'This should be a movie'

P - Ohio — Fri, 09 Mar 2007 23:54:16 GMT

I am privileged to know Melinda, Brooke and Clarence. I love them all and applaud all of their efforts to not just get through this horrible nightmare, but to be survivors!

God has continued to bless them as they continue to help other wrongfully convicted people.

www.freebobandrandy.com

'This should be a movie'

Deanna Mariol, Massillon, Ohio — Sat, 10 Mar 2007 15:54:31 GMT

How fortunate we would be if there were more determined people like Melinda Elkins who are willing to face the foe and stay the course for truth. Melinda is to be commended for her gusto, lauded for her persistance and admired for not taking 'no' for an answer in her pursuit to free her husband, Clarence. I have never met Melinda, but I have the deepest respect for her. From the day the news broke that Clarence Elkin's was arrested and charged in the death of Melinda's mother, in my heart I always felt Clarence was innocent. And, Melinda proved it! My wish is for the Elkins family to have peace, love and joy in their lives.

'This should be a movie'

Joseph J Clanc, Carmel, IN. — Sat, 10 Mar 2007 20:33:50 GMT

I'm priviled to hear of her story. God must be on thier side.

'This should be a movie'

Veronica Sanders Washington, DC — Sun, 11 Mar 2007 13:59:13 GMT

Yes, Melinda Elkins has been a blessing in my family's life. We are going through a similar ordeal and the Summit County officials, not just prosecutors, need to be investigated.

'This should be a movie'

Beth Itzkowitz, Framingham, MA — Sun, 11 Mar 2007 23:38:26 GMT

I believe that Clarence was somehow framed and that the evidence did not lead to his fingerprints. Somehow, I feel that more should have been done to determine who the real killer was.

'This should be a movie'

Beth M. Itzkowitz, Framingham, MA — Sun, 11 Mar 2007 23:48:15 GMT

I applaude Melinda for trying to prove Clarence's innocence. I believe that Clarence did not do the crime because there was a lack of evidence that proved that Clarence was somehow involved in the crime. With more specific testing, the real killer would be found.

'This should be a movie'

Linda Enke — Sun, 11 Mar 2007 23:52:29 GMT

What a totally incredible, inspiring story. NBC, I know this is not about money, a movie, and a book deal . . . but if anyone ever deserved one, it's this woman and her family. Do use your influence and connections to carry this story forward. What a pleasant alternative to supermodels! A real woman with real convictions and real intelligence. The story isn't over on Dateline, so I don't know the ending. I'm stunned that the judicial system wasn't obligated in any way to accept the new evidence. That's very disconcerting news and a new understanding for me about our judicial system.

'This should be a movie'

donna philadelphia, pa — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:07:06 GMT

why are the elkins divorced?

'This should be a movie'

jeremy maine — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:07:33 GMT

It is a sad story and its like watching my own life happen before me on tv. It is happening up here in Maine as well. A prosecutor got away with sending my innocent wife to prison, while the real killers of our son goes free.

'This should be a movie'

Name withheld by request. — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:08:24 GMT

Yet one more case showing how totally screwed up and ridiculous our so called "justice system" is. The police and prosecutors who convicted Clarence Elkins ought to be made to spend 8 years of their lives in prison for what they did to this man. But nothing will change. No one in our government really cares about people like Clarence or about creating a system that really works. No, it's just business as usual. Prosecutors and defense attorneys ought to be made to pay for every case they botch like this. The idea of ignoring evidence, having evidence thrown out, and other such shennanigans ought to outrage decent people. It is well past time that we begin to use the justice system as a means of finding out the truth rather than being a place where two people (prosecutor and defense attorney)contest each other to see who is the better man. This story made me sick to my stomach. And to add insult to injury, Earl Mann is still not being charged for this heinous crime, even though the best evidence available points directly to him. Disgusting.

'This should be a movie'

Renate Solomon, Houston, TX — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:12:06 GMT

In tears I just finished watching KILLER INSTINCT on Dateline NBC. Can someone please get me in contact with Melinda Elkins. I have been fighting since 1980 to bring a man to justice for which a black man has been on Georgia's death row for 21 years now. I have been doing the same thing Melinda is doing, just not going about it the right way. The man on death row was railroaded by two overzealous, young racist DAs, now judges six years after seven elderly white women in Columbus, Georgia were brutally tortured and then strangled. The only semen sample found at the murder scene miraculously disappeared, but they knew from the beginning that the semen and hair samples did not match the killers. Please, please, I need her help.

'This should be a movie'

thad teal — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:15:39 GMT

After watching the show I was in shock at how inept the police and prosecutor's office is in the county. Surely there can be something done to have those that handled the case dismissed for gross stupidity!!!!

'This should be a movie'

Connie Lanagan, South Sioux City, NEBRASKA — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:16:02 GMT

My heart went ou to Brooke. I cried when I heard her on the phone and no one to help her. How horrible for her. She has nothing to feel guilty about She was a little girl who only said it looked like her Uncle. God bless her, and all of them. What a horrible thing to happen to a family. I wish them all the best and hope that the family can get back together soon. Time to heal and I hope the real killer gets what is coming to him. Also his girlfriend. She knew all the time who did it. We all love you Brooke.

'This should be a movie'

Michelle - Summit County, Ohio — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:18:06 GMT

I also have been privileged to know Melinda, Clarence, their boys and Brooke. They're wonderful people and I love them dearly. I pray that the Summit County Prosecutors office moves to give them closure. Its way overdue.

'This should be a movie'

George, MI — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:26:00 GMT

This story sounds it was tried in wayne county, MI. I to was a victim of wrongfull arrest and malicious prosecution. I was a Professional Firefighter at the time of my arrest, which was great rating's in the metro Detroit area. I lost my job and my family begain a journey through the web of the justice system. It was a three year battle, and i prevailed. The TRUTH will set you free, but only with the Spirit of JESUS.

'This should be a movie'

Beverly Lewis, Plano, TX — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:26:23 GMT

I missed the end. Who did it and what happened after Clarence got out of jail?

'This should be a movie'

Linda Shields, Moline, IL — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:31:24 GMT

Amazing story. I applaud Melinda for fighting so hard for justice and applaud Clarence for making it though a violent, and at times, in-humane environment that most of us can't even imagine exist. My prayers are with little Brooke that she will forgive herself as her aunt and uncle have already done.

'This should be a movie'

kh — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:34:38 GMT

Kudos to Melinda for her continued determination in bringing Clarence's wrongful conviction to a close. I am completely disappointed with the Summit County Attorney's office, more specifically Sherry Bevan Walsh. The police department can be described in one word--LAZY! I would be ashamed to be a part of the detective team originally investigating the murder--they should all be fired--along with Sherry the Heartless!

'This should be a movie'

Kirstie Houghton. Hull, MA — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:38:00 GMT

I just saw the program on NBC where Clarence was found not guilty. As I was watching this, I realized that I had seen the documentary that put him behind bars. This was obviously a few years ago. I had sent some money to a fund that was trying to free him because I was so convinced of his innocence. After viewing the show tonight, I'm glad to see that he is free. I'm just sorry to hear that he and his wife split up. She was fighting so hard to set him free I thought that they would have lived happily every after.........A guess I'm just a dreamer...

'This should be a movie'

Bob Chorba, Milwaukee, WI — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:45:14 GMT

It is almost inconceivable that people such as Melinda, Brook and Clarence could come through their ordeal as well as they did, In thinking of Melinda I feel as Denzel Washington did of Julia Roberts/"Darby Shaw" in the "Pelican Brief", movie. As Newman doubts Darby's existence, saying: "She is too good to be true", Washington/ "Gray Grantham" responds: "She almost is".

'This should be a movie'

Bradford Roper — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:52:02 GMT

Amazing story, especially anyone who has been wrongfully accused. Why are the "trusted" district attorneys so unwilling to look at evidence and admit mistakes?

'This should be a movie'

Steve Russell Vancouver BC — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:53:26 GMT

It angered me to no end to think of how ridiculously stupid this case was. To think that a prosecuting dept and judge could have egos so big as to deny the truth as it lay before them. Rather than rant and rave and feel sorry for how redneck the Summit County judicial system must be I'll just say that they should all be out of a job. The prosecution team and judge should do the 8 years in prison that Clarence did, and forfeit all of the salaries they made while Clarence was serving "their" hard time to him. There need be no trial to see how much Clarence should get in compensation as he can't be given enough of the 10 million for which he asks. There needs to be some accountability here, and Summit County needs to get their heads out of their asses. Lock up the true criminals, the ones leaning back in their chairs, going home to their families every night and shoveling unearned steaks down their throats, while wiping dribbling wine from their chins with the cuffs of their long sleeved white shirts all the while telling their wives and friends how good they are. I would be ashamed to be from Summit County as those involved give all of us humans a bad name. Now wake up from your dream and go and charge the real rapist and murderer with the crime and while he should be stoned at city hall, so should those responsible for the indignity of this case. Shame on you Summit County, and although Dateline brings the story ... how can you not voice an opinion on such a travisty. With a voice as strong as yours ... you need to step up and put an end to this kind of injustice. Don't accept that the prosecution and judge don't want to talk on camera. Of course they don't and by not doing so is only an admission of their guilty role in their own stupidity. Go after them, follow them home, camp outside with your cameras and show the world how studid they are in their little lives. They don't mind destroying someone elses ... that's the real story.

'This should be a movie'

Marty — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:56:13 GMT

I also know of a case. This person has been in for 16 years. In his case it was two years after the fact between the crime and the false identification thru photo ID not a lineup. There is also a possible suspect in this situation.

'This should be a movie'

D, Barron, Baytown, Texas — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 01:04:45 GMT

If DNA wasn't an unbaised witness Clerance would still be in jail. The people we pay to keep us safe from predators all to often let them back out. In this case they had an unbiased witness that 100% true and choose not to listen (DNA). This cost the tax payers millions, this destoyed this family, allowed this evil doer to to continue and cost other families unspeakable suffering. Just because it was easier to not do the right things and follow the DNA evidence. Justice still has not been served even though the DA's office has been found to be incompetent at best and Evil at worst. But doesn't seem to want justice and I believe that is want is needed to do that job. We know evil is lurking in the shadows but does it have to live in the ones paid to protect us and they are not held accountable for their actions, preverted justice.

'This should be a movie'

Sally K — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 01:14:21 GMT

WOW- What an extraordinary story! May God bless this amazing family and continue to heal the pain and scars of their past. I am so angry at the incompetance of the county prosecutor and justice system! The prosecutor needs to be fired!! And the police department purged! I wish I were on the jury for the civil trial. I would award much more than $10 Million!! That gets me wondering, who were the original jurors that convicted Elkins? I remember being 5 years old and not even recognizing my own father because he had grown a full beard. What a horrible life altering impact their decision has made.

'This should be a movie'

Carrol Lindsay Chicago, Illinois — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 01:15:13 GMT

Without a doubt I agree the “Killer Instinct could be made into a movie or television series. Melinda I loved your unyielding determination to stick to your internal instinct. It also appeared that faith also guided your internal instinct to clear your husband name. What’s done in the dark will always come to the light…may God continue to bless you your husband even though you two are not together and your sons. The best is yet to come, continue to believe in God and pray daily. Melinda have you thought about studying law or becoming a defensive attorney? Carrol Lindsay Chicago

'This should be a movie'

Nancy D Barberton,Oh — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 01:15:42 GMT

I am very happy for Malinda & Clarence 's Family and Friends. What happened and how Malinda kept focused on this journey for the truth is amazing and a Miracle. This was presented very nice and kepted me on the edge of my seat. Thank you for showing us that Justice will prevail. Nancy D *(oh)

'This should be a movie'

Julie Chicago, Illinois — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 01:31:35 GMT

I am appalled by the lack of accountability and honesty displayed by the prosecutor/DA and the police. A scared six-year-old victim versus overwhelming DNA evidence concerning a known child sex offender who was next door!!!! It's lucky that he didn't finish the crime by killing little Brooke the next morning. And Clarence and Brooke are still suffering. A very compelling story!!

'This should be a movie'

Joe Camp,Pennsylvania — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 01:41:15 GMT

$10 million or $50 million wouldn't be sufficient compensation for the harm that the incompetent authorities in Summit County inflicted on these poor folks!! How do you put a dollar figure on taking away 8 years of this mans'life? Much like the Duke rape case,those involved with suppressing DNA evidence for political or more sinister reasons should not only lose their jobs but serve time themselves.

'This should be a movie'

Melinda Elkins, OHIO — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 01:57:31 GMT

Thank you to everyone who has posted I am so proud to be a part of the NBC story. I have one request.. I will attach the number to the Summit Co prosecutors office and I ask that you help me in putting pressure on them to step up their investigation...I am still seeking justice for my mom and my niece as you know. It is time to shake the truth out and let the one standing accused and found out through DNA to pay for his crime... Thanks to everyone and keep us in your prayers,, Summit County Prosecutors office 330-643-2800

'This should be a movie'

Greg Fitch, Boynton Beach, FL — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 02:22:58 GMT

I am originally from Ohio. I was deeply moved by the program documenting your false arrest and imprisonment. I salut your ex-wife for her dedication and fortitude. I celebrate your release and want to encourage you in your recovery time. I too admire your courage to move on when things did not work out in your marriage. God Bless! Greg Fitch

'This should be a movie'

Greg Fitch, Boynton Beach, FL — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 02:23:06 GMT

'This should be a movie'

Frank Lazarowicz, Coral PA 15731 — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 02:23:41 GMT

Was the DNA matched to only the DNA on the cigaret? remember the cigaret was submitted by the husband.

'This should be a movie'

W.C./San Diego/CA — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 03:09:26 GMT

When an individual's freedom is in the hands of such incredibly incompetent county officials, it affects all of us in some way. One word to describe the handling of this case: SHAMEFUL. My heart and prayers and best wishes go to all those in similar situations. Truly a troubling state of affairs. God bless Brooke, Clarence, and Melinda as they all struggle to heal. Each one is a remarkable person, each one's story touched my heart. God forgive the ones who even to this day STILL allow such a thing to go for so long.

'This should be a movie'

John Randolph, Houston, TX — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 03:12:27 GMT

I must have missed something. How did he get out of jail? Sara James stated that he was released after all the charges were dropped? What happened to the original conviction? Was it overturned? Was he pardoned? Did she explain that? I certainly was left perplexed.

'This should be a movie'

CINDY HOLMAN PANAMACITY,FL. — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 03:17:57 GMT

I THINK CLARENCE AND MELINDA SHOULD SUE FOR WAY MORE THAN 10 MILLION. THE PROSECUTOR KNEW HE WAS WRONG,BUT DID'NT WANT TO ADMIT IT. HE WAS MALICIOUS AND COLDHEARTED.SHAME ON HIM!

'This should be a movie'

Bob S., Olympia, Wash — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 03:34:15 GMT

As a former defense attorney, it is an all-too familiar refrain heard from prosecutors - "we have an eye witness" (even when she was 6 years old). Other evidence is ignored. Other potential perpitators are also ignored. There are so many victims in this story, but who prosecutes the prosecutors who made vitims of the Elkins? Every day a new story comes out about prosecutorial misconduct. About proseuctors ignoring overwheling exculpatory evidence. When will it all stop?As a former defense attorney, it is an all-too familiar refrain heard from prosecutors - "we have an eye witness" (even when she was 6 years old). Evidence is ignored. Potential perpetrators are also ignored. There are so many victims in this story, but who prosecutes the prosecutors who made victims of the Elkins? Every day a new story comes out about prosecutorial misconduct. About prosecutors ignoring overwhelming exculpatory evidence. When will it all stop? My heart goes out to all that suffered in this case. Yet the murderer hasn’t been charged. The prosecutor simply moves on to another case – possibly to violate someone else’s rights. The judge(s) shrug it off – after all, it was a jury verdict. This is why I am a FORMER defense attorney – I could not take it any more.

'This should be a movie'

ROGER SAADEH SANTEE CA. — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 03:54:56 GMT

I AM LOST WHY ARE THEY DEVORCING IS IT BECAUSE THE MOVIE DEAL OR THE MONEY HE GOT.

'This should be a movie'

Ken Wyniemko Rochester Hills, MI — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 04:00:25 GMT

A truly great program! I am so happy that Dateline took the time to expose the Elkins' story and I hope that they will continue to broadcast more TRUE stories of those who were wrongfully convicted and imprisoned. I am one of those persons. I spent nearly ten years in prison, in Michigan, for a rape and robbery I did not commit. I pray that Dateline will broadcast a show with all of the 196 DNA exonerees across the country to open the eyes of everyone in the United States of the massive and unjust failures in our criminal justice system.

'This should be a movie'

Gwendolyn Villavaso — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 04:00:37 GMT

It is a sad story of what that family went through. More investigation should have been done. I think the prosecutor should have been investigated. Melinda have you thought of becoming an investigator. That should be a movie. Gwen Villavaso Los Angeles , ca.

'This should be a movie'

L.R. , Houston, Texas — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 05:18:41 GMT

I Applaud Melinda for her tenacity and determination to fight for what was right. I know that there must have been many low points along the way and to keep going on going can take an incredible toll on someone who is fighting for what is right against a system that is so wrong. I too have been fighting a different kind of battle where the system failed to come to the aid of the very people it is set up to protect. It has cost me thousands of dollars. Everyday I wonder who helps the people who don't have any money to fight back? Someone should set up a foundation to help people like this. God bless you Melinda for doing what you did. You will have a star in your crown one day.

'This should be a movie'

Veronica Sanders, District of Columbia — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 06:07:17 GMT

Ken of Rochester Hillls has a good point. Dateline does their show, "To Catch A Predator." What about doing a show about those whose are wrongfully convicted and freed! Once again, thanks Melinda to your diligence and your refusal to accept "no" for an answer. Everyone's lives count. And no amount of money can repair the damage that the Summit County prosecutors did! And everyone, the Elkins were featured on American Justice. You can see just how the judge and proscutors really conducted themselves! Take care, Melinda and Clarence.

'This should be a movie'

Hazel L. Sanders, Washington, DC — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 08:40:22 GMT

I had the privledge of meeting Melinda and Brooke. Melinda is a very courageous woman. I am fighting the Summit County Justice system. I like Clarence was wrongfully accused of a crime I didn't commit. Also like Clarence I had the same judges and prosecutors in Summit County. I am still fighting because they continue to IGNORE THE EXCULPATORY EVIDENCE IN MY CASE. I like Clarence NEVER PLEADED GUILTY. God bless Melinda, Clarence and Brooke. I know how it feel because the Summit County Justice System is trying to silence me. And destroy my life. Melinda is a true champion of Justice. Melinda, Clarence and Brooke deserves closure.

'This should be a movie'

Alta Schaeffer Spokane Valley, Wa — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 08:45:22 GMT

I too believe that neighbor/girlfriend had to have been involved in a cover up. What person leaves a six year old covered in blood on her porch without calling 911? THIS SHOULD HAVE BEEN A GREAT BIG RED FLAG TO THE POLICE! Think about the blood that had to have been on this very evil man after committing this crime. I really don't think she messed evidence that her boyfriend had done something pretty horrible next door! HAD SHE JUST COME FORWARD, I THINK THIS INJUSTICE WOULD HAVE COME TO A END VERY QUICKLY. She should be prosecuted also! No one will ever convince me she did'nt know! How could she have not come forward, even with just suspicions? My heart goes out to all the family, and friends.. Thank God your free, at least of the prison walls.

'This should be a movie'

Steve Russell Vancouver BC — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 09:09:43 GMT

From the prosecution Summit County Prosecutor Sherry Bevan Walsh's comment to Dateline No Prosecutor ever wants an innocent person to remain in prison. However, it would be irresponsible to recommend the release of someone convicted of murder and rape without a careful and thorough investigation. Once our investigation was completed, we sought the immediate release of Clarence Elkins. Since that time, old evidence is being re-examined, and new evidence is being uncovered. We regret that we cannot provide the details of this investigation to Dateline NBC. Prosecutors are bound by ethical rules requiring us to first present our evidence in a courtroom to ensure a fair trial. Revealing details at this time may also jeopardize our ability to gain a conviction. We are continuing to invest time and resources to bring justice and closure for the victims and their family members. We believe justice will be served after the investigation is complete. The question of course to this bumbling group of "Keystone Justice Providers" would be ... "What about the INJUSTICE already served after their previous investigation was complete?" What could possibly take 5 or 6 years to investigate when they already had the real killer behind bars? Barney Fife would have known to stick a swab in a convicts mouth for DNA to prove or in all fairness, disprove his guilt. It's inconceivable that the Elkins had to covertly obtain a DNA sample. This case is so much of a laughing stock (had it not been so tragic), that it seems to be precident setting in determining that DNA should be inadmissable in court. I wouldn't trust this office to serve a summons for a parking ticket. I'm still shaking my head ...

'This should be a movie'

Jamie, Chicago, IL — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 12:12:06 GMT

My question is this; why did Clarence receive a life sentance and Mann is only in prison until 2009 - and he's a REPEAT offender! That is outrageous! There is truly something wrong with our justice system...

'This should be a movie'

P Vechery - Ohio — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 12:45:18 GMT

As personal friends of Clarence and Melinda, I would like to answer and put to rest some questions about their marriage ending. Every marriage is hard work - even on a good day. Think yourself about all the factors that they went through...murder, attack, rape, wrongful incarceration, bankruptcy, unemployment, lack of money, raising two boys alone, prison, etc etc etc. I think Melinda put it eloquently - she put everything she had into getting Clarence freed and finding the person who murdered her mother. That part still isn't over for Melinda because Earl Mann still hasn't been charged. Unfortunately, the marriage, and trying to maintain that marriage through all of these stress factors, came up as a another casualty in this PREVENTABLE CASE. People would like this to be a fairy tale story with Clarence and Melinda walking into the sunset living happily ever after, but life doesn't always work like that. Yes, it is sad and unfortunate, but to question, "Did she leave him because there was money?" GIVE ME A BREAK! That couldn't be furthest from the truth. The marriage is over and they are both moving on, but Melinda and Clarence will always be connected through their beautiful boys and grandchild-on-the-way. Don't judge - just pray for them and their lives. Thank you!

'This should be a movie'

Dave Mullin New Brunswick Canada — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 13:12:55 GMT

After watching yet again another bungled, missmanaged + perhaps corrupt accounting of the evidence/facts by our so called "justice" system It leave us even more disallusioned, frustrated + fed up with the system as a whole. Why is it that today in North America with all of our technologies + highly paid supposedly intillegent individuals that we employ to handle these matters that the average citizen seems to have more common sense + direction than those emploied to protect our rights + freedom. Its unfortunate that these missjustices occour in this day + age + need to be addressed at all. I have friends who refuse to watch the news or read a newspaper due to the frustration they are left feeling after doing so. My hat is off to you NBC for doing what you can to present + expose the facts to help right the wrongs. Perhaps our public emploies need to be reminded of the golden rule " do unto others as you would have them do unto you" OR perhaps they should consider "walking a mile in my shoes".

'This should be a movie'

John Story — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 13:47:12 GMT

I only wish that this story had a complete happy ending. Who did Melinda meet and fall for while her husband was in prison?

'This should be a movie'

Barb Pounders — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 14:22:55 GMT

The prosecutors have TOO MUCH power! They decide what they will charge someone with, how long the sentence will be, and as in this story, they do NOT care whether the person is REALLY guilty or not. They just want a CONVICTION to put a feather in their cap. They did it to me just so they could take away everything we owned that I had worked all my life for.

'This should be a movie'

Annette, Columbus, Ohio — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 15:24:49 GMT

My heart goes out to Clarence, Melinda and Brooke. We, too, are a family that does not have closure. My sister-in-law was shot and killed in Barberton, Ohio on Dec. 22, 2004. The case is unsolved with the Coroner's report stating the manner of death as "UNDETERMINED: Shot by unknown person". Our experiences with the Barberton PD & Summit County Prosecutor's office are very similar to theirs. Barberton PD did not even question any neighbors and the "investigation" was just a token investigation. The Barberton PD and prosecuting attorney do not solve crimes. If they did, the true killer of Melinda's mother would be on trial by now and my sister-in-law's murderer would be behind bars. The Barberton PD and Summit County Prosecuting Attorney need to be investigated to the fullest. I hope one day to see justice for Melinda's mother and for my sister-in-law, Veronica Ann Davidoff (Gnatowski).

'This should be a movie'

Sheletha A. Howard, Pennsylvania — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 15:27:45 GMT

I praise Dateline NBC for this story. The family went through such trails and tribulations in their lives to accomplish freedom, in a way they never would have without the will of God's grace and the support of Melinda Elkins. Thank you, Melinda for being a vessel for justice (Clarence) and the injustice of (Summit County). Shame on you Summit County and DA officials, you have managed to destroy and divide a family, I know you must sleep very well knowing your human error caused this trauma. Again, thank you Dateline NBC, for being a vessel of honesty and truthfulness. I am also in a similar situation, when an innocent family member is sentence to life term, with misconduct on the prosecutors, judge and police officers behalf in New Orleans, Louisiana. When will this Misconduct and Unequal Justice stop in the "Judicial System?"

'This should be a movie'

Ethylene Beard — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 16:24:40 GMT

We have the best 'system' in the world, but it is also only as good as those in positions of authority. As with any field, some employees are outstanding, others are not so good,others incompentent.... then character is also involved. Prosecutors are judged on their number of convictions. I think they lose sight of the whole picture and what the truth is...they just see angles of evidence that could result in a conviction. They should have a boss looking over their shoulders, but then the actual District Attorney is elected, so politics are also involved. The one I find most fault with is the JUDGE that refused a new trial based on the new DNA facts. Common sense was thrown out the window.

'This should be a movie'

Lesley, Melbourne, Australia — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 16:26:52 GMT

Amazing story. Your tenacity & courage is an inspiration, Melinda, in your quest for the truth to exonerate your beloved husband - against the implacable & coldhearted & definitely scary forces of so-called justice! Definitely a good idea to prosecute the prosecutors in a landmark case to 'encourage' all justice personnel to be more accountable, responsible and thorough! a truly inspiring story of great faith & love ! :} Completely understandable that the remarkable energy & focus that was necessary over such a protracted period ultimately changed the core of your central relationship/s. One prays for the healing of all centrally involved :} & continues also to pray that the murderer cum rapist will shortly be charged given the overwhelming evidence indicating the guilt of violent crime & the urgent necessity to protect others from a violent predator. Blessings & best wishes to all of you :}

'This should be a movie'

Becky, Boone NC — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 16:27:49 GMT

Where is the wacko lady who lived with the new suspect and she should be held accountable for her inhumane treatment of Brooke. Why is it taking so long to charge the man responsible for this? Please follow up with updates on this story.

'This should be a movie'

Janet Pokrinchak, Sarasota, Florida — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 16:55:44 GMT

The thing that really jumped out at me was the fact the neighbor left a little 6 year old covered in blood on her front porch until she was "able" to drive her home???? I wondered about it from the getgo and that should have been a real clue to the police too. Why on earth did they not investigate the neighbor's life and the facts re her common law husband??? Seems like they did not use any basic investigation techniques - just put the focus on one man and ignored other evidence. To say, Barberton police were incompetent is putting it mildly. I would like to know what kind of training they have and education levels.

'This should be a movie'

Phong Vu, Everett, WA — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 17:15:30 GMT

I would not hold the jury who convicted Elkins accountable since they probably were presented with biased evidence against Elkins. I just wonder who the judge that ruled "because prosecutors had convicted Clarence based on that compelling eyewitness testimony, a jury would’ve reached the same conclusion even if it had known his DNA didn’t match the killer’s." He should be thrown out of his office and should never be allowed to exercise law again.

'This should be a movie'

RYAN, LOUISVILLE, OH — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 23:09:36 GMT

I watched your show on sunday night and was very upset with how this family has been treated by the prosecutors of summit county,and barberton police dept.The prosecutors had less evidence on clarence Elkins when they stripped him of his freedom not by his choice but by our so called wonderful justice system. Then to be slapped in the face by yours truly summit counties prosecutor when they tell people they are investigating and doing everything they can to put this at rest. do they really think that people are that stupid? THE PROSECUTORS ARE STALLING IN THIS CASE, THEY HAVE WHAT THEY NEED TO GO FORWARD, YET AGAIN,THEY CHOOSE NOT TO AND IN RETURN THEY ARE DISRESPECTING JUDITH JOHNSON WHO WAS BRUTALLY ATTACKED,AND MURDERED.THEY ARE ALSO DISRESPECTING, CLARENCE,MELINDA,CLARENCE 11,BRANDON ELKINS,AND BROOKE

'This should be a movie'

Ruslan Vasyliv, Newington, CT — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 10:56:14 GMT

Quote "The prosecutors have TOO MUCH power!" - that is true, but most important prosecutors have nearly 0% responsibility for wrongdoing. And that not going to change for a while.

'This should be a movie'

Fred Avera, Dallas, Oregon — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 06:09:51 GMT

A compelling story, and a true miscarriage of justice for Clarence Elkins, but parts of it do not ring true. Specifically the correspondents statements about the basis of the judge's rulings in denying the petition for post conviction relief and for a new trial. So I searched and found the 9th Circuit Ohio Court of Appeals opinion on the case. It is clear from this opinion, "State v. Elkins, 2003 Ohio 4522, August 27, 2003", that the courts basis for the ruling was much stronger than the Dateline report would imply. This sort of coverage may result in an unfair depiction of the trial court in the case and lead to comments such as the one from the individual in Everett Washington above. Perhaps the prosecutor and judge deserve some condemnation, all I am saying is that this report does not convince me that they do. All that having been said, an amazing job by a very determined wife, and best wishes to Clarence in getting on with his life.

'This should be a movie'

Michelle Moffett, Corvallis, Oregon — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 10:24:35 GMT

I just saw this story on Dateline and I must say it's truly remarkable. It should be made into a movie. I love Melinda's determination on finding the killer and freeing her husband. I would have done the same thing if it were my husband and my mother was killed. I have really good detective skills by nature and if anybody can find anything it's me in the family. I would have done the same thing and worked on the case day and night.

It makes me sick how the whole court case was handled and that it went on for as long as it did with him not getting out of jail sooner. I might have sued if I were in their shoes.

Also, it saddens me that their marriage split up. I know we can't all expect a happy fairy tale ending, but for some reason I just can't understand why a woman who loves her husband as much as she did to struggle to free him out of jail all those years would just lose love for him after he is freed. I will pray for them and maybe by some miracle someday they will find love again.

'This should be a movie'

Carole Eastaugh — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 22:28:25 GMT

Is there a financial fund where people can contribute? Money now could help Clarence bebuild his life and the lives of those who stood beside him all through his nightmare.

'This should be a movie'

James H. West New York, New York — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 02:14:01 GMT

Melinda Elkins is an AMAZING individual. She is an inspiration to more people than she'll ever realize. Her formidable tenacity has made her the perfect example of the "power of one" -- I will remember the Elkins' story for the rest of my life. When our justice system fails as in this case, I'm at a loss as to why the individuals responsible for having made bad decisions are not held accountable. I've yet to hear of a single judge penalized for continually releasing egregiously dangerous repeat offenders who continue to rape and kill.... With the irrefutable evidence gathered by Mrs. Elkins in this case, it is DEPLORABLE that she was turned away by the courts time and time again. One would be hard-pressed to believe that the powers that be in this case were truly interested in JUSTICE. It's one thing to convict the wrong person, but it's the worst kind of insult to injury to refuse to seriously consider evidence that could prove that an incorrect decision may have been made. The judge in this case should be forced to hang up his/her robe.

'This should be a movie'

Mike Cleveland, West Salem Ohio — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 02:02:33 GMT

They divorced because this "modern day hero" lady, this "role model of the community" just so happened to "fall in love" with one of her co-workers. While she felt compelled to "keep her vow" to find her mother's killers, I guess some vows are a little less important. She is no hero!

'This should be a movie'

Dana Sharp — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:11:46 GMT

She also falsely claimed her boyfriend was violent/abusive. She left her family within weeks of her husband's release.

'This should be a movie'

lebron james, akron ohio — Sun, 18 May 2008 07:19:53 GMT

We love the barberton police, keep up the good work guys!!! god speed.