From Central Maine –
Nearly six years after toddler Ayla Reynolds disappeared from her Waterville home, triggering the largest police investigation in state history and drawing national attention, her mother will go to probate court seeking to have a judge formally declare the child dead so she can later file a wrongful death lawsuit against the girl’s father.
The probate court hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. Thursday in Cumberland County Probate Court at 142 Federal Street in Portland.
I thought we needed a new post to focus on Thursday’s court proceeding. I’ll update this post as news comes in. Sending up prayers for the family during this difficult time.
A word from Jeff –
“Ayla Reynolds’ case has affected a lot of people over these last six years. Tomorrow, a death certificate for Ayla may make it official for us.
Unfortunately for Trista, in her heart of hearts, her baby Ayla dies everyday. Tomorrow is another day in justice for us and in justice for Ayla.”
Update from WMTW –
Reynolds appeared in court Thursday, saying she does not think her daughter is alive.
Ayla has been missing since December 2011, while she was in the care of her father Justin DiPietro in Waterville.
Maine State Police continue to investigate Ayla’s disappearance, but have said they believe she is dead.
No arrests have been made in connection with the girl’s disappearance.
The judge did not issue a ruling Thursday in court.
Update from BDN –
The question of whether missing toddler Ayla Reynolds will be declared legally dead is in the hands of a probate court judge following a quick hearing on the matter Thursday in Portland.
Ayla Reynolds disappeared from Waterville in December 2011 and hasn’t been seen since. Her mother, Trista Reynolds of Scarborough, is seeking the declaration of death in order to pursue further legal action, including a possible wrongful death lawsuit against Ayla’s biological father, Justin DiPietro. DiPietro did not attend Thursday’s hearing.
Cumberland County Judge of Probate Joseph Mazziotti concluded the hearing after less than 30 minutes and is expected to issue a written decision, possibly later Thursday, according to William Childs, who represents Reynolds in the case.
Maine State Police Lt. Jeffrey Love testified that investigators assume the Reynolds girl is deceased. He said police have received more than 1,500 tips since her disappearance.
Update 9/27/17 from WMTW –
PORTLAND, Maine —
A probate judge has issued an order declaring Ayla Reynolds legally dead.
Ayla has been missing since December 2011, while she was in the care of her father Justin DiPietro in Waterville.
The order from the judge signed on Wednesday said Ayla died on or about Dec. 17, 2011.
Friends For Ayla 
ms.p
September 20, 2017 at 11:10 pm
I have confidence that thursday the judge will do the right thing by Ayla. Which happens to be the right thing for her loving mother who always was a parent to Ayla.
There are right and wrongs in human life. What happened to Ayla was just awful. Ayla was done so wrong by her dad and others.
Thursday is the beginning of the truth.
Lee
September 20, 2017 at 11:38 pm
May the dominoes start falling.
Darlene F Haskell
September 21, 2017 at 8:53 am
God Bless you.. I’m sure the judge will do the right thing here.. Not sure I understand, why they didn’t try this on circumstantial evidence.. Take comfort in knowing the lord says, “vengeance is mine.” God knows what happened to your little girl, and who was involved.. Have faith Trista, and trust in god when Justice fails.. Darlene Eaton.
Deb M Peirce
September 21, 2017 at 10:26 am
My heart is heavy for Ayla and Tristan. I can’t imagine the pain she goes through everyday knowing she doesn’t get to watch her beautiful baby girl grow. May justice be served. Give Trista the closure she needs
Deb M Peirce
September 21, 2017 at 10:27 am
Autocorrect posted Tristan instead of Tristan….grrrr
kathy a mercer
September 21, 2017 at 10:32 am
Prayers for Tristan and baby Ayla..May justice finally be served.
Aurora M
September 21, 2017 at 10:33 am
Can’t imagine what your going through but I know your strong and you can fight this the judge will do what is right for her and yourself stay strong Trista and believe me I’ll be praying hard for you.
Mommyof2girls
September 21, 2017 at 10:37 am
I hope that today’s outcome in court will be a giant step closer to putting Justin Dipetro in prison.. Everyone in the house that night knows what happend to that poor little angel and who did it.. The fact they are all living on with their happy little lives is apauling! Step up your game maine!!! Make us proud to be from here and give trista and her family but most importantly little ayla the justice they all deserve for a Lang time now.. the amount of blood found should have been enough to prosecute!
mountain mama
September 21, 2017 at 10:39 am
Welcome everyone. I’m on pins and needles waiting to hear some news. Anyone know reporters’ twitters?
mountain mama
September 21, 2017 at 11:27 am
I’ve updated the post with links and snips from recent articles. It seems we’re waiting for the judge to make a decision. I’ll post new articles in the comment section until we receive the judgement. Once the judge makes his decision, I’ll add the information to the post.
mountain mama
September 21, 2017 at 11:28 am
Justin DiPietro was not present in the courtroom, although he had been notified last spring of the hearing.
If probate Judge Joseph Mazziotti declares Reynolds dead, it will open the door for Trista Reynolds to file a wrongful death lawsuit against Justin DiPietro.
Mazziotti’s decision could come at any time.
http://www.centralmaine.com/2017/09/21/judge-hears-request-to-legally-declare-ayla-reynolds-dead/
mountain mama
September 21, 2017 at 11:32 am
Trista Reynolds appeared in court Thursday, saying she does not think her daughter is alive.
Ayla has been missing since December 2011, while she was in the care of her father Justin DiPietro in Waterville.
Maine State Police continue to investigate Ayla’s disappearance, but have said they believe she is dead.
http://www.wabi.tv/content/news/Mother-of-Ayla-Reynolds-Asks-Judge-to-Declare-Daughter-Legally-Dead-446094033.html
Anonymous
September 21, 2017 at 12:28 pm
God bless Ayla’s mother and her family.
mountain mama
September 21, 2017 at 12:53 pm
http://www.pressherald.com/2017/09/21/judge-hears-request-to-legally-declare-ayla-reynolds-dead/
ms.p
September 21, 2017 at 1:14 pm
snipped: If probate Judge Joseph Mazziotti declares Ayla Reynolds dead, it will open the door for Trista Reynolds to file a wrongful death lawsuit against DiPietro. Childs said he has already taken the depositions of Roberts and Elisha DiPietro, and that Trista Reynolds sat for a polygraph examination in Portland, the results of which Childs plans to release to the media in the future.
Advertisement
The depositions yielded new information, Childs said, but he declined to elaborate on what he learned.
Another snip: “We would like to find out what happened to Ayla, and where that leads us, we’ll see,” he said.
ms.p
barbarag816
September 21, 2017 at 1:38 pm
This is really interesting…new information? I hope they’re finally doing the right thing for Ayla.
ms.p
September 21, 2017 at 1:45 pm
https://bangordailynews.com/2017/09/21/news/judge-will-decide-if-maine-toddler-missing-since-2011-will-be-declared-dead/
a snip:
“We would like to find out what happened to Ayla,” Childs said outside the courthouse. “Where that leads us, we’ll see.”
Maine State Police Lt. Jeffrey Love testified that investigators assume that Ayla is deceased. He said police have received more than 1,500 tips since her disappearance.
“We have not received any information nor is there any evidence that Ayla is alive,” Love told the court.
Trista Reynolds said the same.
“Do you know where your daughter is?” Childs asked of her on the stand.
“I do not,” Reynolds said.
“Do you believe her passed?” he asked.
“I do,” Reynolds replied.
ms.p
September 21, 2017 at 2:26 pm
http://wgme.com/news/local/judge-expected-to-make-decision-on-whether-to-declare-ayla-reynolds-legally-dead
this is from wgme.com:
The Maine State Police lead investigator told the judge they have no information to suggest that Ayla is alive.
Ayla’s father, Justin DiPietro, reported her missing from his mother’s Waterville home in December of 2011 where he and Ayla had been living.
He told police he believed she was kidnapped.
State Police later said there was no evidence of a kidnapping.
They also said they found a large amount of Ayla’s blood in the basement of the DiPietro home, which someone tried to clean up with bleach and that they believed Ayla was dead.
mountain mama
September 21, 2017 at 2:51 pm
Thanks for the articles MsP. It looks like the story has been picked up by the AP and is being used in national news now. Many will never forget Ayla but for those who have, this will remind them.
ms.p
September 21, 2017 at 5:29 pm
Your welcome mama. People care very much about Ayla. Very glad to hear this is in the national news.
CG
September 21, 2017 at 7:25 pm
Bleach? Where did that come from? I don’t recall hearing that before.
mountain mama
September 21, 2017 at 7:28 pm
I saw that in a few articles today CG. It sounds like they’re referring to something MSP said in the past rather than today in the courtroom.
CG
September 21, 2017 at 7:29 pm
I just don’t remember it at all. Do you remember them every saying it? I remember them referring to cleaning up blood but not bleach specifically.
mountain mama
September 21, 2017 at 7:32 pm
Didn’t McCausland deny that on Nancy Grace? Not deny, but refuse to confirm?
CG
September 21, 2017 at 7:46 pm
Maybe so.
ms.p
September 21, 2017 at 8:12 pm
I was hoping someone would comment on the bleach. I was trying to understand/remember where and when that was originally stated. In this article it is not worded like it is new information told. And there is no specific author for this article. I was wondering if possibly Love or someone else official said something new or maybe mentioned that as if we already knew this.. But it could also be misinformation from some time ago. I hope we can find out if this is correct information or not of what happened.
mountain mama
September 21, 2017 at 3:14 pm
Childs said he’s taken the depositions of DiPietro’s sister, Elisha DiPietro, and DiPietro’s girlfriend, Courtney Roberts. The attorney said he also plans to take Justin DiPietro’s deposition.
Childs said the depositions provided new information about the case, but he declined to provide specific details. When asked whether he must share potential evidence with investigators, Childs said: “I wouldn’t say that I’m required to share it with them, but I’m definitely not going to impede their investigation.”
Reynolds has denied the DiPietro family’s accusations that she was involved in her daughter’s disappearance, Childs said.
Childs said Reynolds did “very well” on a polygraph examination months ago. He said he plans to release those results but didn’t provide a timeframe.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/maine-judge-to-weigh-death-declaration-for-missing-toddler/2017/09/21/42d6ab4c-9ef8-11e7-b2a7-bc70b6f98089_story.html?utm_term=.d70a639b3d84
ms.p
September 21, 2017 at 5:37 pm
Seems evry article has a little something new. Or at least worded a little new.
Well today was a very important step forward for Ayla and her maternal family. I would think the judge will let them know his ruling as soon as possible. I hope so.
ms.p
September 21, 2017 at 5:45 pm
I just wanted to add, I think this is a good thing.
“Somehow, someway, this case comes into our work on a daily basis,” Love said.
mountain mama
September 21, 2017 at 5:46 pm
I thought that was encouraging too.
mountain mama
September 21, 2017 at 5:57 pm
I just wanted to mention that today we have viewers from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Spain, South Africa and Jamaica. Welcome all and thank you for remembering Ayla!
Karen
September 21, 2017 at 5:57 pm
We have been waiting for someone to do the right thing for too long. I pray that the truth comes out. New information sounds hopeful. I hope it is. Sweet Baby Ayla has stayed in our minds,hearts and prayers.
Trista, stay strong.
Randy Helmerich
September 22, 2017 at 5:04 pm
I heard he is in Winnetka? Is that the San Fernando Valley? Did the social worker I guess her name is Karen, what happened to her? This is so awful. I’m convinced he did something. I just am so sorry for Trista. She went to get help for herself. I went through the same thing, so I could be there for my child. What is he doing about his other children? Just very curious. I hope the judge makes the right decision. Perhaps then Justin can be taken to civil court. That is a legal maneuver to have them convicted in civil court and go on for a criminal trail.
Karen
September 22, 2017 at 6:01 pm
http://www.local8now.com/content/news/Jury-reaches-verdict-in-Holly-Bobo-murder-trial-446922303.html
Guilty verdict in Holly Bobo trial!!!
ms.p
September 22, 2017 at 9:13 pm
Thanks Karen. Although I did not see all of the trial, I did watch a lot of the full testimony clips on the internet. I know the judge, prosecution and defense attorneys have all been criticized. (some of the criticism seemed justified to me, but, what do I know?) I do think from what I did see that there was enough witnesses and circumstantial evidence presented for the jury to feel they could fairly come up with a verdict if they did find Zach guilty. I understand there will be an appeals trial due to the death penalty and due to what some say was not a fair prosecution, trial and defense.
Two of the things I wondered about, is Zach’s defense attorney arguing that the comments Zach made to others that he was involved (during the time when he was imprisoned) should be viewed as prison talk or prison bragging. And secondly if the public will ever know what Shayne wrote and signed for the government. I guess the defense attorney saying Zach was just doing prison bragging talk, I did not really think that was helpful. But, I guess she was obligated to address it some way? Maybe that was better than trying to say all the witnesses were lying or misunderstood Zach? Or even ignoring.
I sure felt bad for Shayne’s mom having to read that document for the first time in front of the world, so to speak. She seemed to really not believe or still seemed to have hope that her son was not involved. Obviously the prosecution used that – having her read that statement her son wrote – to imply Shane admitted to having knowledge and or participation.. I wish the public had a right to know what his statement was at some point. And as his mom wanted to know when did he make that statement? I don’t believe the prosecution answered her. I understand, that the defense cannot question Shayne because he is deceased as the reason it should not be admitted as evidence at a trial. But it sure seemed damning of Shayne and Zach.
Karen or anyone have thoughts about the verdict?
mountain mama
September 22, 2017 at 10:33 pm
Thanks Karen!
MsP I think the defense attorney was out of line during her statements. It was like she was defending the case all over again IMO. I also think that when Zack was asking the guy in prison if he thought God would forgive him, that definitely didn’t fall into the prison bragging, tough talk category.
I feel bad for Shane’s mom but there was no reason for giving him immunity if he wasn’t involved with the kidnapping, rape or murder. The defense talked about how prosecutors coached and trained Jason but did you see how she had coached Shane’s mom? She left her sitting there on the witness stand before ending her questioning and right on cue, Shane’s mom turned and faced the jury. She sat there crying and shaking and one by one, she looked at each jury member in the eye. Down the whole first row of jurors and then down the second row, tilting her head as she went from one to the next.
ms.p
September 23, 2017 at 3:05 am
Mama, thank you. I really agree with all.
Excellent point on asking about God. That could not be prison bragging in any way. I thought despite being criminals the states witnesses about Zach’s comments either about his involvement or being in way to deep should not have been brought up by his attorney multiple times. Those statements were damning. As in nails in the coffin. (Well we will see what the jury says.) I think the nearly 2 hour closing was just an attempt at mudding the waters and gave her an opportunity to more than once pound the fact his own statements did not mean anything. Some were laughing how awful they thought she was. I thought the case may be very hard to have defended. Maybe both are true.
I believe the prosecution got to rebut her. I wanted to see that, but did not.
I tried to figure out if it was possible for Shane’s mom not to know already what was in that signed document. I do think it was possible but unlikely. Maybe more likely in a technical or literal way she didn’t know, probably on purpose.
I agree with the Bobo’s comment about how Shayne did not face the consequences.
I also wondered if I was Shane’s mom and Zach and Dylan’s mom if I wouldn’t at least somewhat blame Zach for probably involving/letting all that happened… especially with Dylan. Because clearly Dylan is no match for his brother Zach. It is a shame he lived near Zach.
I think a trial for Dylan is a whole different thing. Jason cannot be the same type of witness at least to the parts where he says he was not there. I would be surprised if Zach would tell what happened to get life for himself? Unless he doesn’t expect his appeal to go his way. Clearly Jason wants to live, so maybe no trial but a deal for him. I totally hope the Bobos wishes are respected in all the deciding.
ms.p
September 23, 2017 at 11:41 am
So no appeal or death penalty ? Life without the possibility of parole. Many consecutive
mountain mama
September 23, 2017 at 12:03 pm
Sorry I thought the judge said Zack would testify.
ms.p
September 23, 2017 at 12:12 pm
Well he did answer the judges questions. I think that is what he meant.
ms.p
September 23, 2017 at 12:25 pm
Trying to focus on what is good. That Holly’s family will not have to go through a appeals process or even the death penalty part. They have gone through way to much, way to much for anyone or any family. That Zach will never get out to hurt someone on the outside again. But I think it is a process to digest all this. There is also what will be done with Jason and Dylan? I hope both Jason and Dylan did watch and hear Karen today.
ms.p
September 23, 2017 at 12:47 pm
mama, I just saw this comment: “Prosecution says family didn’t need to hear from Adams regarding confession prior to sentencing #HollyBobo”
ms.p
September 23, 2017 at 12:49 pm
Also another comment I read , not sure of accuracy, is that Zach can still appeal. And if he appeals, any statement made in court could be used against him in his appeals case.
Karen
September 23, 2017 at 12:52 pm
I think I read that Jason will not go to court. That he reached an agreement. And I read that Dylan’s IQ may prevent a death penalty case.
Anonymous
September 23, 2017 at 1:01 pm
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2017/09/23/holly-bobo-case-convicted-killer-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-plus-50-years.html
The bottom of this says Jason Autry does not need trial date, deal made.
I think I read on websluths about Dylan not having a death penalty case.
ms.p
September 23, 2017 at 1:33 pm
Thanks again Karen. That link was helpful.
Okay i get it now. I thought I remembered Jason testifying he is hoping for leniency. And I knew Jason had a deal Federally. So Jason has a state deal too. Probably dependent on his testimony at Zach’s trial. We just don’t know the details yet?
shows Jason has a Federal Deal.
Click to access 979a11e8-68d1-4cf1-9c65-cec079c58536.pdf
Karen
September 23, 2017 at 8:09 am
http://www.local8now.com/content/news/Jury-reaches-verdict-in-Holly-Bobo-murder-trial-446922303.html
I believe that Zac is guilty. But I was surprised by the guilty verdict. This case was so mishandled.
The lack of DNA evidence was what I thought would hurt the DAs case.
But Zac talked to many people about what he had done. The threats to girlfriend were not jailhouse bragging. This guy was crazy. The drugs, I’m sure made him do some of this. He shot his mother in her knee. He shot dogs on his property. The grandfather was scared of him.
I wonder if his past behavior will be allowed to be discussed today?
I hope they give him life. I think that would be harder for his defense attorney to repeal.
ms.p
September 23, 2017 at 10:13 am
Thanks Karen, That was concerning that there was no definitive DNA evidence. Apparently this jury was able to work with what they did have. I am thinking some of the phone pings did back up Jason despite argument from defense.
So much of the investigation seemed wrong including search right from the start.Then there was Dicus (sp) whose focus on TB while dismissing other tips and people. Then the whole investigation/case actually turned into a soap opera. But finally, it looks like justice for a beautiful young woman who was living her own life.
I think we learned how much wrong/danger was going on around her and others in that area. Between sex creeps, violence and lives being lived with severe drug abuse. But who the hell holds a loaded gun on their own mother let alone shoots her? That was sure a very foretelling event.
i too hope he gets life and can never get out for what he has done.
ms.p
September 23, 2017 at 12:31 pm
I am wondering if Zach’s grandfather feels a little or a lot safer now? I hope so.
Karen
September 23, 2017 at 8:17 am
I don’t know what Shane Austins mom knows. But I have seen some mothers never want to believe or admit the truth. So I give her testimony little thought. I think they did say she was wrong and there was a burn barrel. She is Jason’s aunt. I bet that family won’t be getting together for holidays.
ms.p
September 23, 2017 at 11:34 am
Thanks Karen for the comments just trying to understand all. And I did miss some of the testimony about the burn barrel but heard it referred to. So you confirmed that for me.
mountain mama
September 23, 2017 at 11:37 am
They made a deal. Zack testifying now live! http://www.wildabouttrial.com/one_off/zach-adams-trial-holly-bobo-live-stream/
ms.p
September 23, 2017 at 12:02 pm
Well, what can be said about Karen’s statement. I am so glad she was able to do all that.
mountain mama
September 23, 2017 at 10:17 am
I missed this article. There’a short interview/video with Childs and Love.
William Childs, the attorney representing Trista Reynolds, said the wrongful death case could put pressure on the people who last saw Ayla alive.
Childs said they have already deposed DiPietro’s sister and ex-girlfriend, and they plan to speak to DiPietro as well. He is living in California, and did not respond to the court’s notice of Ayla’s death declaration hearing.
“I think everyone was kind of wondering where he was today,” said Love.
Source: Judge Weighing Death Declaration for Missing Toddler Ayla Reynolds – NECN http://www.necn.com/news/new-england/Judge-Weighing-Death-Declaration-for-Missing-Toddler-Ayla-Reynolds-446421673.html#ixzz4tVleTzUZ
Follow us: @necn on Twitter | NECN on Facebook
Karen
September 23, 2017 at 10:26 am
Pressure on anyone who knows what happened to Ayla is a good thing.
I wonder if they will have to drag Justin back for trial?
ms.p
September 23, 2017 at 10:57 am
snipped: “I think everyone was kind of wondering where he was today,” said Love.
How dang telling ??? Not even a letter??? And Ayla was not represented by any paternal family! Again how telling??? And this after trying to blame Trista. Trying to use Trista for what they did.
ms.p
September 25, 2017 at 11:55 am
http://www.centralmaine.com/2017/09/25/ayla-reynolds-mother-awaits-judges-decision-on-whether-to-declare-toddler-dead/
Ayla Reynolds’ mother awaits judge’s decision on whether to declare toddler dead
If probate judge in Cumberland County declares Ayla dead, Trista Reynolds would be able to file a wrongful death suit against Justin DiPietro, Ayla’s father.
By Amy CalderStaff Writer (*Thank you Amy*)
a snipped quote from Trista:
“I think the police are doing everything that they can do in Ayla’s case right now, and I think they’re doing what they’re able to do, if that makes sense,” Trista Reynolds said Monday. “I know they can only do so much with the evidence they do have. I think police are working very hard and trying to get answers to get justice for Ayla, and I think they’re working as hard as they can.”
Also Trista expects(from Childs ) Judge Mazziotti would release a decision today. Trista talks about what the ruling means to her. She also said Mr. Childs would handle future interviews.
Trista and Reynolds family, I will continue to hope and pray for answers and justice for your baby Ayla and for all of you. I see that many people care and have you all in their hearts through this.
ms.p
September 25, 2017 at 3:01 pm
http://www.centralmaine.com/2017/09/25/ayla-reynolds-mother-awaits-judges-decision-on-whether-to-declare-toddler-dead/ link look same. Article has been updated with more from Trista.
one new quote from Trista and Article:
” Asked what she would say to Justin DiPietro if she were in his presence, she said she was not sure. “I don’t know if I’d actually be able to talk to him or if I would just lose it or cry or ask him why,” she said. “I don’t know.””
ms.p
September 25, 2017 at 4:27 pm
http://www.necn.com/news/new-england/Mom-Talks-About-Decision-to-Declare-Missing-Maine-Toddler-Dead-447742393.html
Mom Talks About Decision to Declare Missing Maine Toddler Dead
By Danielle Waugh
snipped from Trista: “Nobody wants to stand in front of a judge and ask them to declare their child dead,” said Reynolds. “But when it’s the only way to get justice… what are you going to do?”
and some other very sad comments.
CG
September 25, 2017 at 4:33 pm
The DiPietros can’t be happy with the media coverage.
mountain mama
September 25, 2017 at 4:39 pm
“I’ve thought about making a quilt out of all of her clothes, but I don’t want to cut anything,” said Reynolds. “I carry the first drawing she ever made me in my wallet. That’s the only thing I keep with me.”
The scribbled drawing, made by Ayla with the help of her grandmother in October of 2011 when Reynolds was hospitalized, is on both sides of a worn slip of paper that’s tattered and ripping along the folds. In one corner is Ayla’s name, written with toddler hands with the obvious help of an adult. Across the top is a message that still speaks to Trista, albeit now across years and from some unknown location where Ayla’s body is stashed. It says “Mommy I love you and I miss you.”
“It hasn’t left my wallet,” said Reynolds, carefully unfolding and spreading the fragile page on a knee. “It never, never will.”
http://bangordailynews.com/2017/09/25/news/mother-of-missing-toddler-ayla-reynolds-says-she-seeks-justice-not-money-in-probate-case/
ms.p
September 25, 2017 at 6:13 pm
From the same article.
Trista:
“She’s my daughter. She’s a human being. She’s a little girl. She’s a life,” said Reynolds.
ms.p
September 26, 2017 at 12:33 pm
http://www.centralmaine.com/2017/09/25/ayla-reynolds-mother-awaits-judges-decision-on-whether-to-declare-toddler-dead/
Ayla Reynolds’ mother awaits judge’s decision on whether to declare toddler dead
Posted Yesterday at 11:24 AM Updated September 25 Amy Calder — 861-9247 acalder@centralmaine.com
snipped:
Reynolds, who believes Mazziotti was receptive at the probate hearing, had hoped Monday a decision was imminent, but no decision was filed Monday by the probate court judge.
also snipped:
Efforts to reach Justin, Elisha and Phoebe DiPietro, and Roberts, have been unsuccessful.
“They are definitely really quiet,” Trista Reynolds said. “They’re definitely not talking. They definitely want to be left alone, but it shows how guilty they really are.”
Karen
September 26, 2017 at 5:24 pm
Trista talks about never finding Ayla.
That is so sad. To not know, or to not have a place, grave, something to represent Ayla’s resting place.
So sad!
ms.p
September 26, 2017 at 6:04 pm
So sad!
ms.p
September 27, 2017 at 10:59 am
This is a huge important decision. I hope today we hear something.
mountain mama
September 27, 2017 at 11:18 am
Me too MsP. I didn’t realize it would take this long.
barbarag816
September 27, 2017 at 1:08 pm
I keep checking the news for an announcement. Reading the articles about this made me pause and bless Trista & family. I am glad that she is finding some peace and moving on with her life for the sake of her boys.
Grace Wilson
September 27, 2017 at 1:23 pm
http://justiceforayla.org/ayla-reynolds-declared-dead-2/
CG
September 27, 2017 at 2:05 pm
http://www.wmtw.com/article/judge-declares-ayla-reynolds-legally-dead/12485172
mountain mama
September 27, 2017 at 2:08 pm
Thanks CG. I have mixed emotions. Prayers going up for Ayla’s loved ones.
barbarag816
September 27, 2017 at 2:08 pm
So sad, but hopefully this declaration can lead to justice for Ayla.
http://wgme.com/news/local/judge-declares-missing-maine-toddler-ayla-reynolds-legally-dead
ms.p
September 27, 2017 at 3:07 pm
Well it is official now. Adding my prayers for Ayla’s loved ones.
mountain mama
September 27, 2017 at 3:24 pm
Picked up by AP, should go national now. https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/maine/articles/2017-09-27/missing-toddler-declared-dead-order-opens-door-for-lawsuit
RIP Ayla
mountain mama
September 27, 2017 at 3:28 pm
I wonder what evidence?
The order was entered Wednesday by Probate Judge Joseph Mazziotti, according to a digital docket entry. It says that Ayla “died on or about December 17, 2011,” a determination Mazziotti made based on testimony by Reynolds, Lt. Jeff Love of the Maine State Police and evidence introduced at the hearing.
http://www.sunjournal.com/news/maine/0001/11/30/judge-declares-ayla-reynolds-dead/2207393
ms.p
September 27, 2017 at 4:05 pm
I also was wondering why Trista said (in at least one interview) that she does not believe Ayla’s body will ever be recovered? She said that like she has a reason to believe that other then feelings or people surmising or talking through the possibilities. Although I don’t question what she is saying in anyway,.. I keep trying to think and hope maybe, maybe, maybe.. i don’t know… But that was horrible news if she has a strong reason to believe that. I am so sorry she has to go through that too.
Karen
September 27, 2017 at 4:13 pm
They said blood was cleaned up and that was evidence?
I was wondering why she would never be found too. If they have something that shows she was put in the river would that be why Ayla would never be found?
I wonder what questions they will ask at trial? So much could lead this into a criminal case!
ms.p
September 27, 2017 at 4:37 pm
Karen, about Ayla never being found, all those river searches, that is a possibility that could be why.
ms.p
September 27, 2017 at 4:54 pm
http://www.necn.com/news/new-england/Judge-Weighing-Death-Declaration-for-Missing-Toddler-Ayla-Reynolds-446421673.html#ixzz4tVleTzUZ
Judge Weighing Death Declaration for Missing Toddler Ayla Reynolds
By Danielle Waugh * has a exclusive interview*
At the end of this interview, based on what State Police have told her and has shown her, she does not believe Ayla’s remains will ever be found.
ms.p
September 27, 2017 at 5:00 pm
sorry the above article and link are the wrong ones. this article has the interview.
“http://www.necn.com/on-air/as-seen-on/Mom-of-Missing-Toddler-Wants-to-Hold-Father-Accountable-447758303.html”
Mom of Missing Toddler Wants to Hold Father Accountable
By Danielle Waugh * has a exclusive interview*
At the end of this interview, based on what State Police have told her and has shown her, she does not believe Ayla’s remains will ever be found.
Anonymous
September 27, 2017 at 5:30 pm
I wonder how much of what was said on Nancy Grace will end up being spot on?
It seemed like things that searchers may have been told and then they told reporters?
No Blood. No party. Nothing bad happened.
I wonder if these things will be right or wrong?
What is the truth? I hope the civil case brings the truth out.
primarytchr
September 27, 2017 at 5:41 pm
Ayla being declared dead is the lead story on the six o’clock news here in Maine today.
So sad for her mom’s family. RIP little girl, you will see your mom again some day.
mountain mama
September 27, 2017 at 6:33 pm
Steve McCausland, spokesman for the state Department of Public Safety, said in a phone interview Wednesday afternoon that the probate court’s declaration of Ayla’s death is the same conclusion that authorities “reached in the early days of the investigation, as days led to weeks.”
“We still contend that the adults in the home that night have more knowledge than they shared with us,” McCausland said Wednesday.
Elisha DiPietro and Roberts did not respond this week to messages a reporter sent to them on Facebook. Phoebe DiPietro’s Waterville landline number is not in service and a telephone operator said Wednesday there was no number listed for Justin DiPietro, who is listed in court documents as now living in Winnetka, California.
Documents from Cumberland County Probate Court say an official in June served a notice of last week’s probate hearing to DiPietro at his California home, but DiPietro lied about who he was.
Nelson Tucker, a registered process server in Los Angeles County, served that document, armed with a photograph of DiPietro given to him by Childs. Tucker wrote in court documents that at 8:51 a.m. June 12 he went to DiPietro’s home on Lull Street in Winnetka to serve the papers.
“He denied his identity but he matched the photo provided by attorney for petitioner,” Tucker wrote in the documents.
http://www.pressherald.com/2017/09/27/ayla-reynolds-missing-since-2011-declared-dead-by-judge/
Karen
September 27, 2017 at 6:39 pm
Wow! Pretty low. Now he is denying who he is.
ms.p
September 27, 2017 at 7:16 pm
So glad Mr.Childs sent the picture. So glad Mr. Childs is on Ayla’s side.
mountain mama
September 27, 2017 at 9:40 pm
Family of Ayla Reynolds’ father reticent, neighbors react after judge’s ruling
http://www.wcsh6.com/news/after-judges-ruling-ayla-reynolds-family-refuses-comment-neighbors-react/479165038
mountain mama
September 27, 2017 at 9:48 pm
While the declaration does not guarantee the Reynolds family a win in the civil suit, it allows their lawyers to get people to testify under oath, which could bring new information.
The lawyers could ask questions that could lead to answers about if, and/or how Ayla died — even if those people plead the Fifth Amendment, which allows someone to not give up information that could incriminate him or her.
“The court can therefore draw an inference that the answer would have been ‘I did something,’ because you can only claim a Fifth Amendment right if the answer could hurt you, so in the civil suit, they can draw a negative inference if the work is done correctly,” said Burke.
Burke said that even if the court chooses to draw that inference, that information in the testimony could not be used in a criminal case against that person, but it is possible some details could give investigators new leads.
http://www.wcsh6.com/news/local/reynolds-legal-death-declaration-could-bring-new-leads/479145978
mountain mama
September 28, 2017 at 12:13 am
F. Lee Bailey discusses Ayla’s case in interview.
http://www.wcsh6.com/news/local/what-might-happen-next-in-ayla-reynolds-case/479215251
Karen
September 28, 2017 at 8:09 am
Bailey thinks a civil trial could provide a chance for DiPietro to try to prove he’s innocent.
“Ater six years of being under a cloud, he could do something about that if he chose to and that would be to take a polygraph test,” said Bailey.
I never thought of it that way. It could also give Elisha and Courtney a chance to prove they are innocent. I think everyone already took a polygraph but they could be open to telling what happened if they are innocent.
Karen
September 28, 2017 at 8:52 am
http://www.wlbz2.com/news/ayla-reynolds-paternal-family-break-silence-say-they-believe-shes-alive/479256456
Phoebe and Elisha say they believe Ayla is still alive.
mountain mama
September 28, 2017 at 11:27 am
If you think your granddaughter/niece is still alive, wouldn’t you at least show up at a hearing that is intended to have her declared deceased? Couldn’t they have contested it? Testified to why they think she’s alive?
ms.p
September 28, 2017 at 11:32 am
http://www.wlbz2.com/news/ayla-reynolds-paternal-family-break-silence-say-they-believe-shes-alive/479256456 *The same article Karen posted*
Just want to say to Phoebe, as the person who believed she had the right to just take Ayla – a human being – while her mother (Trista) was away, – as in not do things the legal way – and then also would tell Trista she was staying out of things when Justin the super dad would not take her (Trista) calls about Ayla, well you just ROCK as a grandma ! Phoebe Dipietro you really just ROCK as a grandma to Ayla !
So you know Ayla is out there? Really, you believe your kids? For starters you were invited to the events the Reynolds had for Ayla that you never showed up for. But, most importantly, why not show up in court and tell the judge what you know and believe? That is just nuts not to talk to the judge if you believe your own rhetoric !
Well Pheebs why don’t you really hire a private investigator? You said it, so why not do it? Trista had one why not you? How many times are you going to tell Maine you lost faith in the police but not do anything about a little girl just being out there?
You call Trista greedy ! God is listening and God knows the whollllle truth of you ! Even the real reason why you kidnapped Ayla to begin with !
CG
September 28, 2017 at 11:52 am
If they told the judge they believe Ayla is alive, they would have to answer questions under penalty of perjury. They could not choose what to answer and what not to answer. All that blood would have to be explained. I wonder why the reporters didn’t ask if she is in contact with Justin and knows why he didn’t contest.
ms.p
September 28, 2017 at 12:01 pm
And there you have it !
ms.p
September 29, 2017 at 9:54 am
On Facebook there is a person’s comment about how glad they are that Ayla has her mother’s name. They are so happy she does not have her father’s last name.
I could not agree more. I am so happy that Ayla always had her mama’s name.
ms.p
September 29, 2017 at 10:36 am
Watch the full story on ABC News “20/20” on Friday, Sept. 29 at 10 p.m. ET
Holly Bobo’s family will be interviewed.
Karen
September 30, 2017 at 7:21 pm
Will Trista have evidence for the civil trial or will the DA hold it?
ms.p
September 30, 2017 at 10:55 pm
That is a very good question. Since Lt. Love did testify at the hearing for Ayla’s death certificate and there was evidence presented, was any of that evidence states evidence? I sure hope the state will do or present any facts they can.
ms.p
September 30, 2017 at 10:47 pm
Petition update
Press Conference to be scheduled Tuesday (10/3/17)
Answers for Ayla
mountain mama
September 30, 2017 at 10:56 pm
Where is this from MsP? Is there a link? I found it. https://www.change.org/p/attorney-general-janet-t-mills-prosecute-justin-dipietro-courtney-roberts-and-elisha-dipietro-in-connection-with-the-death-of-ayla-reynolds/u/21526651
ms.p
September 30, 2017 at 11:58 pm
opps, i meant to put as a link.
ms.p
October 1, 2017 at 2:53 am
http://www.wcsh6.com/news/local/ayla-reynolds-paternal-family-breaks-silence-say-they-believe-shes-alive/479256430
Ayla Reynolds’ paternal family breaks silence, says they believe she’s alive
Snipped:
Elisha DiPietro declined a formal on-camera interview, but was adamant that Ayla is still alive.
“I refuse to believe my niece is dead,” Elisha DiPietro said.
Ayla’s grandmother, Phoebe DiPietro also told NEWS CENTER Thursday “we know” Ayla was taken from the home and that she does not care what the probate judge said.
Phoebe DiPietro also said Trista Reynolds, Ayla’s mother, “is greedy.”
“You think the judge knows if she’s alive?!” an emotional Phoebe DiPietro said. “No one knows what we live with.”
She went on to say the family has received death threats and that she has lost faith in police and wants to hire a private investigator.
“They didn’t put the damn Amber Alert out when they said the would,” said DiPietro.
NEWS CENTER confirmed that an Amber Alert was never issued. A State Police spokesperson said they believed her disappearance had been widely publicized, so an Amber Alert was not necessary at the time.
——————–
So when are they going to hire that PI? Phoebe criticizes the judge when Justin or she or Elisha didn’t testify in front of him? Sadly that just seems like another thing that does not pass the straight face test. They all know about the court date but don’t come to the hearing.
Karen
October 1, 2017 at 7:10 am
No, they did not show up at the hearing. They blame everyone else.
In the civil case they will be under oath. If there is evidence of enough blood that Ayla could not survive without medical attention, then whose fault will it be?
Some people still believe them so it has worked for them so far. For six years it’s been someone else’s fault and Ayla is alive out there.
We need TRUTH.
Anonymous
October 3, 2017 at 1:58 pm
I hope they hold that against them all for not showing up
Karen
October 1, 2017 at 9:59 pm
Saw this on Aylas Angels.
http://colbyechonews.com/mother-missing-waterville-toddler-receives-death-certificate/
ms.p
October 1, 2017 at 11:48 pm
Karen thank you for bring the link here too.
😦
By: Louisa Goldman on September 28, 2017
I don’t remember this part exactly. Was this the first, middle or last version the public was told. I do remember people everywhere were commenting on if people check on their children. I remember thinking no one puts a child down Ayla’s age without checking on them shortly to make sure they are alright and fell asleep. Because Lord knows what trouble they could be up to if they did not go to sleep. Or even just to tuck them back in after they go to sleep – especially in Dec in Maine.. And if Justin was all the way in the basement… we are suppose to believe people put their under or even over 2 years old babies down and then go down into the basement and never check on them? But ED decided to at 10? I wonder all what the police were told about this and E’s little one? So in this version E is the last one to see Ayla.
snipped as is: Knowing of her niece’s rambunctious personality, aunt Elisha DiPietro cracked the door open to make sure Ayla had indeed gone to sleep nearly two hours after her 8:00 p.m. bed time.
Karen
October 2, 2017 at 7:43 am
Justin asked Elisha in the 911 call if 10 was when she saw her.
On Justice for Ayla someone commented that 10 was about the time Elisha and her daughter got home from dinner with friends that night.
In news reports after after LE spoke with them they said 8 was the last time Ayla was seen.
Does anyone else rember all that? Maybe in the civil trial we will learn when Ayla was last seen.
kgwen
October 3, 2017 at 9:29 pm
God is d watching over our Ayla
mountain mama
October 3, 2017 at 9:32 pm
Yes He is Gwen.