. Then at the age of 46, Angela Finger's mother Michelle had a heart attack.
"I came home from the hospital more determined than ever. I put up a fake myspace with his picture, and the words 'have you seen me?' I also put his picture on classmates.com, hoping to get a hit."
She also wrote to Craig Raether on Classmates, urging that he get in contact with her. She says that three weeks later she received a reply from the REAL Craig Raether.
"He had looked me up after my email on classmates, and wrote me. He told me that the guy with my daughter and impersonating him was a childhood friend named William Smolich. I was floored, but, I did know something was off from the begining."
She says that over the next two days, they combed the Internet and found porno sites with their daughter, and movies starring her.
"I was devastated. In the weeks that followed, we called the Boulder police, who are useless, and said if I was going to keep investigating to let them know, so they wouldn't waste their time, he is wanted there."
She says she does hold the Boulder City cops responsible for this, at least in part. "He is a sexual predator they let out to do this to our family, and we want our daughter home. As of the last week, I have heard nothing, but, found more sites where she is the pin up girl. Any and all help would be so greatly appreciated! If ANYONE has any private suggestions that could help, or any questions, please let me know."
William Matthew Smolich, who also uses the name Shawn Odow and several others, is 39-years old. He stands five foot eleven and weighs approximately 195 pounds. Smolich is a white male with blonde hair and brown eyes.
Police urges anyone who sees William Matthew Smolich to call 911 and not try to apprehend this individual yourself.
His prior convictions requiring registration are Attempted Sexual Assault on a Child by one in a position of trust (F4); and Sexual Contact-no consent (M1). If you have information regarding this individual contact the Boulder County Sheriff Office at (303) 441-4444. You can also contact the FBI at 702 636-5033.
Reach Michelle Finger through her YouTube page at: http://www.youtube.com/user/furbin8r
You can also visit the blog Angela's mother Michelle set up at: http://findangela.com/?q=node/1
This is the video posted by Angela's parents courtesy of YouTube: Youtube Failed to keep this video live
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Mark Bloether July 10, 2016 4:53 pm (Pacific time)
This Michelle is a liar and a nut job. I knew Angela and Will or Craig in Vegas and they told me the whole story. Mr. Smolich did NOT kidnap her, she begged him to let her go with him because she was trying to get away from MICHLLE FINGER. Michelle has lied to and scammed her family since she could walk and talk and bled her father to death of his money with her lies. Angel syas her mother is terribly afraid that the real truth will eventually come out about a HUGE secret she does not want anyone to know about. Michelle is an overbearing control freak wha controls Angela's life and HER MONEY !!! William Smolich has been arrested now for several years - how about taking this old news off of your site and put it to bed.
reba alberto October 21, 2011 6:08 pm (Pacific time)
to show you how much a liar she is and cant keep track of it, look at the posts from angelas mother.Angelas mother October 30, 2010 9:15 pm (Pacific time). in those post as i read she admits having brothers and most recent denies it when called out. i rest my case against this pile of garbage. like i said, her whole life is a lie and im surprised this paper editor didnt catch this and put a stop to her b.s.
reba alberto October 21, 2011 5:58 pm (Pacific time)
check out this link.http://cjaye57.wordpress.com/2009/05/15/missing-angela-finger-and-jessie-foster-cases/#comment-932. it tells another story.
Michele Finger July 7, 2011 1:25 am (Pacific time)
I know the whole story, my children know it, and it is not a "hate" for everyone. Its frustration for the way law enforcement reacts when missing person is not a minor. I dont have any brothers, so, I dont know who you are, but, isnt your name REBA? That is a girls name. No difference, do you thing Beth Halloway will ever give up?A mother doesnt, EVER! As for my parents, they died in a car accident in 1987. So, I have no idea who...or what...you are.
reba albert April 15, 2011 9:54 am (Pacific time)
just so you know michele , your father was on to you in the end and never wanted you to have a dime. if it was up to me and lar you wouldnt get anything. the good news is youll still be broke in a couple years and you wont have anyone to call and lie to for more money
reba albert April 15, 2011 9:51 am (Pacific time)
dannielle and michele, two of the same. the fbi just dont give out random info on what they think happened to anyone. i have numerous recorded phone calls of michele claiming to have had every disease known to man. her credibility is worthless. i also posses numerous money orders her dad wrote her because she used him for income and lied to him daily so her lazy husband and her fat blob self didnt have to work. michele was very controlling as a mother and wanted her kids to stay home and give her all the money they worked for so they wouldnt have to work ever. the kids eventually got smart and decided to move on. most of the things you people are writting arent fact at all and common sense dictates different. i dont know who runs this but they never seem to print what i write. im micheles brother, i know what goes on. her whole life is a lie.
Amazed February 9, 2011 2:29 pm (Pacific time)
WOW - This is a soap if I ever saw one. We have a man who is accused of things that there seems to be varying degress of truth about (according to Lisa who says she has access to his file) vs. the mother who seems to hate everyone, and accuses everyone that posts a comment that disagrees with her of being a Smolich or the father of Angela's husband. What has the internet turned these people into ?? What ever happened to innocent until proven guilty. He may very well be guilty of everything he is accused of but then again - he may not be. What is very suspicious though is that Angela's mother blames the Boulder Police, The alleged pedophile, his parents, Lisa and who knows whom else of doing everything wrong. I am curious to know if any of her allegations and very disturbing accusations (which could be considered slander, liable, etc. whatever applies) against Mr. Smolich, his parents, the Boulder Police and anyone else she seems to be defaming are even true. Does she even know these people or has she ever met any of them. My GOD woman - you seem to be blaming anyone and everyone. It is very hard for me to believe that a person could be missing this long against her oown will unless she wanted to stay away from her mother. I can say one thing with absolute clarity, if the mother is this vengeful and angry and controling outside of her family, I can only imagine what she is like within her own home. Maybe she drove her daughter away. Blaming other people of things that you think are true is a whole lot different that having actual proof. I hope your daughter does come back home and if this man is guilty, that he is punished but for you to keep blaming the police, the social worker, his parents etc. is absolutley insane and irresponsible. I would hope the mother gets some anger management counseling.
Tim Fasano On Tampa ABC WTSP News January 4, 2011 5:37 pm (Pacific time)
I shot Angela in a photo event in Phoenix AZ in April of 2007. I met her and her 'husband' Matthew at the time. They seemed like normal people to me. Angela told me her name as 'Angel' and she signed the model release as 'Angel Raether' which I later found out was false. I have to side on the mother on this one. Her daughter is a victim. The man she is with is using her and brainwashing her beyond anything Patty Hearst ever dreamed of.
dannielle November 5, 2010 7:59 pm (Pacific time)
well, I know first hand the fbi thinks he killed her, and I also know he is considered a predator and dangerous...Its patient confidentiality. So, what are you, a smolich???you had that info, Lisa, you could not share..THAT is illegal. You raised a predator pedophile, deal with it. And his ex wife married one....deal with it.
michele October 30, 2010 9:23 pm (Pacific time)
5 states say 25 to life...he did this to his family, no one else..he chose to blow them off and not see them..HIM!
Michele October 30, 2010 9:18 pm (Pacific time)
They CAN tell me she is ok, and ask her to call. You know nothing about the law. Though she was 22, it was bad circumstances, why do you think the FBI, Marshalls, and police are looking for her, and why all our DNA is in the missing person computer, as well as her dental records, and fingerprints. I got them all...and it was perfectly legal. Shows what you know..or dont. LOL
Angelas mother October 30, 2010 9:15 pm (Pacific time)
Angela, do not call my brothers. They are dilusional, Mark has 2 divorces, both nasty, one from a woman who has cancer no less. Randy pretends he is rich playboy, and lies to everyone he meets, and Larry...just crazy. dont get mixed up with that family..and Randy, you ass, quit using Rebas name, you beat her the way dad beat mom and me, and she was smart enough to leave. Mind your own business. Why do you think I dont tell you my phone number or where I moved to? you people are crazy!
Angelas Mother October 30, 2010 9:12 pm (Pacific time)
It has been 4 1/2 years since we have seen our precious daughter. I too, and privvy to information, that not only makes him a pervert, but, a child predator. I actually talked to some girls he met online, of course, all under 18 years old. He had asked each one of them at one time or another, if she wanted to be a model, and if she wanted to go with him. One had a 6 month old baby GIRL. All 5 had said no. My daughter really thought she was going to be a model, thats how he lured her. She thought I was against the modeling, when in fact, I knew something was insideous about Smolich. There are no lawsuits pending. Please. The guy is wanted in 5 states, and is wanted in a child sex ring in Arizona, because they found so much in the office space he used under his former childhood friends name. His mother, knew he was going to leave, and helped him. I believe is STILL halping him. Fact is, you dont just molest once, you keep on doing it. He did it to his daughter over years, not days. Thats by the mothers own admission. Lets face it, the cops in Colorado gave him leeway, dont know how to do their jobs (Jon-Benet comes to mind)and they are the ones who opened the door for him to prey on innocent girls and families. When backed into a wall, I believe they can and will be violent. Why on earth does Angela have a hunting license? She has never shot anything in her life. Its for Smolich, who cant get one, because he is a felon. FELON..get it? He ripped apart our family, he used and muddied the names of good people, and if it was as "light" as you say, why doesnt he come back and face the music. Bill is a master liar, and Im sure he can make himself any illness he wants, but, the one he cant control is prediting, and molesting. He wants little girls. Angela is small, and wanted enhancement, Bill said no, I like "A" cups. Gee, how many other real men with real relationships like A cups???? Then you get the grandfather talking about his granddaughters frilly underwear. apples dont fall far from that tree. Yes, she did leave willingly, with Craig Raether, who would get her into legit modeling, since she had already done 5 legit movies. he made her believe it, then he brainwashed her to think she was nothing, and had to model nude, and everything else. THAT was not our daughter, or how she was raised. Stuff like that didnt go on in our home. If anyone sues, it will be me, in fact Ill talk to a lawyer Monday. He took her away under false pretenses, lied to her, and alienated her from her family and friends. Yes, this is the guy we want to live next door or across the street from us. Get with the program. He is scum, a felon, a pervert..and happened to luck into a 6 figure a year job, if its true, which his boss saqid no one liked him, and he was odd, and they could tell he was a con artist. Nice references...and I heard it directly from the horses mouth..no hear say here!!!!
Lisa July 21, 2010 2:46 pm (Pacific time)
I am sorry I did not see this story earlier. For the record. I am looking at William Smolich's clinical files at this moment and know first hand information that none of you do. Not only does he NOT have a clinical diagnosis of pedophilia, he was shown under several lie detector tests to have not become arroused, and in fact was sickened by child porn. William was found, by the experts, to have made a serious lapse in judgement on several occasions with his step-daughter. His remorse brought him into a world of severe depression and thoughts of suicide. He had managed to stop the behavior on his own several years before he was arrested, however, the damage was done to his step-daughters psyche. More damage was done to his two children when he was removed from their lives abruptly and without the ability to see them for more than a year. Along with his 6 figure income. Their home, neighbors, friends and all that they knew was yanked from them. Things could have worked differently and still worked to fix William's ills. While his behavior was damaging, horrible and mostly unexplainable, it is known in the clinical world as incestuous behavior, not pedophilia. He has never been violent and is not considered a predator. His charges are failure to register. All of the above speculation and news article are a perpetuation of HUGE innaccuries. I must applaud those who see the article for what it is and do not take the internet as the final word. Yes, there is a lot more to the story, some law suits pending and a story being written of a troubled man who was sexually abused himself as a child, belittled by his father at every turn and alienated from his mother before there were laws against this. Many things have been said about the family of Angelia, of which I know nothing. I do however know that their daughter was an adult when she left and she left willingly. This does not mean that she was not cohersed to leave. But welcome the truth because now you have it. Thank you for your time.
reba April 1, 2010 9:18 am (Pacific time)
angela, if you ever want to talk to us or need help you know where to find micheles brothers. just call. brothers.
reba April 1, 2010 9:15 am (Pacific time)
shes an adult and the law states even the police cant tell her mom where shes at. its illegal.
wwjd May 18, 2009 6:44 am (Pacific time)
to drifter...catch Nancy Grace Thursday about Angela, and Americas most wanted Saturday for William Smolichs 15 seconds of shame. Took forever to do it.....but, his face will be plastered everywhere. he better hope no one hates him more than the Fingers do. There are 2 other shows they will be on next week as well..all slamming your son, and your family, and there isnt a darned thing you can do about it. Enjoy!
Drifter May 15, 2009 8:22 am (Pacific time)
To Follower - You sound like another no nothing but think they do kook accusing people of things. Yes she should let her parents know where she is (if she wants to) However - who knows what happened before she left - maybe they drove her away. No one is transparent if they do not want to be. However, some are ignorant and uninformed. If the shoe fits - wear it.
follower May 8, 2009 4:06 am (Pacific time)
Whether you eat, or sleep, or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God. Some of you havent been reading your bibles apparently. No, this is not a religious debate, but, it seems to me, that the ones who have something useful, or supportive to say, by all means should do so. The ones that want to boil the pot, and be ugly, why? Is there a reason you dont want a daughter found? Does it bother you her parents are looking for her? Does it bother you the newspaper takes an interest? How does this affect your life? It doesnt, unless you are Smolich or his dad, so, I would drop it if I were you. Youre as transparent as glass. I would think you would want your son to do the right thing, and Angela to call her parents. Thats my world, If it were my son, I would be begging him to pay his child support, man up, and face his consequences, I wouldnt belittling every chance I have 2 parents trying to find the daughter they love.Whether she is innocent or not, whether she knows, and left anyhow isnt the point, the point is, her parents are worried for her safety, they love her, they miss her, and common courtesy would dictate that she should let them know she is ok. Why would you want to stop that from happening? Maybe the Feds should check you out!
wwjd April 27, 2009 10:52 am (Pacific time)
Drifter.. If someone is dead, isnt your ramble about her like beating a dead horse. You sound like Smolichs father. Everyone but you has let it go. Geez, let her rest in peace.
wwjd April 20, 2009 7:02 am (Pacific time)
This has got to be the stupidest debate on the internet. She is missing, mother wants to find her, where is ANYONE getting her mother controlled her? The guy is a felon, end of story. Worried parents dont need to be debated. And is there PROOF her mother ever stole anything? Or is it Smolichs dad speading more manure? Ive looked high and low, and can find nothing on this except by him. Go play somewhere else, youre all ridiculous!
Drifter April 14, 2009 8:19 am (Pacific time)
Whoa - I guess I missed something in my quick read - did someone post that the girls mother, Michelle Finger, passed on ? Sorry to the family for their loss, if that is true. However, I can not seem to understand why she was so antagonistic to posters who questioned her, Smolich's family and was literally mad and aggressive to everyone. I also can not believe that there are people who would actually believe everything she said without knowing her or all of the facts. She appeared to have had a questionable past herelf but no one seems to question that. For her to blame the father or the family of her daughter's boy friend or anyone for that matter for what Smolich allegedly did is ridiculous. If the allegations about her daughter's boyfriend even are true, is she or anyone else really dumb enough to think that parents would purposely raise a child to be a pedophile or bank robber or any type of crminal ?? I am sorry that she can not find her daughter but does any one stop and think for a moment that maybe her daughter just got tired of her mother wanting to control her life and just left on her own ?? It amazes me how so many people would judge any individual that they do not know, based on facts they read on the internet that may be speculations or fabrications from an individual that has a questionable past herself. Geeez - only in America !!!
Drifter April 13, 2009 9:06 am (Pacific time)
I read a story somewher on the net about the questionalbe credability of the mother of Angela. Apparently she stole some money from a bank in Las Vegas etc. How do we know anything she has said is truthfull ? Also EddieBoy is right - Angela is over 21 and can go anywhere and be with anyone she wants. Just because her boyfriend is accused of being a pedophile has nothing to do with his relationship with Angela. Has anyone checked out the mother to see if she is telling the whole truth and nothing but the truth ?
Phantom March 23, 2009 9:04 am (Pacific time)
It never ceases to amaze me how quick people are to demonize a victim, in this, Angela Finger, and her mother as well. To the degree that you don't believe Ms. Finger is a victim, I most definitely do. I guess it's all in how you look at things -- and what kind of reality filter you're using to do so. "Of age" does not mean one cannot or is not a victim. Geez.
VJJB March 6, 2009 10:15 pm (Pacific time)
SHE WAS NOT in Las Vegas on her own, the family lived there. She had a good job at the Monte carlo. She gave everything up for a man who lied about everything from who he was, how old he was to god only knows what else. Her parents, or parent I understand is no longer looking for her since her mother passed on, most likely of a broken heart, the girl put her through hell. So did Smolichs father. Pat yourself on the back dude. Angela made her choices, whether she was coerced or not, obviously only cared about herself, and if that isnt the case, im sorry Angela, but, you ARE NOT all that attractive, you could NOT make Americas Next Top Model, you are a sleaze, and you let a felon/sex offender who destroyed his own family and children to destroy yours as well. Live with what you have done, and remember always.
RallySoob March 5, 2009 1:36 pm (Pacific time)
GrizzleeB May 13, 2008 4:55 pm (Pacific time) Tim, in response to your post. Her age has everything to do with it. If she were a minor she would not have the capacity to be able to consent going with this person. Since she is an adult, she DOES have the freedom of choice to do as she pleases. The story insinuates that she was somehow “spirited away” by this person. Unless this guy was clinically diagnosed as a pedophile (one who exclusively uses prepubescent children for gratification) then the description is off base. A convicted sex offender would be a more appropriate description and much more accurate. The fact that he formed a relationship with an adult does not fit the pedophile mold. The “Pedophile” label is thrown about all too freely by the general public and the media as well. It is not only incorrect, but is also inflammatory and is used to incite emotion. I have to question who took the “souped up” picture as well. She looks much younger in the photo shown on your story and if she is under 18 in that photo it could very well be seen as “child pornography” when scrutinized under current federal guidelines. I hold no love for this man or what he has done in the past. However he committed no crime in associating with her and thus far there has been no evidence presented that would show anyone that she is in any kind of danger. Yes, he should absolutely be hauled in and jailed for failure to register but there is no evidence shown thus far that he has committed any kind of crime as regards her. You mentioned the word “misled”. Yes, I think perhaps that some of the responders commenting here did feel misled. In my humblest of opinions misleading readership is what tabloids do. I expect a straight reporting of the facts when news is reported by a respectable organization such as yours, nothing more, nothing less. “Sexing up” the story title and posting a sexually provocative picture is more in tune with the tactics of National Enquirer or other like publications, not one like yours. I do very much hope that she turns up and contacts her parents. They must be suffering terribly. I have 3 children of my own and any parent would feel devastated by something like this. I suspect that my comments will likely be moderated and not posted. It would be nothing new when one disagrees. ------------------------------------- +1, the dude is twisted, needs to be in jail. But this story is misleading. I thought she was truly under age until I read the comments. It's sad, he probably has her hooked on some strong dope and she will most likely never come back from that. She should have never been in Vegas on her own and that's where the parent's fault comes in to play. But grizzlyB said it best in my opinion
Glendene Grant January 20, 2009 12:28 am (Pacific time)
My daughter, JESSIE FOSTER is an international endangered missing person. There are just way too many unanswered question in way too many missing persons cases. Please help us: http://www.jessiefoster.ca
eddyboy567 December 31, 2008 2:49 am (Pacific time)
Smolich's conviction has nothing to do with Angela. All that happened before he met her. He is still wanted by the authorities. AFIK no charges against him for running off with Angela
Robert P. September 19, 2008 7:50 am (Pacific time)
Thank you Elizabeth Sullivan. The girl is a Woman. Pedophile? Proof, anyone?
Michele finger August 31, 2008 9:55 pm (Pacific time)
http://mymilkcarton.org/home.php
Michele Finger June 27, 2008 1:39 pm (Pacific time)
There is a missing girl, Angelas age, from Las Vegas, right around the same time. Her name is Jessica Foster. Could these be related? http://www.jessiefoster.ca/
Jennifer Finger May 29, 2008 5:20 pm (Pacific time)
Whoever this is (and I have a good idea) are you crazy? Why would you stalk a woman who is looking for her daughter? So? She kept a deposit the bank erroniously made. They have rules. You have posted on many sites, my guess being so no one will help look for YOUR SON. I believe you are the foul mouthed, nasty Mr. Smolich, masquerading as patrick Clinger, since I doubt he has given furbin8r a passing thought from 4 months ago. From what I have read, Mrs. Finger got nasty when those were nasty to her, namely you, pretending to be other people. You raised a felonious pedophile, YOU did, no one else. Mrs. Finger is not to blame, the media is not to blame, YOU are. She merely wants to protect her daughter from the likes of your son and your family, and nothing about that is false. I personally know everything that she has said, as well as talked to others, and I came up with exactly the same thing, YOUR son is a WANTED pedophile, on the run from not only that, but, other crimes as well. He is wanted in 3 states. He is a manipulator, and a control freak, and people that have worked with him years ago all had nothing nice to say about him. On the other hand, Angela was an outgoing, sweet girl, whom everyone has something nice to say about, everyone liked her. From these 2 vastly different people, who would you say was the better parent here, the one who raised a lying pedophile, master manipulator, or the one who raised a decent, sweet, honest, hardworking, naive daughter? Do the math, buddy. Anyone can see she is probably being brainwashed, or she may want to get away from him and can't. Nobody knows the answer, because gutless pedophile won't yturn himself in and do the right thing, so one can assume everything he does is for his own benefit, which would include keeping Angela away from a determined mother who will apparently stop at nothing to assure her daughters safety. She is who I would want as a mother. Oh yeah, she is who I have for a mother. And I am PROUD of it..can your kids say the same?
Anonymous Researcher May 26, 2008 6:22 am (Pacific time)
Patrick Clinger of the ProBoards.com Staff asked this comment to be deleted, he did not place and was impersonated.
The management
GrizzleeB May 17, 2008 9:14 am (Pacific time)
Confused, there is no argument on my part. Just a statement of facts. I don't know what drives the feds to prosecute some and leave others, I have no idea where they draw the line. That said, there hasn't been any new news that I've seen regarding the search for Angela. Tim, is there anything new to report?
Confused May 16, 2008 8:57 pm (Pacific time)
So, if you are saying children can be clothed and it can still be considered child porn, what was Miley Cyrus' picture in Vanity Fair? She had nothing but a sheet, and a seductive pose. I'd say that classified as child porn. It seems to be very broad and I can't believe someone is actually arguing over it. keep on, it is funny, though.
GrizzleeB May 16, 2008 4:33 pm (Pacific time)
Tom, true, the other defendants have not pled out, Pierson agreed to turn state's evidence. Reading 18 USC 2252 and 2252A the feds are using a VERY broad interpretation of the statutes, but people are being prosecuted just the same. This is not the only case. There are others. If you wish, I can look up and cite the other cases as well.
tom May 16, 2008 10:13 am (Pacific time)
GrizzleeB, he pled out to a lesser charge because he did not want to fight it. i am obviously talking about the other defendants.
Hannah May 15, 2008 2:05 pm (Pacific time)
It may be conjecture on my part, and I apologize for that. However, since in EVERY state you have to show a legal state issued ID to get married, and he is using aliases not to be found, I think it is FAIRLY reasonable to assume he didn't do that. He'd be a fool to do that, and so far, he doesn't strike me as a fool. A wanted pedophile felon, yes, a fool, no.
GrizzleeB May 15, 2008 1:38 pm (Pacific time)
Tom, I do have my facts straight. Jeff Pierson pled guilty and was convicted by the USDOJ here is the link: http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/docs/BirminghamAL_030707.pdf Even though the "models" were clothed, the DOJ has interpreted 18 USC 2252 to include provocative poses of even clothed minors. There are several other cases that are similar. Tim, sorry for this thread going off topic. Getting back on topic, it would seem that with as many leads as have been showing up on the Internet that the Fingers' family might have at least something to go on in their quest to find Angela, are the leads being followed up? Please keep this story alive in your publication.
Tom May 15, 2008 12:45 pm (Pacific time)
GrizzleeB, you need to check you facts. She could be underage in that pic and it would not be considered child porn, per current laws. While I do not approve of children being posed in such images it is not illegal, as there is no nudity in the photo. The case you cite has not even gone to trial yet and legal annalists expect the men to be found innocent, as they technically did not break the law as it is written. Hence, unless they are convicted, which is doubtful, there is no current precedent on the books.
bee13a May 15, 2008 10:13 am (Pacific time)
Again, Hannah, another assumption. She may very well KNOW his true identity and be legally married. This whole story is conjecture about what this woman knows or does not know about the man she is with. It is also conjecture about whether or not she is being coerced. I hope this woman contacts her family so they don't have to continue to worry, but I don't think this sensationalized story has help anything.
Jen T May 14, 2008 11:36 pm (Pacific time)
I'm getting a kick out of all of the assumptions being made. I'm also getting a kick out of those assumptions being treated as fact. I realize this article states few facts to go on, but the statement "She is the meal ticket and he is obviously using her" made by worried1 really takes the cake. Can you prove any of this? The facts are: He is a convicted felon that is wanted by law enforcement, Angela is an adult (and capable of making her own decisions) and her parents are worried about her and want to know she is ok. I do feel for her parents, it must be frustrating to not hear from her when she is with someone they and others consider to be dangerous. This article was not the way to present the story, in my opinion, but that is only MY OPINION, I am not treating it as fact.
Hannah May 14, 2008 10:52 pm (Pacific time)
They can't be married, at least not legally. Raether is his alias, not Smolich's real name. I believe that is proof she has no idea who he really is.
Anonymous May 14, 2008 3:42 pm (Pacific time)
Also ... it appears they may be married now or she is going by his assumed name as the contact info posted on the blog is for: Angel Raether 6024883195 6340 s. Rural Road 118-148 Tempe, AZ 85283 USA
JennieB May 14, 2008 3:36 pm (Pacific time)
Editor: This person using the name JennieB is done here; no more posts and if you try we will flag your IP and you won't be able to visit at all. Mean spirited attacks against a mother looking for her daughter are cruel at best, and downright suspicious. If any law enforcement agencies are reading this, they probably agree that you do come across fairly clearly as the convict who is with this young woman.
Jeff May 14, 2008 1:10 pm (Pacific time)
Wow. People, get a grip. This is a story about what a mother is doing to find her daughter. From what I have read, everything in this story is taken from what the mother has actually said, it isn't rocket science. And the pictures can be found. I see absolutely nothing to suggest this mother is overbearing, manipulative, hateful, or controlling. I see a worried, loving mother who simply wants to find her daughter. The guy is a wanted felon, that is a fact. Whose to say he doesn't drag the young lady down with him? How do we know she isn't wanted because of something he has done, because she is with him? Granted, I am sure we don't have all the facts, but, I believe JennieB's post is over the top, and could quite possibly be Mr. Smolich himself. Can the IP of that post be traced? It sounds like someone upset that he is getting unwanted media attention. I don't know of too many people who would attack a worried mother for no good reason.
worried1 May 14, 2008 12:05 pm (Pacific time)
Wow, JennieB sounds like you have issues of your own. Unless you are personally involved, why would you make such accusations toward the girls parents ie, " wants nothing to do with these controlling, hateful, manipulative, and over bearing parents"? The parents are worried...The daughter did not know he was Willaim Smolich (a wanted felon)on the run from the police when she met him...she believed he was Craig Raether. Who is to say that once she found out who he really was, that he didn't decide to hold her against her will? She is the meal ticket and he is obviously using her. He has no way to earn money or a place to live....He is on the run. All the parents want is for her to tell them that she is alright. They are concerned for her well being. I would hope that if you were being held against your will (possibly a case of Stiockholm Syndrome) that you would be grateful no one gave up on finding you. He needs to be behind bars-he is a danger to children and now that he is on the run there is no tgelling what he is capable of.
JennieB May 14, 2008 7:54 am (Pacific time)
OK ... this story is so sensational in nature I would expect to see it in a tabloind. This LADY was and is an Adult. Judging from the way the parents are acting I, as a young lady, can see EXACTLY why she left them and wants nothing to do with these controlling, hateful, manipulative, and over bearing parents. Let her live her own life ... she is an adult and should not be harrassed by parents who need to come to the understanding that their child is an adult.
bee13a May 14, 2008 4:02 am (Pacific time)
Tim, I too worked for a newspaper for many years and the excuse that you were writing the story "at night" and therefore couldn't get information to make your story accurate or complete doesn't wash. The solution to that would be to wait until morning. A first year editor wouldn't let that slide by. Fact-checking used to be critical before a story was published, but I guess in the age of instant information, fact-checking takes a back seat to convenience.
Loretta Masters May 13, 2008 9:05 pm (Pacific time)
Is she of age or isn't she? Does it matter. The guy is wanted, the parents want to find their child, there will always be people sitting on either side of the fence. I think Tim King did a good job reporting, he was accurate by the mothers account, the goal is to catch a wanted criminal and to bring a young lady home, not make her a statistic. If she were to end up dead, then you all would be saying the media should have done more to help prevent this. Guess what? This is what they are doing. You would all feel terrible if something bad happened to her, or if Mr. Smolich got a hold of one of your children, you'd all cry "why wasn't I warned?" Well, you are. Take it for what it is, and don't try to pick it apart. People like "Dirty laundry" and the dirtier the better. I cannot believe people are upset because it was't some 8 year old girl who was kidnapped! Does her age make it any less important that she be found? Maybe if more parents did what this one is doing, the world may be a little safer.
GrizzleeB May 13, 2008 6:45 pm (Pacific time)
Yes, indeed Tim. We all want the same thing. Thank you for recognizing that.
GrizzleeB May 13, 2008 6:44 pm (Pacific time)
Thank you Michele, for posting. My comments are not posted toward you, but the style in which the story was presented. From reading the comments here I see I am not alone. My heart breaks for what you must be going through. I also share your concern for Angela. My disagreement isn't with you personally. You are doing everything humanly possible to find her and I commend you for that. I just feel that it could have been handled differently from a journalistic point of view. I wish only Godspeed for you and your family and a swift and safe return for Angela.
HoooHa May 13, 2008 6:42 pm (Pacific time)
This is all a bunch of hogwash.Shame on the journalist and on the family...concern yes, but just because she can be made up to look younger doesn't mean she is...the whole thing just looks like more rating grabbing media attention deprived BS. I would be more concerned as a parent about how many tattoo's she seems to be getting. She does not look like an innocent victim to me...More the rebellious type that was tired of being stiffled.
Tim King May 13, 2008 6:41 pm (Pacific time)
GrizzleeB, "souped up" was a bad choice of words on my part, I sense that we are all trying to do good.
GrizzleeB May 13, 2008 6:36 pm (Pacific time)
No offense taken Tim. I have no argument with you that this guy should be locked up. He is in violation of the law by failing to register. I also don't have any argument that this story should be in the news as an effort to find her. What I have disagreed with is the style used in order to do it. Yes, we are dealing with facts. So in the interest of presenting facts, the DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) defines pedophilia as a sexual fixation on pre-pubescent children. Unless he was clinically evaluated to be a pedophile the description would be inaccurate if he had any kind of sexual interest in an adult. The description is only fact if he was clinically diagnosed by a qualified clinician, if he was not then it is only a label intended to incite. My other comment simply said that she looked much younger in the picture in your article than she does in others seen in other places posted by her family including the videos shown by her folks. Simply put my comment meant that IF that photo was taken when she was under 18, clothed or not, it could be scrutinized under federal CP guidelines. Clothed or not makes no difference. To show you that I am not simply whistling “Dixie” I invite you to read this article regarding a recent federal case: http://www.news.com/Federal-case-may-redefine-child-porn/2100-1030_3-6139524.html As seen in this case, a minor does not have to be unclothed for a provocative pose to draw the attention of the DOJ. That’s just America today, and another fact. I will admit that perhaps my reference to this in my previous post was poorly worded and may have been misunderstood. We (the readership) have no way of knowing how recently the story photo was taken. You yourself said the photo was “souped up”. For what purpose? One can only judge by looking at photos known to be more recently where she looks older and looking at the one in the story where she looks much younger than others in related stories/videos on the Internet. I want this man locked up as quickly as the next person. I want her home to her family as quickly and as safely as anyone else. My criticism was not intended to offend you, but instead to express a bit of displeasure in the methods used in the story to “get attention”. If I have somehow overstepped my bounds then I offer an apology for any offense. I, like you, am interested in FACTS. My comments about CP were only in the interest of cautioning, not an accusation.
Bev Henry May 13, 2008 6:25 pm (Pacific time)
Hey Mr. King, I think you angered a bunch of people who were trying to look at something they shouldn't be driven to look for. For what it is worth, I think you clearly allowed everyone to know that she is an adult in the second paragraph, and apparently these people would just think it was hunky dory if their kid was in the company of one of these guys, I sure wouldn't, good job on an important story.
Elizabeth Sullivan May 13, 2008 6:14 pm (Pacific time)
Your use of the word "pedophile" offends me, Mr. King, because based on the information you elected to include in your story, I have no way of knowing whether it is accurate and as I said earlier, I suspect that the word was used precisely for the shock value you KNEW it would carry. That is disingenuous. These people, while understandably concerned, grieving, and anxious, are presenting their daughter as though she were the underage victim of a kidnapping by a child predator, and you are helping them do it. That isn't journalism, that's agenda-driven spin.
Jen T May 13, 2008 6:03 pm (Pacific time)
What exactly is he currently wanted for? He has prior convictions, but that would also mean he has served his time for those crimes, right?
Michele Finger May 13, 2008 5:44 pm (Pacific time)
And for the record, Mr. King never once alluded that Angie was a minor. Most people know you have to be at least 21 to work in any casino, especially as a cage cashier.
Michele Finger May 13, 2008 5:40 pm (Pacific time)
In response, I would like to say that this picture of Angela was taken by William Smolich, when he first started having her pose. I found it on a website, and to me, she looked drugged...and young, thats why I chose it. In many pictures he has taken, she looks very young, which, of course is a concern. She may be "legal" but, she can also look 12 if made up right. To me, its not a matter of age, its a matter that I know my child, and no way would she stop talking to all of us for 2 years unless she was being brainwashed or worse. Like any mother, I want to find her, I want to know she is safe, and making informed choices. Smolich is wanted in Colorado, and the website does say "failure to register", but, obviously, there are more charges. He is also wanted on charges in Arizona (Mesa) and Nevada (Las Vegas) and those are not only failure to register charges. He is wanted, and the bottom line is everything he does is illegal and insideous. I have gotten mail from people that know him well, enough to know he shouldnt be around decent people. I dont only worry for my daughter, I worry for other girls who have and will fall prey to him as well. Many pictures he has taken of other ladies are questionable as well. The first thing the police asked me is if my daughter can "look real young". Of course, the answer was yes, which obviously means he would use her, and still had a penchant for young girls. You can agree or disagree or add conjecture anywhere you wish, the bottom line is she is MY daughter, and I dont feel she is safe. She is with a wanted man, who isnt only a pedophile, but, a liar, a manipulator, and very likely a sociopath. I have spoken to him, I have seen his work first hand, these arent just "speculations" on my part. My daughter doesnt know the magnatude of all this, and I dont want to end up burying her at the end. I will do what it takes. Whether you agree grizzlee, or not.
bee13a May 13, 2008 5:36 pm (Pacific time)
Mr. King, you seem to be very defensive of your shabby coverage of this story. Wonder why?
Assuming, since she worked in a casino she was over 18, yet you fail to mention her age in the story. Though you mention the fact that he is a pedophile several times, thus wanting readers to infer that she was a minor.
You mention that he is wanted by Boulder police, but fail to mention why? Maybe a bench warrant for a traffic ticket?
I feel for the parents who are worried about their daughter, but your coverage was shoddy, at best, inflammatory at worst.
Shame on you, a "TRUE" journalist would have known better.
I am defensive when attacked. I have been a reporter for twenty years, I spent last winter covering the war in Afghanistan. I will say it again; according to police records the man is a pedophile. If the Boulder City Police maintained their Website then the information would have been current, the story was written at night and good luck to you, me or anyone else who needs information from them. I have plenty of first hand experience with them also, having worked for the NBC and FOX stations in Las Vegas for five years.
I never connected the dots the way you did bee13a. With the problems in the world being what they are, I completely fail to understand what is so frustrating about this. Funny, I have over a thousand published articles and I have produced hundreds of TV reports around the world, and now I learn that I am not a "true" journalist, who would have thought?
At any rate, I am also a parent, and I could feel this mother's pain in what she wrote.
Tim King May 13, 2008 5:05 pm (Pacific time)
"Child pornography”" because she looks young? She is clothed, that has to be the most off base thing shared today, you are really working at it. I'm sorry if you feel pedophile is used wrongly here, but he is one, and we deal in fact, he has been convicted and that means he is one and I'm sorry if that somehow offends you, I don't know why.
GrizzleeB May 13, 2008 4:55 pm (Pacific time)
Tim, in response to your post. Her age has everything to do with it. If she were a minor she would not have the capacity to be able to consent going with this person. Since she is an adult, she DOES have the freedom of choice to do as she pleases. The story insinuates that she was somehow “spirited away” by this person. Unless this guy was clinically diagnosed as a pedophile (one who exclusively uses prepubescent children for gratification) then the description is off base. A convicted sex offender would be a more appropriate description and much more accurate. The fact that he formed a relationship with an adult does not fit the pedophile mold. The “Pedophile” label is thrown about all too freely by the general public and the media as well. It is not only incorrect, but is also inflammatory and is used to incite emotion. I have to question who took the “souped up” picture as well. She looks much younger in the photo shown on your story and if she is under 18 in that photo it could very well be seen as “child pornography” when scrutinized under current federal guidelines. I hold no love for this man or what he has done in the past. However he committed no crime in associating with her and thus far there has been no evidence presented that would show anyone that she is in any kind of danger. Yes, he should absolutely be hauled in and jailed for failure to register but there is no evidence shown thus far that he has committed any kind of crime as regards her. You mentioned the word “misled”. Yes, I think perhaps that some of the responders commenting here did feel misled. In my humblest of opinions misleading readership is what tabloids do. I expect a straight reporting of the facts when news is reported by a respectable organization such as yours, nothing more, nothing less. “Sexing up” the story title and posting a sexually provocative picture is more in tune with the tactics of National Enquirer or other like publications, not one like yours. I do very much hope that she turns up and contacts her parents. They must be suffering terribly. I have 3 children of my own and any parent would feel devastated by something like this. I suspect that my comments will likely be moderated and not posted. It would be nothing new when one disagrees.
Laura May 13, 2008 12:10 pm (Pacific time)
She is over 18 and not mentaly challanged there for not a child, I can feel for the parents there aduld child over 18 chose it seems to go with someone, and maybe or maybe not forsed to do porn well, I am sorry for them and her if it was forsed. but to make this guy out to be the possiable bad guy to her and i am saying only her we don't know. He may of been scum in the past to get the title of pedifile and rightly so but pedifile's like children pre puberty. as stated in the first post this woman has every right,AS AN ADULT
Tim King May 13, 2008 8:41 am (Pacific time)
This is Tim King from Salem-News.com. Can somebody explain what their concern is over the person's age? I did not state that she was a child, it is a danger for anyone to be in the company of a wanted pedophile, and the souped up picture and story title caught many people's attention and the story is getting significant traffic. Because the woman is not under 18, this magical "thing" where Amber Alerts and screaming police cars suddenly come to life to save the "child" doesn't happen. It is indicative of how seriously we take the wrong things, is it about technicalities or a woman's safety? That would be my question to you, and even if you feel misled at least you read the story and are now more aware, in case she turns up.
GrizzleeB May 13, 2008 7:40 am (Pacific time)
Joe G, While I agree completely that this man should be taken back off the street the rest of your comment is pure speculation. Jess, when does a person become an adult? What yard stick do you use? If a 23 year old is not an adult then your comment would seem to insinuate that she was somehow mentally incapacitated, again, implying something that is not stated in the story. Let's keep it real folks. There is more to this story than meets the eye.
GrizzleeB May 13, 2008 7:35 am (Pacific time)
Add: What is more disconcerting is the photo posted in the news article of this young lady. If that is a family photo kept by the parents, it seems to be a younger Angela. If she is dressed like that WHAT are they thinking? I sympathize with the parents that they've lost track of their daughter but one can't help but feel there is a bit more to this story than meets the eye.
GrizzleeB May 13, 2008 7:31 am (Pacific time)
Indeed, Elizabeth, if one digs a little deeper into the story it appears this woman is 22-23 years old. She's hardly a "child" and there is no evidence that she didn't leave of her own accord. The news coverage has been IMO intentionally inflammatory and somewhat misleading. This has been made to imply that there was somehow some crime committed in her disappearance when there is no indication at all that she didn't leave entirely of her own accord. One more reason ot doubt the credibility of journalists.
Jon Gialombardo May 13, 2008 12:01 am (Pacific time)
She was 22 when she disappeared with him from what I read. He is a pedophile, the young girl he perpetrated was 9. He is also wanted in 2 other states, and has a multitude of charges not mentioned. The parents seem to be only parents wanting to find their daughter. He needs to be taken off the street. He is using this young lady for his own agenda and who knows if he is using her to lure young girls into trusting him for his own sick purposes. It is not merely a choice. From everything that I have read, she did not know who he was. I hope they find them soon, it must be terrible for the parents.
Jess Hudson May 12, 2008 11:55 pm (Pacific time)
Unless you have children of your own, you cannot even begin to understand how these people feel. They love their child. Their child was literally tricked by this man. She was tricked, then led to a life that she probably would have never done otherwise. Would your parents try to find you if you were in this young ladys shoes? Would you try to find your daughter? I am 53 years old. I had a daughter who met a man online 5 years ago. Turns out he was wanted for robbery. They said he was non-violent. Today, my daughter is buried in massachusettes by where she was born because I listened to everyone else and did nothing. To this girls mother I say: dont listen to anyone, they are not you. do what your heart tells you to. Do what it takes so your daughter will be happy, healthy and safe. She was 22 I read when she disappeared, while that is legally an adult, it doesn't mean she isn't still a child. My daughter would be 28 Friday. I don't get a second chance. Good luck to you, and I will be praying for Angela's safe return. Jess
Kunderemp Ratnawati Hardjito May 12, 2008 9:56 pm (Pacific time)
How old was she when she disappeared?
GrizzleeB May 12, 2008 8:48 pm (Pacific time)
Is this a kidnapping? The coverage sure implies that it was. If the guy is a clinical pedophile, what's he doing wiht an adult?
Elizabeth Sullivan May 12, 2008 8:23 pm (Pacific time)
This is a sad story and I sympathize with the parents, butI also think it's very misleading, I hope not deliberately so: If the girl was working in a casino prior to her involvement with this man, she had to have been over 18 and obviously is even older now. This article makes it sound like this man, dubious though he may be, abducted a child. At least with respect to the young woman in this story, he did not. You really need not to confuse the issue here. As distressing as it is, this woman has every right,AS AN ADULT, to make her own poor choices. I'm not convinced that the alleged "predator's" involvment with her is in anyway illegal. I also don't know that the man is a pedophile:This article doesn't say that his victim(s) were prepubescent. I'm not defending him in anyway, but it is disingenuous to use such an inflammatory word merely to grab attention and enrage the reader. Your article seems to be designed to do both.
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