The Theories: What You Think Happened

[Lorakai]

Here is a good place to post and comment on theories of what might have happened to missing 5 year old Haleigh Cummings. A theory in this case is used as a hypothesis assumed for the sake of argument or investigation. It is an unproved assumption.

I'll start off this thread with my own theory to hopefully get things going here... note how I'm not using the real names of individuals.

ok,.. I'm gonna throw what I think happened to HC as of right now anyway this theory could change of course, for now this is all just pure speculation, and none of which is supported by fact. This is just a theory...

RC came home from work to find MC passed out, the kitchen light on dishes in the sink, back door wide open. This would explain why MC does not know where they were sleeping, what HC was wearing, what she got up for, or what time she actually awoke and why the pink shirt was the last thing she remembered HC wearing. HC prob got herself ready for bed and MC last saw her earlier in the day.

Anyway, RC comes home, get's mad and wakes MC, starting a fight with her. Yelling ensues, jr. stays put on the bed but HC runs out of the house at some point through the backdoor that was already open.

HC is scared and running on adrenaline? maybe runs looking for help but at 3:00am, the streets are dark and desolate, but facing whats back at home is scarier? Maybe she thinks she can find her mothers house? This could possibly explain the K9 track which takes a loop and last lands at the railroad crossing? It's unknown in my mind what could have happened there next.

RC and MC did not realize that HC had run out of the house until it was too late. Why not just say then that you had a fight and your daughter who has now run out of the house? Because, theoretically you know if someone else finds her and delivers her to the police station, next they will be knocking at your door, there will be an official report.

So you call 911 to give the neglect validation. You hang up on them twice, and give refuse to give them information about your child, or the conditions of your home. DCF would get involved and your whole life would be turned upside down. You've lost her before, if you lose her again you lose your children, and child support money. CS would win, and you would lose everything, so you say someone took her and create a story that makes you and your gf look innocent, appropriate sleeping arrangements, times the kids go to bed etc.

[d00mzday]

My first post here.

I like your theory Lorakai, mine is similar.

- RC goes off to work.
- MC invites some people over.
- MC sends children to there room at some point. HC is last seen wearing pink top.
- MC props door open. I am not sure why in cool weather, maybe to smoke a joint inside house?
- She leaves the door open or shuts it lazyman way by slamming it, both ways the door stays open.
- MC passes out in diffrent location than children.
- HC awakes at some point possibly pee'd the bed? she changed her top and feeling slightly embarased or maybe she has been yelled at before she pushed top into dirty basket.
- HC during this point maybe see's door open and thinks MC is not in bed so she wonders out to the backyard. RC does not see MC then proceeds back to house but hears noise and wonders off that direction thinking it is MC.
- HC becomes lost, and ends up at railroad track where someone picks her up?
- MC wakes up, she notices HC missing.
- MC calls RC informs him child is missing. MC tells RC at some point she might of possibly left door open? It leaves RC enraged at MC.
- RC worried about the bio mother and hows she is along with court note of neglect, child services breathing down neck, and now a police documented case panics.
- RC and MC twist the truth a little hoping child will be found soon. Except the twist is someone picked her up at railway tracks.

pardon spelling and typos please.

[d00mzday]

Correction here.

- HC during this point maybe see's door open and thinks MC is not in bed so she wonders out to the backyard. (should be HC)RC does not see MC then proceeds back to house but hears noise and wonders off that direction thinking it is MC.

sorry.

I hope this little girl turns up safe.

[forensicfan]

I think a previous tennant...possibly an unregistered/uncaught SO....let himself in with a key and took Haleigh, after surveillance for a few days.

I feel 'he' knew there was a little girl living there and he wanted her.

Imo, he chocked the back screen-door opened for a faster getaway.

I believe when Misty woke up to go to the bathroom she saw the light on in the kitchen. Imo, she left it on by accident at bedtime.

I think when she realized Haleigh was gone....she took a few minutes to search every closet, room, bed and pile of blankets. Maybe she even searched twice. IMO, she couldn't believe her eyes for a few minutes.

I think she then tried to call Ron who saw who was calling but didn't answer because he was just about home.

I think Ron searched in disbelief a few minutes also and then told Misty to call 911

IMHO Haleigh was asleep when she was carried out of the house and never knew what happened until the SO got her away from the home.

IMHO I don't believe age, experience with child care, intelligence or lack thereof, smoking or previous run-ins with LE have anything to do with this crime.

I second your theory.

[Susie419]

Crystal's boyfriend pays the bills in their household. They have their own children and family, but there's Crystals kids who come over and visit every few weeks. He is resentful, and also both are not happy with conditions of custody, Crystal is not bonded with Haleigh, does not phone her regularly, and resents the fact that she must pay child support. Time goes by, and back child support mounts, stress over having to pay increases, resentment builds.
Then the day before Haleigh disappears, Ron serves Crystal with court doccuments , demanding that back child support be paid, almost $4G.
Crystal and her fiance are livid, and Crystals bf takes off for Satsuma late at night to get revenge on Ron, by taking Haleigh.
Just so happens that Misty is off partying with neighbors, and he finds the children alone sleeping, he grabs the child and reason she does not scream is she knows who is taking her, perhaps told "we're going to see mommy" and he takes her away.(not sure of who he is, his name, background, but suspicious to me)
Just not sure if her hides her, or takes her life and disposes of her, all done without the knowledge of Crystal, or who knows, even With her knowledge.:mad:

[Former Juror]

I have two and can't make up my mind.

My first theory is that Misty was either not there when Haleigh was abducted, or she was passed out/asleep. I think a pedophile, who knew Ron and Misty or knew of them and their actions, took Haleigh.

My other theory is that someone very close to Haleigh hurt her.

I pray that I am wrong on both counts. :rose:

[gemsbmw]

I don't think the father of this little girl is involved at all. I still have my eye on the girlfriend.

[Susie419]

Suzie, I don't know if your post is guesswork about how Crystal and her boyfriend (Griffis, right now I've forgotten his first name) feel about the child support, and how Crystal feels about Haleigh? I ask because you indicate you are close to the situation.

The last half is complete guessing, so I'm wondering if most of the first half is also.

Yesterday it went off like a lightbulb in my head, and I agree with your conclusions (except maybe that Misty was out partying with neighbors, they would have told on her by now, maybe they have and LE is keeping that quiet). It sure seems like Griffis is behind this.

So. Do you know for a fact how he felt about the child support issue?

************************************************** *
I really don't know or have first hand info on how they felt, however, have been in a similar situation myself, and my ex and his wife were angry, very angry, when I sued them for past support owed me for more than $5G. My girls were treated poorly by the stepmother, whereas, her kids and 'their' child together were treated to everything a child could want, meanwhile, I struggled to survive as a single mother.
That hostility is very real, not to say that Crystals situation has to be just like mine was,but last evening, when I heard it on JVM that birth mother was served for back child support, coincidentally, one day b/4 Haleigh disappears,and that she did not call her daughter for the two week periods between visits, (indicates to me lack of bonding) so I saw this thread asking what 'I' think happened, and this is my take on a possible scenario. Merely speculation on my part, based on information picked up on talk shows. JMO. I do hope I am right, and that he did her no harm, but is hiding her somewhere with a relative or something.
Praying she is alive...Susie

[4truth]

Crystal's boyfriend pays the bills in their household. They have their own children and family, but there's Crystals kids who come over and visit every few weeks. He is resentful, and also both are not happy with conditions of custody, Crystal is not bonded with Haleigh, does not phone her regularly, and resents the fact that she must pay child support. Time goes by, and back child support mounts, stress over having to pay increases, resentment builds.
Then the day before Haleigh disappears, Ron serves Crystal with court doccuments , demanding that back child support be paid, almost $4G.
Crystal and her fiance are livid, and Crystals bf takes off for Satsuma late at night to get revenge on Ron, by taking Haleigh.
Just so happens that Misty is off partying with neighbors, and he finds the children alone sleeping, he grabs the child and reason she does not scream is she knows who is taking her, perhaps told "we're going to see mommy" and he takes her away.(not sure of who he is, his name, background, but suspicious to me)
Just not sure if her hides her, or takes her life and disposes of her, all done without the knowledge of Crystal, or who knows, even With her knowledge.:mad:

I have been thinking about this very possability. I certainly believe HC knew who took her. Several years ago in my home town 2 young girls (sisters) came up missing. A couple had divorced and the father was granted custody. Law enforcement determined it was a kidnapping. The girls were gone for 8 years then found. As it turns out the mother was involved with their disappearance. I only pray that Haleigh is safe wherever she is and can be found very soon.

[i_pickle]

Crystal's boyfriend pays the bills in their household. They have their own children and family, but there's Crystals kids who come over and visit every few weeks. He is resentful, and also both are not happy with conditions of custody, Crystal is not bonded with Haleigh, does not phone her regularly, and resents the fact that she must pay child support. Time goes by, and back child support mounts, stress over having to pay increases, resentment builds.
Then the day before Haleigh disappears, Ron serves Crystal with court doccuments , demanding that back child support be paid, almost $4G.
Crystal and her fiance are livid, and Crystals bf takes off for Satsuma late at night to get revenge on Ron, by taking Haleigh.
Just so happens that Misty is off partying with neighbors, and he finds the children alone sleeping, he grabs the child and reason she does not scream is she knows who is taking her, perhaps told "we're going to see mommy" and he takes her away.(not sure of who he is, his name, background, but suspicious to me)
Just not sure if her hides her, or takes her life and disposes of her, all done without the knowledge of Crystal, or who knows, even With her knowledge.:mad:The problem I see with this theory is why just take Haleigh? If the motive was support, both children would've been taken, imo.

[Susie419]

The problem I see with this theory is why just take Haleigh? If the motive was support, both children would've been taken, imo.

**************************************************
Maybe b/c Haleigh was closest to the exit and Jr. was in the bed with Misty, perhaps her arm around him or something...of course speculation..
I think the theory is a strong possibility, above poster reminded me of my girlfriend Cookie (1978)who had 6 kids,5 boys and a girl, her hubby stole "his" 3 boys, and her inlaws were involved also(whole family of bros, sisters, etc..., they moved the boys from LA to TX and Cookie didn't see them until the oldest became 13 and called her , like 7 years later.It was reported here in LA as a kidnapping, but unsolved. When she finally saw her 3 boys again, she was half crazy, doing painkillers and xanax, it took a toll on her life, and the law did nothing to the people involved.The boys remained in custody of their father, as he had poisoned their mind against mother and her family.
There are so many non-custodial abductions in US, that LE cannot keep up with them. Many times, family members are in conspiracy to keep the children hidden, believing it's in their best interest.
I'm thinking along these lines, although it's wrong, still lesser of two evils, better than SO scenario.

[Ca.Survivor]

WoW, you guys have some interesting theories, but what about the lie detector tests?? Do you honestly think Haleigh's mother didn't care about her?? That's a hard one to swallow.:confused:

[Susie419]

WoW, you guys have some interesting theories, but what about the lie detector tests?? Do you honestly think Haleigh's mother didn't care about her?? That's a hard one to swallow.:confused:******************************** *********************To have such a precious angel of a daughter, lose custody of her for her own lack of attention to keeping her, and it's been widely reported that during the periods between visitation, she did not even call her on the phone to say hello...I find that unbelievable, JMO, of course, I'm going by my own feelings here, and KNOW that I could never bear that much time passing without telling my little girl that I love and miss her, every day. Not hard for me to swallow, not at all...:huh:

[Abbie]

************************************************** ***To have such a precious angel of a daughter, lose custody of her for her own lack of attention to keeping her, and it's been widely reported that during the periods between visitation, she did not even call her on the phone to say hello...I find that unbelievable, JMO, of course, I'm going by my own feelings here, and KNOW that I could never bear that much time passing without telling my little girl that I love and miss her, every day. Not hard for me to swallow, not at all...:huh:

I heard the bio mom had drug problems, which is why she does not have custody of them. Maybe she never 'bonded' to them, because she was too concerned with using drugs? That's the only explanation I can think of for only talking to your own kids every 14 days or so....

My Theory:

*father leaves for work between 3-4pm.
*GF, (KC) feeds the kids dinner, they get into their own PJ's, and around 8 or 9 its lights out for them
*KC waits till they are asleep, does a little laundry maybe.
*KC decides/ or is invited to go/ to her BILs trailer to party
*during the partying, kids are sleeping at the Cummings trailer.
*KC is partying, and intermittently checking on the kids, who are sleeping
*KC mentions, or is overheard saying, she has the kids alone in the trailer and is checking on them
*Someone who is a perv/ child molester hears her say that and takes the little girl form the trailer.
-not sure about the propped door-
*maybe KC dealt a little pot out of the home, not much-just enough to provide herself with a little stash and maybe make a little $ on the side. I think RC knew about it too, and he was ok with it. Maybe whoever took HC was someone who had been to the trailer to get a bag, and therefore became privvy to the little girl, the layout of the trailer, and KC's habit of leaving trailer to go party.
*maybe one of BILs friends who parties at his trailer paid KC a compliment, and being only 17 years old and not wise to the ways of the world, is flattered and maybe even goes off with him- hence the little bit of rumor that was going around that KC was cheating on RC
*the bio mom has nothing to do with this at all, neither does her family or friends. I think this was all pervert being the right place at the right time.
*I think the reason MC (the GF) is being so suspicious acting is because she is not telling the truth about being out of the home, because she doesn't want RC to find out she left the kids unattended OR is she was screwing around on him.

These are just my theories so far. JMHO and all that.

[Susie419]

I heard the bio mom had drug problems, which is why she does not have custody of them. Maybe she never 'bonded' to them, because she was too concerned with using drugs? That's the only explanation I can think of for only talking to your own kids every 14 days or so....

My Theory:

*father leaves for work between 3-4pm.
*GF, (KC) feeds the kids dinner, they get into their own PJ's, and around 8 or 9 its lights out for them
*KC waits till they are asleep, does a little laundry maybe.
*KC decides/ or is invited to go/ to her BILs trailer to party
*during the partying, kids are sleeping at the Cummings trailer.
*KC is partying, and intermittently checking on the kids, who are sleeping
*KC mentions, or is overheard saying, she has the kids alone in the trailer and is checking on them
*Someone who is a perv/ child molester hears her say that and takes the little girl form the trailer.
-not sure about the propped door-
*maybe KC dealt a little pot out of the home, not much-just enough to provide herself with a little stash and maybe make a little $ on the side. I think RC knew about it too, and he was ok with it. Maybe whoever took HC was someone who had been to the trailer to get a bag, and therefore became privvy to the little girl, the layout of the trailer, and KC's habit of leaving trailer to go party.
*maybe one of BILs friends who parties at his trailer paid KC a compliment, and being only 17 years old and not wise to the ways of the world, is flattered and maybe even goes off with him- hence the little bit of rumor that was going around that KC was cheating on RC
*the bio mom has nothing to do with this at all, neither does her family or friends. I think this was all pervert being the right place at the right time.
*I think the reason MC (the GF) is being so suspicious acting is because she is not telling the truth about being out of the home, because she doesn't want RC to find out she left the kids unattended OR is she was screwing around on him.

These are just my theories so far. JMHO and all that.

************************************************
Is this a type-e? I ask only b/c in first paragraph, you state *GF(KC)
then,in your last paragraph, you say MC(the GF) so I just want to be clear that you are speaking of Misty and not some other person of interest.

[i_pickle]

************************************************** ***To have such a precious angel of a daughter, lose custody of her for her own lack of attention to keeping her, and it's been widely reported that during the periods between visitation, she did not even call her on the phone to say hello...I find that unbelievable, JMO, of course, I'm going by my own feelings here, and KNOW that I could never bear that much time passing without telling my little girl that I love and miss her, every day. Not hard for me to swallow, not at all...:huh:I see no indication that Crystal doesn't care about her children. The allegations about her not calling are coming from Ron. I don't find him to be believable at all.

And as far as drug use...Ron is a drug user as well...more so than Crystal, imo. She was never arrested for possession of the amount of drugs he was. And the slap on the wrist he got for that charge leads me to believe he cut a deal and informed.

I don't know what happened but I don't think that Crystal's b/f took Haleigh over support.

[BobbisAngel]

Crystal's boyfriend pays the bills in their household. They have their own children and family, but there's Crystals kids who come over and visit every few weeks. He is resentful, and also both are not happy with conditions of custody, Crystal is not bonded with Haleigh, does not phone her regularly, and resents the fact that she must pay child support. Time goes by, and back child support mounts, stress over having to pay increases, resentment builds.
Then the day before Haleigh disappears, Ron serves Crystal with court doccuments , demanding that back child support be paid, almost $4G.
Crystal and her fiance are livid, and Crystals bf takes off for Satsuma late at night to get revenge on Ron, by taking Haleigh.
Just so happens that Misty is off partying with neighbors, and he finds the children alone sleeping, he grabs the child and reason she does not scream is she knows who is taking her, perhaps told "we're going to see mommy" and he takes her away.(not sure of who he is, his name, background, but suspicious to me)
Just not sure if her hides her, or takes her life and disposes of her, all done without the knowledge of Crystal, or who knows, even With her knowledge.:mad:



If I were going to point a finger at anyone this would be the one. I think that Crystal would be involved too though. I think that Haleigh might be staying with someone Crystal's boyfriend knows for right now. If Crystal and her boyfriend disappear after they return home then I will really believe that Haleigh is with them. They could move far far away and probably never be spotted. Something about Crystal and her boyfriend just rubs me the wrong way.

[Susie419]

If I were going to point a finger at anyone this would be the one. I think that Crystal would be involved too though. I think that Haleigh might be staying with someone Crystal's boyfriend knows for right now. If Crystal and her boyfriend disappear after they return home then I will really believe that Haleigh is with them. They could move far far away and probably never be spotted. Something about Crystal and her boyfriend just rubs me the wrong way.______________________________________________ ___________

IF this is Not a stranger abduction, and from looking at the whole picture of the whole family, I too would lean towards the mother's side, even a possible conspiracy with many involved , thinking it's best for the child, considering her health condition.
The only thing I think Misty is hiding is that she left to party while Ron was at work and is afraid to admit to him for fear of retaliation or his anger. Ron was at work.
As for motive, it was the child support thing...I do hope that child is somewhere safe. Good night all. Susie

[forensicfan]

I'm going to throw this one out there.

IF there is truth to the allegation that Mistey was having an affair with Ron's uncle, was that the family member that was there earlier on the evening that Hailey disappeared? Was the cousin there at the same time? If yes to both, could Mistey have asked the cousin to watch the kids while she went off with the uncle for a bit and while she was gone, maybe the cousin unlocked that door to return later? Even if she never left the home, could he have unlocked the door while he was there visiting?

I hear two different stories where the cousin in concerned: One is that he was cleared and another is that NOBODY has been cleared.

[BitterSweet]

My theory..my opinion..NOT FACT
Haleigh's parents loved her the best way they knew how to love a child.

I also believe Misty cared deeply for Haleigh as well. And again the best way she knew how with the knowledge she had. Remember, Misty is 17 years of age.

Misty was left to care for Junior and Haleigh while Ronald went worked late into the evening/early morning. She is IMO only a child. She did the best she could.

WEEKENDS at this trailer were "party time". Drugs/booze, etc. Friends and friends of friends, and co-workers, etc. Long weekends, sleep filled weeks. Misty was utterly and completely out of it the night Haleigh went missing following a illegal filled weekend. Thus the bizarre info. of where she was sleeping that evening.

Many question why she did not call 911 before Ron arrived home. She was wanted to clear the home of illegal substances. She was "out of it" and would rather wait for Ron to come home (clear the house) and then call police. She did not fathom the enorimty of the situation, and truly I don't think I would have either.

None the less, this home was stalked and Haleigh was the target.
This is my opinion only.
BitterSweet

[The Lion S]

...that bio-mom has more motive than anyone else to have picked up the child. What is bothering me the most lately is this "man in black" story which has recently been upgraded to "a black man." It is implausible to me that the 4-yo would have spontaneously woken up at that very moment to see as bio-mom put it "whoever that was."

Often in these child disappearance cases, the race card is played to deflect attention away from the real perpetrator for example Susan Smith and the runaway bride who claimed she had been kidnapped by latinos and raped. No such people existed.

My hope is that the bio-mom's family decided to do this solely to avoid the child support issue and that Haleigh is with relatives safe and sound. They probably just didn't realize that it would get this much national attention.

[Susie419]

...that bio-mom has more motive than anyone else to have picked up the child. What is bothering me the most lately is this "man in black" story which has recently been upgraded to "a black man." It is implausible to me that the 4-yo would have spontaneously woken up at that very moment to see as bio-mom put it "whoever that was."

Often in these child disappearance cases, the race card is played to deflect attention away from the real perpetrator for example Susan Smith and the runaway bride who claimed she had been kidnapped by latinos and raped. No such people existed.

My hope is that the bio-mom's family decided to do this solely to avoid the child support issue and that Haleigh is with relatives safe and sound. They probably just didn't realize that it would get this much national attention.

Bolding in response to: OR quite the contrary!!! Seeing all of the media attention given to the Caylee Anthony case, publicity could have very well been what someone wanted, perhaps thinking of cashing in on it in some way. Considering that Caylee and Jessica L. got so much attn., I don't think the media circus is much of a surprise.

[The Lion S]

[/B]

Bolding in response to: OR quite the contrary!!! Seeing all of the media attention given to the Caylee Anthony case, publicity could have very well been what someone wanted, perhaps thinking of cashing in on it in some way. Considering that Caylee and Jessica L. got so much attn., I don't think the media circus is much of a surprise.

You know, you may have a point. And Haleigh rhymes with Caylee to boot.

[PolyGraph]

My first original thought when I first heard of this case without having too much info was that the mom may have taken the child for some reason (this was before I learned of the back child support) anyway then soon after I thought about the lifestyle of a 17 year old and what they would do after they had their own place and how would they act, well my guess is that she would have to have some type of company due to her age and she would not want to be lonely, so my guess is she had company that night or went out that night...

my theory is now after learning about the cousin, that he had been messing with mc to her own admittance) but im not sure if it was like a rape or not, he is only a year or a few years older than her and if he molested her in the past why was he even in her house recently? Im not sure I understand that par t of this case but anyway, so my guess is she may have been seeing the cousin, possibly having a relationship with him behind rons back, and didnt want ron to know (due to her fear of him) that he may have been there that night...and maybe the cousin after having the fight with ron, and possibly being enamoured with mysti he may have taken haleigh for retribution. My only sad thought is if anywone had her right now they would have given her back by now knowing the case had gotten national attention, I dont think anyone would keep her...that is what is so sad about the case...I want to believe so badly she is alive but I cannot see someone holding a well known kidnapped child for this long. But i def think mysti had someone in the home that night, and that someone knew haleigh would be alone and available, so either mysti ent out partying for a bit int he middle of the night, or she was there and pretty passed out, who would risk that otherwise? MOOO I say look a lot closer at the cousin...MOO

[Jinxie]

I think a previous tennant...possibly an unregistered/uncaught SO....let himself in with a key and took Haleigh, after surveillance for a few days.

I feel 'he' knew there was a little girl living there and he wanted her.

Imo, he chocked the back screen-door opened for a faster getaway.

I believe when Misty woke up to go to the bathroom she saw the light on in the kitchen. Imo, she left it on by accident at bedtime.

I think when she realized Haleigh was gone....she took a few minutes to search every closet, room, bed and pile of blankets. Maybe she even searched twice. IMO, she couldn't believe her eyes for a few minutes.

I think she then tried to call Ron who saw who was calling but didn't answer because he was just about home.

I think Ron searched in disbelief a few minutes also and then told Misty to call 911

IMHO Haleigh was asleep when she was carried out of the house and never knew what happened until the SO got her away from the home.

IMHO I don't believe age, experience with child care, intelligence or lack thereof, smoking or previous run-ins with LE have anything to do with this crime.

I have also been thinking along this train of thought. I really do not believe this is a family involved crime at all! And lastly I am so glad you wrote the last paragraph as it is nice to know that I am not alone in thinking this too.

[Politigal]

This case is a puzzler for sure...I think there's a huge pool of possible suspects responsible for Haleigh's disappearance.

I personally don't believe Ronald Cummings or Misty Croslin are on that list. I have several theories on who may have taken Haleigh.

1) From the beginning, I've struggled with the fact that Haleigh was taken from the same room where Misty and Jr were sleeping. IMO, that signals that it was someone very familiar with them...someone aware of Ronald working nights....someone aware of layout of the rooms...someone possibly even aware of how soundly Misty sleeps. I've even wondered if when Misty's brother was over earlier in the evening, that she could have been given some sort of sedative. It was reported Misty was exhausted that night. It would be interesting to know if police did any sort of drug test on Misty that night. Her brother has a criminal record from several yrs ago (when he was about 16 yoa) of battery and of disturbing a religious or school type assembly.

2) The timing of the child support issue is very troubling...Ronald had just received his documents in the mail and I assume Crystal had probably just received hers as well. I think there was a good reason the judge awarded custody to Ronald, and knowing the stressers that come with being a step-parent, Chad Griffis is in a bind, supporting Crystal & children, and knowing that he more than likely will have to assist Crystal in meeting her back child support obligations. And after I watched one video interview with him, it was troubling to me that he would not make eye contact with the reporter. He kept looking down or away. That seems deceptive IMO. I don't know that he might be dirrectly responsible, but he could have "friends" in low places who erased a big debt for him by taking Haleigh.

3) I think it's possible that Haleigh got up that night after Misty fell asleep. Maybe Haleigh felt a little bit left out or lonesome, that Jr had someone to snuggle with and she didn't. Or maybe she had slept late and just wasn't tired. I think she could have turned on the light in the kitchen to get a drink of water. Or, if she had a habit of peeing in the bed, she could have awoken to that, and gone to change clothes in the laundry area. Someone could have already entered the home or been peeking in the windows and somehow gained access to have taken her.

4) From the Lunsford & other cases, we know that sex offenders are getting more & more brazen with their crimes....abducting children in broad daylight, and sneaking into people's homes to take their victims. Since the initial reports led to the water and around Buchanan, it really makes me suspicious of people whose property backed up to the woods there behind Haleigh's home. It could have been someone who hunts in that little area, or sneaks around looking at places to burglarize, who may have been familiar with the family habits. Most all the homes in that area are mobile homes, and from comparing phone records versus property appraisal ownership records, it also appears many are rentals. There are also lots of travel trailers & RV's....meaning very mobile people live there.

5) And then, there's Cousin "Joe"....it's reported he's only 19yoa....I have difficulty believing that he could carry off a very sophisticated and apparently evidenceless crime of abduction and possibly murder. But, it does seem he had a possible axe to grind with Ronald over the stolen gun.

6) It could be someone Haleigh was familiar with....a bus driver, a teacher, a parent of a friend, a neighbor, etc. Or, even though it was reported the lock was too high for Haleigh to have opened the back door, who is to say that she didn't just scoot a chair up to the door and open it herself.

So many what ifs in this story.....

[4Kids]

Joe. I think that Joe was staying with Misty and Ron prior to the gun incident. LE has already confirmed they are investigating the gun theft. No sign of a break-in. Someone who had key or who knew how to get in. Ron was speaking about Joe in that 911 call. "She's not property. I will kill him with my gun." Ron thought it was Joe. At this point, so do I. Please note my theory may change if LE ever decides to release one piece of evidence. MOO

I hope today is Haleigh's day to come home.

[Politigal]

Trying to put Haleigh's abduction into context....


*Why* would someone specifically want to abduct Haleigh?
*Who* would want to or benefit from abducting Haleigh?


IMO, Haleigh wasn't a high profile child....the community is small, rural, and I doubt there was much traffic on the road by her home for someone to have seen her playing outdoors. Where did she usually ride her bicycle, and was an adult usually present? Why was Haleigh targeted?

And as far as who, aside from a random sex offender, who would benefit with Haleigh gone? Or, who would commit a crime of such magnitude against Ronald Cummings & family?

[Rushbo]

IMO, she most likely disappeared at the hand of Ron and/or Misty.

[catdoc]

I think a previous tennant...possibly an unregistered/uncaught SO....let himself in with a key and took Haleigh, after surveillance for a few days.

I feel 'he' knew there was a little girl living there and he wanted her.

Imo, he chocked the back screen-door opened for a faster getaway.

I believe when Misty woke up to go to the bathroom she saw the light on in the kitchen. Imo, she left it on by accident at bedtime.

I think when she realized Haleigh was gone....she took a few minutes to search every closet, room, bed and pile of blankets. Maybe she even searched twice. IMO, she couldn't believe her eyes for a few minutes.

I think she then tried to call Ron who saw who was calling but didn't answer because he was just about home.

I think Ron searched in disbelief a few minutes also and then told Misty to call 911

IMHO Haleigh was asleep when she was carried out of the house and never knew what happened until the SO got her away from the home.

IMHO I don't believe age, experience with child care, intelligence or lack thereof, smoking or previous run-ins with LE have anything to do with this crime.

Agreed. Very Good analysis. :thumbsup:

[iluvspring]

IMO, she most likely disappeared at the hand of Ron and/or Misty.

You are spot on!! MOO

[iluvspring]

IMHO, she ended up in that river at the hands of those who should have been protecting her. Someone lost their temper.

[The Lion S]

IMO, she most likely disappeared at the hand of Ron and/or Misty.

And now that they are getting married, they can't testify against each other.

[i_pickle]

And now that they are getting married, they can't testify against each other.I was always suspicious of both of them. They clearly lied from the beginning and now they can't testify against each other.

How convenient.

[Abbie]

I think a previous tennant...possibly an unregistered/uncaught SO....let himself in with a key and took Haleigh, after surveillance for a few days.

I feel 'he' knew there was a little girl living there and he wanted her.

Imo, he chocked the back screen-door opened for a faster getaway.

I believe when Misty woke up to go to the bathroom she saw the light on in the kitchen. Imo, she left it on by accident at bedtime.

I think when she realized Haleigh was gone....she took a few minutes to search every closet, room, bed and pile of blankets. Maybe she even searched twice. IMO, she couldn't believe her eyes for a few minutes.

I think she then tried to call Ron who saw who was calling but didn't answer because he was just about home.

I think Ron searched in disbelief a few minutes also and then told Misty to call 911

IMHO Haleigh was asleep when she was carried out of the house and never knew what happened until the SO got her away from the home.

IMHO I don't believe age, experience with child care, intelligence or lack thereof, smoking or previous run-ins with LE have anything to do with this crime.

He propped it open first because, being familiar with the trailer, knew it would slam shut and he did not want to awaken anybody on his way out with haleigh. jmo.

[The Lion S]

Why would Misty or Ron use a block?
What difference would it make if the door slammed shut if they were the ones who took Haleigh?

IMHO, as always.

The only reason people prop open doors is to be able get back in. Whoever did this had to be someone who had been in the house recently, but could not rightfully re-enter the residence e.g by the front door or by knocking on the door. So-- s/he propped open the door.

In the alternative, the cinder block could be a complete deception. If Misty and/or Ron are responsible it would have been difficult to explain to the police how someone got in their house.

I'm still on the fence about this one.

[Politigal]

The only reason people prop open doors is to be able get back in. Whoever did this had to be someone who had been in the house recently, but could not rightfully re-enter the residence e.g by the front door or by knocking on the door. So-- s/he propped open the door.

In the alternative, the cinder block could be a complete deception. If Misty and/or Ron are responsible it would have been difficult to explain to the police how someone got in their house.

I'm still on the fence about this one.

IMO, the use of the cinder block doesn't necessarily mean that the perp had been in the house before....it could just be that he/she knew they would be carrying Haleigh and couldn't open the door very easily on the way out, unless that door was propped open.

[The Lion S]

IMO, the use of the cinder block doesn't necessarily mean that the perp had been in the house before....it could just be that he/she knew they would be carrying Haleigh and couldn't open the door very easily on the way out, unless that door was propped open.

However, how could s/he know that the door would even be a problem unless they were familiar with that door?:confused:

[Politigal]

However, how could s/he know that the door would even be a problem unless they were familiar with that door?:confused:

It's a typical mobile home with a storm door which most likely had a pneumatic closer (or a broken one.) If someone went in specifically with the intent to take Haleigh, they would want to prop that door open to make a quick exit with her. And if they did enter thru that door, obviously, they would see that it shuts quickly.

Usually, storm doors do have pneumatic closers...Screen doors usually have a spring closer. These outside doors aren't like interior doors.
IMO

[BobbisAngel]

...that bio-mom has more motive than anyone else to have picked up the child. What is bothering me the most lately is this "man in black" story which has recently been upgraded to "a black man." It is implausible to me that the 4-yo would have spontaneously woken up at that very moment to see as bio-mom put it "whoever that was."

Often in these child disappearance cases, the race card is played to deflect attention away from the real perpetrator for example Susan Smith and the runaway bride who claimed she had been kidnapped by latinos and raped. No such people existed.

My hope is that the bio-mom's family decided to do this solely to avoid the child support issue and that Haleigh is with relatives safe and sound. They probably just didn't realize that it would get this much national attention.


I agree with you. If RJ really did see a man dressed in black it could have easily been Crystal's boyfriend wearing black with a black knitted cap with eye, nose, and mouth holes so that RJ wouldn't recognize him if he did wake up. Or Crystal put the idea in his head about this man who came in in order to have the man be a stranger or black. I get a bad feeling everytime I see Crystal and her boyfriend on TV....not that it really means anything but they really make me uneasy. I wonder how well LE has checked out the boyfriend's alibi.

[iluvspring]

I was certain for quite some time that MC and RC knew exactly what happened and they were the perps. I'm not so sure now that I have listened to both of them and read many forums and paid very close attention to RC and MC. I keep going back to cousin Joe and his background. Seems very likely it could have been him. So sad for poor Haleigh to have been part of such a screwed up family. The family tree (both sides) is filled with a very long list of criminals and some SO's. I don't believe this was a stranger abduction. It's all in the family. IMHO.

[BJames]

Just a thought on why the door was held open with the cinder block?

I would imagine that whomever took this wee girl carried her in his/her arms, thus not having the ability to open it when leaving the home..nor closing it after they left.
If the storm door story is true then we are left with the thought that this was indeed a 'plan', that someone went in there with the specific intention of carrying the child out...I just can not see someone setting Haleigh on the ground and closing the door behind them.
Whomever it was I do believe that they were very familiar with that home and most especially that door...this wasn't 'random'.

Just my opinion of course..

[horsecrazy]

I think Misty propped open the door with a cinder block; put clothes in front of inside door to hold it open and left the light on when SHE left. She needed to get back in and see her way. Wherever she went either someone knew she was gone; or someone saw her leave; or word of mouth gave someone info that she was not there. Just my thoughts!

I think Misty knows something more than she is telling. If she would be upfront and honest it would help perhaps solve this mystery.

Now, I have a question--Why did Misty Cummings
leave when the police came the night of Haleigh being taken? It was said on t.v. she had gone home to her family. Why did she do that? Ronald Cummings needed her for support I would think. Something odd about that?

This is all so sad for that dear little girl and the people who loved her so much.

[Susie419]

I was always suspicious of both of them. They clearly lied from the beginning and now they can't testify against each other.

How convenient.

On HLN a few nights ago, Mike Galanos asked a talking head Attorney about this issue, (can't remember his name) and the answer was that since the incident occurred prior to the marriage, they are NOT exempt from testifying each other. In the event this goes to court or trial, they will be called to testify and are compelled to do so by Fla. law.
Before this revelation, I too, believed this was a reason for them to marry, however, not anymore.

[JulieBme]

On HLN a few nights ago, Mike Galanos asked a talking head Attorney about this issue, (can't remember his name) and the answer was that since the incident occurred prior to the marriage, they are NOT exempt from testifying each other. In the event this goes to court or trial, they will be called to testify and are compelled to do so by Fla. law.
Before this revelation, I too, believed this was a reason for them to marry, however, not anymore.


But would the *father* have known that or just make the assumption most of us did,that it would exempt her from testifying against him.

I'm not leaning towards him being involved personally,but there's so many things that are so strange about the case that I'm just up in the air.

Oh,I'm new here so am waving Hi at everybody.:)

[noahbaby]

Hi ALL - This is my first post here so please bear w/me as I learn all the particulars!!:confused:

First off, I would like to say I really like reading this board!! Have been lurking for awhile and finally decided to join.

After reading all the news clips, watching the videos and interviews, this is what I think.

I think Ron was po'd that Misty was gone on a 3-day bender. He brought her back on Monday, 2/9/09. Took his frustration out on little HL - maybe back-handed her - she hit her head. Ron went to work late that day (per JVM interview w/his pastor - the pastor said Ron told him, "I worked 8 hours, came home & my child was gone.") I called PDM to find out the shift hours. 6AM - 4PM and 4:30 PM - 3AM. So, IF Ron only worked 8 hours as opposed to 10, that means he left at say..around 6pm. Plenty of time to get rid of a body.

I believe that Ron accidently killed HL - she may have died of internal head injuries. Had to think of something fast - thus..the back door theory. I believe Misty is in on this and is scared to death to come clean w/LE.

I think Ron put HL in his vehicle and dumped her body at his work site. He handles 2 ton barges - could have smashed her to death with a barge.

Sorry, I know this sounds horrific - but it all makes sense to me.

It would explain Ron being at work, Misty's inconsistancies. I do not believe GGranny Sykes came over that day as it took her 9 days after HL went missing to come up w/that story.

[Tia]

Hi ALL - This is my first post here so please bear w/me as I learn all the particulars!!:confused:

First off, I would like to say I really like reading this board!! Have been lurking for awhile and finally decided to join.

After reading all the news clips, watching the videos and interviews, this is what I think.

I think Ron was po'd that Misty was gone on a 3-day bender. He brought her back on Monday, 2/9/09. Took his frustration out on little HL - maybe back-handed her - she hit her head. Ron went to work late that day (per JVM interview w/his pastor - the pastor said Ron told him, "I worked 8 hours, came home & my child was gone.") I called PDM to find out the shift hours. 6AM - 4PM and 4:30 PM - 3AM. So, IF Ron only worked 8 hours as opposed to 10, that means he left at say..around 6pm. Plenty of time to get rid of a body.

I believe that Ron accidently killed HL - she may have died of internal head injuries. Had to think of something fast - thus..the back door theory. I believe Misty is in on this and is scared to death to come clean w/LE.

I think Ron put HL in his vehicle and dumped her body at his work site. He handles 2 ton barges - could have smashed her to death with a barge.

Sorry, I know this sounds horrific - but it all makes sense to me.

It would explain Ron being at work, Misty's inconsistancies. I do not believe GGranny Sykes came over that day as it took her 9 days after HL went missing to come up w/that story.


I tend to agree somewhat with this theory.

"okay Ronald, I'll help you, but you need to promise you will marry me".

[BitterSweet]

Ronald and Misty party the weekend away.

I do NOT believe there was partying the night of Haleigh's disappearance.

Misty is at home with R.J. and Haleigh and a house guest. Again, she IS NOT partying.
Misty is just chilling out with possibly a cousin (male) and possibly other children. She discovers Haleigh has consumed drugs (RONALD'S DRUGS), and is ill.

MOMENT OF PANIC!
Haleigh is having seizures!
Haleigh is vomiting - thus the blanket.

Misty lays with Haleigh untill she is asleep. Misty feels the worst is over and lays Haleigh down in her "toddler bed". Misty rejoins friend in living room.

Suddenly Haleigh is violently ill again.
Misty's houseguest suggests she call an ambulance? Misty KNOWS that there are drugs in the home Misty suggests her friend take Haleigh to the hospital. Misty needs to stay behind to dispose of illegal substances in the home (especially the one Haleigh consumed).
Misty tells houseguest she will keep the door "proped open" for his and Haleighs return.
Misty is hoping Haleigh will return.

Cousin/friend/neighbor - witnesses Haleigh die in the car.
Misty's Houseguest never returns, nor does Haleigh.
He/She disposes of Haleigh's body.


An accident /crime..This is not for me to decide.

THIS IS MY OPINION ONLY!
BitterSweet