Death and the Beauty Queen

Amy Mire, Lubbock, TX — Sat, 03 May 2008 02:09:26 GMT

What song is Nona singing in the video clip? She had a beautiful voice!!

Death and the Beauty Queen

jeff smith, virginia beach, va — Sat, 03 May 2008 02:19:47 GMT

does anyone know the song she was singing at the beginning of the show?

Death and the Beauty Queen

Brandy, Nacogdoches, TX — Sat, 03 May 2008 02:38:01 GMT

How on earth, could someone think that boy would kill his girlfriend? Has anyone ever thought the step-father might have done it, or anyone else.....i cannot believe what i heard "i did not even think about it being kevin, until the police told me it was him"....."wouldnt it be funny if it was the boyfriend"....i would not be saying anything was funny. These cops just needed someone to blame. How stupid this, kid nvr looked like a killer.....and HOW DARE a stupid paper make it clear that he did it. Also anyone would go mad, if they were left in a room for hours...after just finding out that the love of his life was murdered. WoW dont go to Russelville...you might be convicted of a crime you did not commit.

Death and the Beauty Queen

PM — Sat, 03 May 2008 02:42:23 GMT

ANOTHER POLICE CORRUPTION CASE. THE PROSECUTORS SHOULD BE JAILED AN DISBARRED. THEY ARESTED THE WRONG PERSON AND BASIC PRINICPLES OF LAW BE DAMNED!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Annette, Lenexa KS — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:03:50 GMT

I think they should investigate the step father

Death and the Beauty Queen

Tonya Gladney, Summerville GA — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:05:33 GMT

When the stepfather said at the end of the show, that Kevin should "man-up" and admit killing her why didn't he ask about the unidentified finger prints and other evidence that proved Kevin is innocent.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Rodger Sides — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:05:41 GMT

Another example of Police and the local press looking for a quick and tidy resolution to an event neither are prepared to handle.All the while the guilty are given time to evade justice!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Nic Grainger Kingston On Ca — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:05:44 GMT

After watching your prog tonite.It seems that the correct verdit was reached.My impression was that the
Police of Rusellville wanted a suspect and went out of their way to find one

Death and the Beauty Queen

Roxie Bryant, Savannah, Georgia — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:05:57 GMT

When the murderer is found, will there be some way that the public is informed? I'm very interested in the outcome of this.
Thanks.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Terri, Shallowater, Texas — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:06:26 GMT

After watching tonight's report, I feel they need to check out the Step-father. I agree with the jury that Kevin didn't do this to Nona.may Justice come for Nona and may Peace be with Kevin.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Ruth Rance, Oklahoma City, OK — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:07:40 GMT

I watch a lot of detective programs on TV and my opinion of this case is that the CSI team wasn't called in to give the location a complete investigation. With that doubt in my mind, I would have given the young man a not guilty verdist.

Death and the Beauty Queen

vicarmbiti — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:07:43 GMT

I think it was the stepdad. Why was he given Nona's cell phone by police? Why did he erase all the calls and text messages from her phone? Did he read something before he erased it and used her phone for his own benefit? What a haunting story. I hope that the killer is found and that REAL justice is served.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Nikki Goodall — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:08:25 GMT

This was a sad story. How is it modern forensic solves several cold case files...and yet there are several families, towns and lives affected with this unsolved case? There def. should be a follow-up on the net or tv.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Anonymous — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:10:18 GMT

I feel terrible for Nona's family, but at the same time for Kevin also. He lost someone he loved too. I think he is innocent. The real monster will be found, they always do

Death and the Beauty Queen

Kristin, Brandon, Ms — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:10:20 GMT

I would just like to say, after watching tonight, I just couldn't see the Boyfriend being the suspect. In my opinion, He really loved her and I don't belive in my heart that he is the one who commited the crime. And also, the fact that no prints were taken any where else throughout the apartment. That is one thing that should have been done right away. No roensics were found, except for one print on the light bulb, and that being the boyfriends happened when he ran in after seeing her and tried to ressusitate her, pushed the lamp away. That one print was not sufficent evidence to try to convict him. He truely loved her, and someone is still out there, roaming and walking free. I hope that the true killer is found, and I hope that when that day comes, that that young man will get the apologies he so deserves from the people who continue to blame him...

Death and the Beauty Queen

Deb Perry, White Lake, MI — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:10:26 GMT

I'd like to know what the "new" evidence that has been turned over to the prosecution from the defense was? Can you tell us?

Death and the Beauty Queen

j williams — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:10:27 GMT

I would take a good long look at the stepfather.would love to know what he erased off the cell phone.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Nikki Goodall,Pocahonts,Ill — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:10:57 GMT

Death and the Beauty Queen

Linda, Washington D.C. — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:12:19 GMT

I just finished watching "Death of a Beauty Queen". I agree with the jury, the boyfriend DID NOT do it. It is clear the boyfriend comes from a descent family. I think the Step-father did it, it is written all over his face. Something is wrong with her family, when the mother was telling the story, she didn't have any emotion on her face, almost as though she was glad she was gone! Maybe the mother was part of the murder too - or just covering up for the step-father - you could tell by the look in her eyes. I just hope those defense attys hang in there, find the real killer and clear the boyfriends name!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Gary Richardson, Bradenton, FL — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:13:24 GMT

Very captivating story--at end of TV show, you said to go to this website to find more information.?
Am I missing something? Do you have more info?

Death and the Beauty Queen

Kay Hibbert, New York , NY — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:14:37 GMT

I'm so angry at this situation, because of the police mishandling of this case a killer is still out there! There was no justice for this young lady at all! Never would I have imagined in this day and age that police officers would be so untrained and biased. I am just digusted by this entire situation and I hope there will be a resolution. The police department and the lead detective should be ashamed, I am absolutely appalled at the way they conducted their investigation, if it can even be called that.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Faith Malek — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:15:07 GMT

Does her step-father look suspicious because the memory of her cell phone was erased? Maybe he killed her, for his own secret reasons.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Melissa LaGrone, New Bern, NC — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:16:49 GMT

I believe that justice wqs served in that Kevin is not guilty. As I watched the show I could not believe the look that Nona's mother had on her face. She always had a little smile on her face and did not seem upset at any point, as did the step-father. I wonder what do they really know?

Death and the Beauty Queen

stealthflyer st paul minnesota — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:16:52 GMT

Anyone that would talk to the police, without a lawyer present is a fool. This show goes to show the lengths the police will go to , to make the evidence say what they want it to. The stuff they pulled in the interrogation of him, should be considered criminal. I still don't understand how the police can go into a situation and get away with saying they have evidence and they have nothing. So people out there heed my and my lawyers warning anytime the law wants you to in for a few questions don't do it because all there trying to do is get you to incriminate youself .

Death and the Beauty Queen

Terri Denty ,Harpersville,Alabama — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:20:35 GMT

I just finished watching the show, I am glad the jury had the courage to come back with a not guilty verdict, with all the bad press against the boyfriend.
That is one of the main reasons you hear of people being found not guilty after spending years in prison.
The press attacks someone just to sell papers not tell facts. How could anyone possibly convict the boyfriend when someone else's prints where on the murder weapon. Thank GOD for the boy the trial was moved to another town. I applaud the jury for not letting an innocent boy go to jail, dealing with the facts not emotions.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Mary Cole Nashville TN — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:20:56 GMT

I don't think the bf did it. I think the stepfather either did it or had it done. Like the cell phone battery issue. There are probably others that the police did not investigate. They may never find the real killer due to the lack of evidence taken at the time. Can't they compare some of those prints to the stepfather or the national dna database now?

Death and the Beauty Queen

SD,Chicago,IL — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:22:52 GMT

I just watched the special about Nona and the second I saw the step-dad I knew he killed her.The mother let her daughter get rapped by her biological father.
The mother came off as almost laughing about her daughter's death.I did not get one caring feeling from either the mother or step-dad.Why did Nona move out to an apartment as soon as the step-dad moved in???The person who killed her had to be someone she knew so they killed her so she would not tell.The step-dad's alibi was Christmas receipts who's to say he made the purchase???Why did he need her phone,frugal(and he erased evidence)!!!How could anyone not see this man was more of a suspect than the boyfriend ever was!!!The mother is acting as a victim,but she I bet money if she took a lie detector test knew her daughter was being assaulted and knows about the step-father too.She showed no remose,just pointing fingers at Kevin..Police need to put those two in a room and question them!!With every fiber of my being I know they are guilty!!!

Death and the Beauty Queen

debra saxon, richardson, texas — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:24:53 GMT

I just watched this episode and am left with a million questions....especially about Nona's own family. Did it seem strange to anyone out there that Nona's mother seemed to be smiling throughout the entire interview? Or that Nona's Stepfather erased the memory of the phone of the stepdaughter that was murdered? Of course, I have not seen all of the evidence, nor am I in anyway educated in law or legal proceedings, but my gut instinct is telling me to look at her family for answers...there might be more there than meets the eye!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Elisia G, Chicago,IL — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:26:37 GMT

I just finished watching the Nona Dirksmeyer murder...why do I have a feeling that Kevin's friend (pizza guy) has something to do with her murder? Kevin supposedly told his friend to go "check up on Nona to see if she's OK"....maybe he's the one who supposedly had this "affair" with her?? I don't know, but the friend, in my opinion, would be suspect number 2 most definitely!

Death and the Beauty Queen

.H.C.Cutrer Dripping Springs,Tx — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:28:29 GMT

Evidence is the name of the game.I could never have convicted him either.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Tiny Ontero NYC NY — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:28:38 GMT

I think another look at the uptight Stepfather couldn't hurt.

Death and the Beauty Queen

John Griffin Monroe, NC — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:29:12 GMT

It appears that law enforcement in this case failed to properly secure the crime scene and lacked experienced homicide investigators. From your report there seeemed to be plenty of evidence to conduct a more through invesigation. A young girl lost her life thats sad, however with evidence presented jurors returned a correct verdict.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Sylvia Slife,Celina,Ohio — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:29:27 GMT

I feel there should be some investigation into the family of Nona.She started cutting herself after the death of her father that she said had sexally abused her.
There was a problem with when the step-father took a cell phone with blood on it away from the scene of her murder.There is something wrong with this picture here.I'm a parent,I wouldn't of touched anything let alone took something from the scene.Then he removed the memory card from it and there no way to get that back.I find something wrong here.Maybe its just how messed up these officers did there jobs but come on.There has to be alook into other people please someone do there job.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Dateline Editor — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:31:27 GMT

The song she was singing at the beginning of the show was "Time to Say Goodbye" by Sarah Brightman.

Death and the Beauty Queen

K, Russellville, AR — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:31:43 GMT

I wonder if Nona's mother actually cares about her or just loves the publicity. She wouldn't even go see her during the family night at the Miss Arkansas Pageant. I don't personally know the lady but I know that she didn't seem to care about her daughter when she was alive. Maybe I am wrong.. but I don't think so.

Death and the Beauty Queen

CJL/MOUNT AIRY/NC — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:33:29 GMT

My heart goes out to NONA she needs closure. I'm fully convicted that stepfather is very weird and so is the MOM! If the stepfather wasn't hiding something why in good faith would you tamper with the only evidence that you truely have, NONA's cell phone and the MOM and STEPFATHER both seem like they had no remorse. NO tears were shed and mom smiled during the entire show..Stepdad very guilty in his actins and the whole 8 cellphone trys the day of NONA'S murder. I sincerely hope the convict the MONSTER!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Musician, Ohio — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:33:33 GMT

The song she was singing was Time to Say Goodbye, made famous by Sarah Brightman and Andreas Bocelli

Death and the Beauty Queen

Elizabeth Shumate, Vanceburg, KY — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:34:34 GMT

I just finished watching the show and I must say I am still reeling from the almost sinister behavior of Poor Nona's mom and step-father. Hardly could I believe my ears at his remark about their relationship" distant but cordial....not his job to raise her" Both individuals acted as if they were being interviewed about someone they didn't even know..little else their daughter.
I believe that Kevin is completely innocent and feel sorry for he and his family for having to go through such an ordeal especially considering they seemed to care for Nona as one of their own more than I can say for the family who doesn't seem to miss her.

Death and the Beauty Queen

K, Russellville, AR — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:38:33 GMT

Funny how nothing was mentioned about the mayor's son and Nona's finances.. how much money she had. etc.. is it small town talk? I don't know...

Death and the Beauty Queen

Lily Albertson — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:38:35 GMT

After watching Dateline tonight; what struck me as totally odd was the fact there was no emotion shown by Nona's own mother and stepfather in talking about her death. I know that after my brother died years ago even talking about him years later brings my mom to tears of remembrance. Yet they both smugly tell how they believe it was their daughters very own boyfriend of several years...that killed her. My question is this; did her mother who allowed her only daughter to be raped by her father have life insurance on Nona? And was she the beneficiary?

Death and the Beauty Queen

J. Krehbiel, Wichita, KS — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:38:47 GMT

I, too, found the mother's demeanor rather odd and the stepfather very rigid. People tend to marry people with the same issues when they remarry. I applaud the jury for their gumption with such pressure to convict.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Nancy Ham, St. Louis, MO. — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:39:47 GMT

I was watching the show tonight,Death and the Beauty Queen.While watching it two things stuck out making me think the stepfather should be considered a suspect. First his wife, the victims mother, stated that he (the stepfather) had called her at work 8-10 times that day even though he rarely calls her at work. Second, NO ONE is that 'frugal' to use a murder victims phone to save money. What is wrong with the mother? That poor girl had a short and painful life, being molested and then brutally murdered. Look into the stepfather's story.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Karen W., Harrisburg, PA — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:39:56 GMT

While watching the story tonight, a comment made by Nona's step-father literally caused me to jump up from my seat. During one interview he said, "Wouldn't it be funny if it was the boyfriend?"
That strange comment made all the hair on my neck stand up! "Funny"? That's not a word one would normally use about a person you suspect murdered your family member. Why did he think it would be "funny" if it turned out to be Kevin?
I find that statement very disturbing and quite frankly, thought his and Carol's demeanor rather flip and non-emotional for having lost their child in such a brutal way. Their comments and body language were funny, as in odd. Perhaps Kevin's attorneys should have behaviorial specialists watch your story.
Funny? Something is funny (again as in odd), about the entire investigation or rather, the lack thereof. Yes, there should be justice for Nona but I don't think there will be until this close-minded town, the police and the local media opens their eyes to the fact that the real killer is still among them.

Death and the Beauty Queen

louie,denton tx — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:41:19 GMT

i think if anyone seemed heartless or not phased by it,it was the mom and stepdad a little weired if you ask me about the phone if you remember at the beginning nona and relationship was a distant one...why would they give the phone to him? and the dumbass mom already let her daughter get molested and didnt kno anything about it who's to say she wouldnt end up with another sicko,she seems dumb,and the dad seems a little odd and kiniving,they really need to get better police officers in these little hick towns cause it makes me sick to my stomach to keep hearing about these witch hunts in these towns,go back to the academy.
RIP nona and hopefully they catch your killer,until that moment comes may god bless your soul.

Death and the Beauty Queen

bj, Detroit, MI — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:41:24 GMT

We just watched this, and we KNOW the stepfather did it. In fact, I think Nona was molested by her stepfather, not her dead biological father. She was probably so tortured by her stepfather's attacks that she eventually had to talk about it to her boyfriend...but was too scared to tell the complete truth so named her dead dad to prevent legal action or retaliation. But when she was forced to tell her mom about it, the stepfather got scared and killed her. It seems so obvious! That's why she moved out of the house as soon as he moved in. That's why he took the cell phone.
Please continue to follow this story!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Callan Carter, Baton Rouge, LA — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:41:46 GMT

Why is Nona's mother so freakin happy all the time?...Everyone around her has died!!! First, her husband, then, her only daughter. And all she can do is smile!!???!!! Nona's mom and stepdad need to be looked at more closely.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Scott O'Brien, Wichita Falls, Texas — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:41:59 GMT

It would seem the defense of Kevin summed it up pretty well, everyone involved in the investigation of this tragic death was and still appears to be suffering from Russellvision. From what was presented as the defense's case; it would appear this small town police department really screwed the pooch on this case. No modern forensics were employed and it seems they let the opinions of the press dictate just where this case was heading. If I had been the prosecutor there would have had to have been a whole lot more evidence supporting the police's case. I would have been demanding the officer's head on a platter for apparently doing such a poor job as an investigator; and the Chief of Police would have been awswering a few questions him/herself.
As for the Stepfather and the cellphone, that is a very suspicious subject. Why was the phone wiped but no new info entered, it showed the address page as empty. It took me a year to figure most of the features of my phone out, he did a good job of clearing a phone with no manual in a very short period of time. Besides the biological father abused her and the mother didn't know till after that monster died. Maybe he's not such a saint as they think he is, after all he was the first to raise the spectre that the death might have been caused by the boyfriend. The girls mother knew Kevin longer then the new husband but she was faster then a speeding bullet in thinking he possible could have done it, even with the alibi's presented by the defense. Not saying the new husband did it mind you but it does raise the concept of Reasonable doubt" to a whole new level.
If the defense says they found DNA on the evidence and it didn't match their client, shouldn't the state inmediately if not sooner, have run that DNA info against the states offenders database, just to see if a possible hit surfaced? I know for a fact that when other states started using that technology, all the states jumped on the bandwagon and started DNA sampling all felony convictions and maintaing a database on them. Seems kinda odd that so many balls were dropped.
I hope they do finally find the killer of Nona and if its someone other then Kevin I think a whole section of Arkansas will owe him a really big apology, he should expect nothing else.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Anna McCauley — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:42:19 GMT

I am pleased that Kevin was set free, this young man did not do it. I see other's have noted the Step Father, I agree something is messed up here. However, did anyone else see that the Mother showed not emotion at all!!! I have two daughters and if something like, and if anything similar ever transpired, I do not think I could talk about it without breaking down.
This woman never batted an eye, showed no sense of suffering a loss. She seemed Hard...

My take is the Mother, blamed Nona for both men molesting her!!! I think she is the one that needs to be investigated.

Death and the Beauty Queen

S Ewing, Indpls, IN — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:42:32 GMT

I truly believe it was the stepfather and the mother knows it. His alibi was Christmas shopping with receipts. He could have gotten them out of the trashcan at any shopping mall. Plus, didn't the mother say he called her an unusual amount of times at work that day, possibly to cover his tracks. Whole thing seems strange to me. Stepfather also said relationship was distant, but cordial. Not a close family tie. Police should start in their own backyard. To many things point to her family.

Death and the Beauty Queen

rw — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:43:10 GMT

WOW...The Police that questioned Kevin and played all the mind games should be FIRED and have all certifications revoked. The cops in this town are a REAL JOKE and an embarresment to the Law Enforcment Community.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Brian Mendleson Xenia Ohio — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:43:22 GMT

I just got done watching the story the small minded comunity police really baffles me how can a police force that has no homicides not ask for help I know they want to be the big boys in the yard and prove it themselves but come on they didnt fingerprint anything but the murder wepon and then they didnt follow the evedince of the fingerprints that were CLEARLY not the bf's Also what was up with the condom wrapper first the police say it was planted by the bf then they say he came to the apt and saw the condom wrapper on the counter and flew into a rage GET THE STORY RIGHT this story kinda remindes me of anouther Arkansas case in West Memphis of the West Memphis Three Damian Echols Jason Baldwin and Jessie Misskelly Jr. who were tried and convicted of mudering 3 children all because the police wanted to quickly solve the case it is sad that small town police SCREW UP the case by not looking for other suspects or just ignoring them as in this case when there was a rumor of a man seen leaving his gf's house ohh well Im glad he was found innocent as well he should have just reminde me NEVER to visit Arkansas

Death and the Beauty Queen

Barbara Wolf, Corpus Christi, TX — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:44:37 GMT

I am a watcher of true crime shows and never before have I had chills run over me like they did when the 911 tape played. I heard raw emotion. I, too, wonder why the mother of the victim seemed cheerfully self-conscious, but wonder if other footage of her exists. But, whoa! Why indeed did the stepfather erase the cell phone messages? Frugality? Cell phones are virtually free. As the mother of a teenage girl I know that if I lost her I would preserve the last messages of her life until I died. Fishy.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Sheila Azutillo, Miami, FL — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:45:08 GMT

I've just watched this episode a few minutes ago, and I must say, it was rather surprising that anyone at all bought the prosecution's arguments.

I may just be a junior in highschool, but for someone who's currently studying law, has a family member that has worked for the government, is aspiring a career in forensics, and underwent hours trying to figure out how to write a debate, I foresaw the jury's decision... and I am very glad that they saw what I have seen.

I wasn't surprised when the PD decided to interrogate Kevin first. After all, he was the one who found her. However, when they kept him in the room for hours, I became skeptical. I'm pretty sure that wasn't suppose to happen.

And then, there came the evidence. There wasn't much blood outside the immediate crime scene, I believe, but that does not mean there are no prints all over the place. I was waiting for evidence stating that they printed the sliding doors, that they searched the place for footprints, that they searched the apartment top to bottom, and so on. But I only heard about the evidence near Nona's body.

Prosecution says that they've found Kevin's prints near her. No, duh. He found her, he tried to revive her, he was trying to figure out what happend; I would be surprised if he has no prints there. But what about the sink? I'm sure he wouldn't wash his hands if he's frantic seeing Nona's body lying in a pool of blood. But the killer would have to clean himself up. How about footprints from the victim's body to the bathroom? There's an empty pack of condom, after all. How about Nona's cellphone? If the battery was missing, the inside of the cover should have prints.

It became evident to me that the PD didn't look at the situation objectively. They acted upon emotion. They've already formed conclusions even before they looked for evidence. It seems that they just wanted to finish the case so they could go home already.

It's pure BS.

My suspicions became even stronger when the memory of Nona's cellphone was completely erased. No offense to anyone, but when your family member is killed and you find their cellphone lying around, I don't think you should use it. I mean, I would rather keep it as a memoir. My own cellphone issues wouldn't matter. But that's just me.

There was also the incident with the polygraph. Even if the investigator said he hasn't seen anyone fail that bad, I would ask for the hard copy of the polygraph data. The credibility of the one who took the polygraph test was also befuddling. Why would anyone let him take it if he's not authorized to take it in the first place?

And then they questioned grandma's credibility. Yes, it is possible for any family member to lie so they could save a kin. But it is highly unlikely that she would lie. It's this thing called "aging out," and it says that as someone gets older, it's unlikely for them to commit a crime. I'm sure it's the same for lying. If they really do doubt her, why don't they check the store's surveillance? Or maybe ask other witnesses.

Most of all, why was Kevin the only one interrogated? They said that the others had alibis, and they didn't question them. So why were they questioning grandma's credibility? And even if the others DID have an alibi, I would still prefer if they were interrogated and make sure that they are not lying.

I do hope that the Dirksmeyers and the Joneses wouldn't have a feud over this. Yes, she was murdered. Yes, he is a suspect. But the novice method that the investigators took shouldn't fool them. Anyone, regardless of their experience, should be able to point out what the investigators did not do. If they're scared of another OJ Simpson case, then they should get an equally competitive prosecution team and at least make a more decent investigation.

As for Nona, I hope her true killer would be found so her soul may be put to rest. And as for her mother Carol, I do hope she gets an answer and a closure.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Anna McCauley — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:46:54 GMT

I am pleased that Kevin was set free, this young man did not do it. I see other's have noted the Step Father, I agree something is messed up here. However, did anyone else see that the Mother showed no emotion at all!!! I have two daughters and if something like this ever transpired, I do not think I could talk about it without breaking down.
This woman never batted an eye, showed no sense of suffering a loss. She seemed Hard...

My take is the Mother, blamed Nona for both men molesting her!!! I think she is the one that needs to be investigated.

Death and the Beauty Queen

beulah marion ohio — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:49:35 GMT

I think the not guilty verdict was correct. I fell
Nonas Mother and setpfather should be investigated.
Her Mother did not show any sorrow and her setpfathers
getting possesion of her cell phone sounds strange.

Death and the Beauty Queen

beulah marion ohio — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:50:49 GMT

I think the not guilty verdict was correct. I feel
Nonas Mother and setpfather should be investigated.
Her Mother did not show any sorrow and her setpfathers
getting possesion of her cell phone sounds strange.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Frank, Springfield, PA — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:53:00 GMT

I just can't believe the way this investigation was conducted. If the police were going to "start ruling out suspects", why not begin with the family. There's something odd about the smiling mother, and way to casual step father. They need to start there for answers.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Anonymous — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:53:41 GMT

Poor Nona. She was molested as a child; her mother remarried a man she didn't get along with so she moved out of her home; she was brutally murdered; her boyfriend was accused of her murder then acquitted; her murderer has not been found. Meanwhile, her stepfather's possession of the cell phone is suspect. Bet we'll find out something's wrong with him before Dateline wraps this story up. With Nona's history of abuse perhaps there was a reason for her to leave home. And what mother could be smiling when talking about the details surrounding her daughter's death? I found this both disturbing and bizarre. Between the mother,Carol, and her new husband, something isn't right. Add to the mix the inept investigator who had never conducted a homocide investigation before and it all added up to disaster for Kevin. Thank God the jury was made up of people who listened carefully to the facts and weighed what evidence there was.

Death and the Beauty Queen

AR, Atlanta, GA — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:03:42 GMT

I trust the jury. I'm sure there were things that the episode didn't present that cast additional suspicion on Kevin, but the jury had to live through that trial moment-by-moment, and I believe they're good people and made the right decision. Justice doesn't mean somebody gets punished for the crime; justice is when the criminal gets punished.

But what I really want to say is that I'm a little shocked at how quickly people can jump to the conclusion that the stepfather did it, or that Nona's mother was involved, etc., just based on the way they look or their mannerisms or because "you can see it in their eyes."

The two big tragedies of this story were the murder itself and the apparently wrongful prosecution of Nona's boyfriend, the latter arguably the more tragic of the two because the suspicions cast on Kevin continue to this day. Nona's family still proclaims that they "know" he did it, just the way some comments here claim to "know" that some other suspicious-looking person did it.

It's like all of us who watched the show are on a witch hunt seeking vengeance for the injustice done to Kevin. The thing is, we're falling into exactly the same mentality that caused that injustice in the first place!

If we convict people in our hearts based only on their quirks and mannerisms and a few threads of circumstantial evidence, we're no better than the detectives and prosecutors who railroaded Kevin.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Bubba Earl, Fort Worth, Texas — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:04:22 GMT

I grew up in Dardanelle, a small town right across the rive from Russellville, and I can't believe even in a small town like Russellville, in this day and age, that the local Law Enforcement would be so inadequate in their persuit of a suspect. Their handling of the evidence and lack of evidence gathering is outright shameful. Especially when they were so focused on condemming an innocent young man. It was obvious what was happening. I have a problem understanding how the Judge in this case would allow the Russellville Newpaper place a newspaper dispenser in front of the courthouse while the trial was in session. Doesn't that negate the very reason the trial was moved to Ozark for trial! I think the Russellville Police Department needs to be investigated for their criminal handling of the entire case.

Death and the Beauty Queen

michael, norfolk va — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:04:51 GMT

The local law enforcement should stick to what they do best...write traffic tickets for revenue. Gross and horrific incompetence from the local police. Sad and disappointing but quite common. All should be fired and not allowed in public service in the state of Arkansas.

Death and the Beauty Queen

kerry — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:08:14 GMT

I agree with so many of these comments, but have some major questions...what is this talk of the mayor's son and Nona's finances? Do tell! And why hasn't anyone mentioned the family spokesperson who was apparently related to the father that molested her. What is his story? Poor Nona. What a sad story for both her and the boyfriend. I'm a new parent and I could never imagine being so cold in discussing my only child's murder. Although, I can't imagine how anyone could possible not know their husband is molesting their child either. HELLO! I know it happens, but I'll never understand it.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Tim, Nampa, Idaho — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:11:52 GMT

It seems strange that no mention was made of Nona's phone records (unless I missed it). My montly cell phone statement shows every call I make and receive and I'm sure text messages could be tracked the same way even if they were erased from the phone.

I agree that Nona's parents didn't behave as I expected during the interview. It reminds me of that case about 10 years ago where the mother drove her car into a lake with her two kids inside and then said they were kidnapped.

This truly is a tragic story and I hope the real killer is found quickly.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Lisa Railey, Albany, GA — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:16:20 GMT

I was disturbed by Nona's sudden decision to move out soon after her mother married. Her step-father's statements regarding his parental relationship with her were troubling which led me to believe that they did not have a good relationship. Furthermore, the revealation that he waisted no time in deleting Nona's text message responses from her cell phone after the police returned it him, sent up an instant red flag. I felt that he was a suspect that needed to be thoroughly investigated. I also feel that Nona's mother is too close to him to see things from an objective point of veiw. This could be very dangerous for her if he is the murder and she came across evidence that linked him to the murder. Additionally, his frugal excuse for taking her cell phone to use as his own was extremely unconvincing. I feel that he intercepted the phone to destroy self incriminating evidence. Although he says he just happened to be out Christmas shopping when she was being murdered and he has receipts to prove it, does not prove that he was the person who actually made the purchases. Early in the interview, he revealed his need for control when he stated that no one should be out of the house past 10:00 and he locks the doors by 9:00. I feel that the boyfriend was setup by the step-father who was actually the jealous, controlling and violent one.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Anonymous, Colorado — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:17:50 GMT

Maybe there is more to the story of why Nona left her mom and step father's home.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Rosanne, Staten Island, New York — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:28:42 GMT

I am glad others see what I see. The mother and step father both are haunting me tonite. I have never seen such a happy "mother" and her miserable husband.
He was being frugal by taking her cell phone.....I think he did it and the mother knows it.

Death and the Beauty Queen

carol smith detroit,michigan — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:28:45 GMT

whats the new evidence the defense attys presented? and
yes often the mother knows whats going on and just as often blames the girl and sides with the man (father, step, boyfriend) so sorry for nona.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Ms. Rose, NY, NY — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:33:12 GMT

Commenters on this page and the comments page of the article from Russellville both mention something about the mayor's son. Can someone from the town please go more into details. Also, what was wrong with Nona's family. I must say, I never rarely ever watch any crime shows but I am convinced that this is a big cover-up by someone with enough power and connections to do it.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Randall Myrick, Dixon, KY — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:34:54 GMT

I would hope the State Police pickup on the new investigation with the Special Prosecutor and new evidence mentioned at the end of the program. Was the bar used to hold the sliding doors in the apartment? Were neighbors checked out? Did Nona work or go to college? Cell calls stepdad make to mom are suspect.

Death and the Beauty Queen

MG, Chicago, Il — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:35:57 GMT

It doesn't take Columbo to figure out that this kid is innocent and that the investigation was blotched from the beginning. The police already had there killer named before even processing the evidence. I found it interesting that the mother showed no grief during her interview and it seemed as though she rushed to judgement in accusing the young man. Was there a reason for this? Perhaps she is protecting someone.Her husband seems like a cold hearted bastard. The only person who showed any emotion during the interview was Kevin. Even the uncle from Texas seemed cold and heartless.Is the uncle the brother of the accused molester father? Did they ever consider that the uncle had any involvement? Was there any motive in suspecting Kevin? Had the couple been fighting prior to the killing?It saddens me to see such a beautiful girl with such amazing talents to have such a tragic life, from the molestation she suffered at the hands of her father to her brutal murder. it saddens me to know that police, the ones who are suppose to "protect and serve" the community had to resort to such low standards while undergoing their "so called" investigation. I hope that this girl's killer is found and justice is served not only for her but for Kevin also. Lastly, shame on all of the people who are so quick to judge and convict.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Brian P. , Austin, Texas — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:37:26 GMT

Well it seems pretty much a given that most folks think the stepfather is guilty. He certainly has a creepiness to him that I found unsettling as it appears so did several of the viewers. I would hope the police try investigating him instead of Nona's boyfriend. There were so many clues dropped during this show about the stepfather's bizarre behavior, that it certainly would make him my prime suspect if I was the DA investigating this case.

Death and the Beauty Queen

L,best — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:37:28 GMT

I donot understand such poor investigating,there is a ruthless killer out there somewhere! Would things have been handled differently if it had been an officers daughter or the investigaters sister.somene should be heald accountable.thanks to dateline maybe someone will! my heart is broken for all those that truly lovethat precious child.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Mike Nelson — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:37:53 GMT

Look at the Stepfather, he ignored the evidence and his shouting out after the verdict was read " Look's like you got away with it Kevin " just doesn't fit the behavior of a normal person, it's more the behavior of a guilty person wanting to throw the blame back on an innocent young man. I would not be suprised to find out that the stepfather was the guilty one.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Michael, Florida — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:39:22 GMT

Cell phone of a dead young beautiful girl erased and handled by creepy step father = guilty creepy step father with lame excuse. THE END

Death and the Beauty Queen

Anne B. Omaha, Ne — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:39:23 GMT

The jury should be applauded for the job they did and for the decision they set forth. The evil step-father and the smiling emotion-less mother should be investigated to the end. The botched crime scene investigation (if you can call it that) is at best..shameful. We can all only hope and pray that this stellar defense team is on the road to finding Nona's killer. And they won't have to look very far either......

Death and the Beauty Queen

L'Tanya Quarles Virginia Beach,VA — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:45:52 GMT

Very strange. I am so sad for both Kevin and Nona. The mother and the stepfather look pretty suspicious. Mom's affect is so flat, as though she does not even acknowledge the very tragic death of her daughter. So sad that Nona may have been in a very dysfunctional place, and it seems like for the majority of her life. Cutting, or self injurious behavior is a real sign of deep suffering and pain. The mother and step dad seemed to have inappropriate body language or something. I agree with an earlier comment in that maybe a behavioralist needs to look closer at the dynamics of the mom and stepdad and the relationship they may have had with Nona. It was obvious that Nona had a sad and short life with probably more dysfunction than we may ever know. So glad Kevin was found innocent, and I hope he can move on with his life.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Mike Nelson — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:50:27 GMT

Death and the Beauty Queen

PJ Nashville TN — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:57:37 GMT

You can find more information on the Nona Dirksmeyer Murder at helpfindthemissing.org
http://helpfindthemissing.org/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=55

Death and the Beauty Queen

Maren Iversen, Chicago IL — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:59:59 GMT

I am so glad that the verdict for Kevin was not guilty. In regards to Nona's mother and step-father, they are very weird. No emotion. No sense of loss was expressed at all. Certainly the family has had issues from day one. The mother "not knowing" her daughter was being molested by her father. This is hard to believe. The mother is in DENIAL. Then, how convenient that Kevin be pulled in and interrogated for three hours, not anyone else. The step father and mother need to be polygraphed, cross-examined AND finger printed. I would not put it past either of them. How come Nona moved out when the stepfather moved in? There was some conflict of interest there. And then the erased cell phone. You take your stepdaughter's cell phone that had her blood on it and decide to use it because you're "frugal". Furthermore, how come the only ones who did speak of Nona fondly were NOT her parents but her boyfriend, her boyfriend's parents and her friend's mother. This is a very sad case. This poor girl was brutally murdered and she doesn't even have decent enough parents who can show emotion over it. Something was very wrong here from day one.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Sharon, Mesa, AZ — Sat, 03 May 2008 05:06:23 GMT

Ya, I really thought it was weird that the mother didn't seem to be upset at all....she grinned!?!? MY mother would be histerical. It seems like the new homicide investigation guy just wanted to prove he could convict someone so he picked Kevin. I think he is innocent and the jury made the right decision. Maybe Russellville should think about investing in some training for their investigation crews.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Leslie Duncan — Sat, 03 May 2008 05:25:54 GMT

I saw this when it aired a few months ago, and I immediately thought it was the creepy stepfather. Nona's mother didn't protect her from her first abuser, her first husband, and didn't protect her from her current husband. How convenient for this guy that the police blamed poor Kevin. He must think he's the luckiest guy on earth huh?

Death and the Beauty Queen

Jorge Alvarez, Laredo TX — Sat, 03 May 2008 05:38:35 GMT

I too agree that the mother & stepfather are the ones that should be investigated.

Also, It is rather odd that her Stepfather wanted the cell phone. Thats a little selfish if you ask me, considering the fact that hmm...I dont know...YOUR STEPDAUGHTER JUST DIED!!! I know that if I passed away...my parents would be mourning my loss,concerned about funeral arrangements..etc.. and not thinking of getting things for themselves for their own personal convenience, much less use.

Also, I dont know why Police didnt try contacting the cell phone service provider to get the phone numbers of all the incoming and outgoing calls. Same goes for the text messages. I know you cant read whats on the actual message, and with the cell phone you cant listen in on the calls, but they CAN provide you with a list of incoming and outgoing phone numbers from your inbox. I KNOW THIS FOR A FACT.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Ed Perez, Gilbert, AZ — Sat, 03 May 2008 05:44:40 GMT

I am convinced that Kevin did not kill Nona. Do I think that Nona's stepfather killed her? I don't know. Is there any more information about the man that was seen around Nona's apartment the day of the murder? Was there a description? Did the police ever get a hit on the finger prints on the murder weapon? Did anyone say if it was a forced entry or not? Would a normal rapist use a condum? Was there any evidence that she might have known her attacker? Was Kevin's grandmother and Nona's stepfather given an opportunity to take a lie detector test? I wonder if they would willing to take one. There are more questions then answers.

Death and the Beauty Queen

K.R., Exeter, CA — Sat, 03 May 2008 05:50:25 GMT

I found it odd that the mother said the step dad had called her 8 or 9 times the day of the murder when he usually didn't call at all or maybe once! The step dad mentioned he had receipts from here or there during the time Nona was murdered. Hmmmm. You can pick up receipts off the ground in parking lots at any store! Kevin seemed like a sweet boyfriend. The night they videotaped him hitting the chair and crying "what am I going to do"(?) was the night he found his true love murdered! I think most people would be distraught! Shame on the police and prosecutors! Some day, the mother will be surprised when she finds out who really did it; or will she?

Death and the Beauty Queen

Jonathan Howell, Major Gen.Retired, Ocean Springs, Mississippi — Sat, 03 May 2008 05:54:28 GMT

Please, someone from the local Arkansas area tell us what they know about the other guy. Was it the Mayor's son. If she was having some type of affair with the Mayor's son it would definitly help explain the cover up investigation and the bias, unsensitive and raunchy newspaper articles. However, I still lean toward the step-father. Would he be willing to take a "legit" polygraph test? Cheap men don't spend all day shopping...by themselves..enough said. If he was such a cheap man- what else of the deceased did he keep. Furniture, T.V, stereo, computer, jewerly..etc. Probably just the damn cell phone. Now ask yourselves why? The mother will go to her grave in denial. I have learned the hard way about not judging a book by its cover. However, the mother knows something that we, the audience, do not. Her fake smiles are a conscience effort to hide her pain, guilt, denial and shame.

This act of murder happened about two and a half years ago. If it had happened just two and a half days or even months ago and the audience knew the facts as they do now..... not only would the entire state of Arkansas demand justice... but this would be national and daily news until solved. With that being said, I personally would ask Dateline to do whatever possible to get more facts. In addition, I believe small town people know everything about everyone. Please, if you know something have the strength to come forward. Call the FBI, leave your information of evidence on the doorstep of the state prosecutors home, send a letter to the defense team, I don't mind your decision- but do something. Speak up...tell the truth.

Death and the Beauty Queen

john doe, langley bc. — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:07:01 GMT

stepdad deleted the cell phone from the murder scene because hes frugal? very unusual. I really hope he is investigated rigorously.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Jamie L., JD, Florida — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:10:00 GMT

From watching the segment, it seems like the Stepfather did it. No normal person would ever use her cell phone after the murder. Only a guilty person would have erased all of the evidence from the phone. He also came across as strangely distant about the murder and about Nona. For that matter, the Mother seemed to be oddly emotionless as well. I think that they are the ones who should have been investigated or should be questioned further now. Shame on the police for not taking more evidence and fingerprints. Shame on the town for having such tunnel vision on one suspect. I hope that justice is served for the innocent murder victim.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Elizabeth, Antioch, CA — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:10:24 GMT

The mom and step dad both creeps. Mom was smiling, step dad eerily erased phone memory. I think step father is the one who should "man up" and admit what HE had done.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Evan Kascak, Kelowna, BC — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:11:41 GMT

This disturbed me to no end.. How in that families right mind could they blame Kevin when it was proven he hasn't done a thing.. THERE IS NO EVIDENCE!!! I know they want to blame someone, but how can you so easily turn on someone you came to love??

Death and the Beauty Queen

Andrea L Huntington Beach Ca — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:12:51 GMT

There is something not right with the step father. I strongly feel he is the one involved with her death. Her mother knows it but she is in denial. She already lost one husband and is terrified of loosing another even though it cost her her daughter. Some women will do anything to keep a man. I wish I could face him. He is the one that needs to man up. If justice is not served on earth it will be served when he meets his maker.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Carol Leach — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:18:24 GMT

As soon as you reported that the stepfather just happened to be Christmas shopping and had receipts to prove it the first red flag went up. And he kept calling his wife at work to make sure she was there and not going to show up unexpectedly at her daughter's home. I think he should be a prime suspect.

Death and the Beauty Queen

AC, LA, CA — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:21:07 GMT

hey "K, from Russellville", i'm dying to know what you meant in an earlier comment about the mayor's son and nona's finances. oof... it's all so shady, so tragic, and so sadly unjust.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Krister johannsen — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:22:22 GMT

There is definitely more to this case than meets the eye. Its scary how so many presumably inteligent people start pronouncing "I know he did it." Based on what evidence?
And Nona's stepfather, creepy or what. Definitely should get his collar felt by the powlice.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Chelsea, Seattle, Wash. — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:25:08 GMT

Something struck me as very strange in this case. In almost every clip of Nona's mother she seems almost happy not at all like a grieving mother. I also saw a brief clip where she was talking about how strange it was that her husband called her more than 8 times during the time of the murder, maybe I heard that part wrong but it sounded like she was suspicious of him. With the history of Nona's mother overlooking her sexual abuse is it possible that she overlooked her new husbands dark side. I don' want to jump to conclusions but the entire time I watched this investigation unfold something didn't sit right when ever Nona's mother and step father were interviewed. Even though you are struck with grief how can you possibly say that Kevin was guilty after every piece of evidence played clearly says, he was not guilty. Kevin's emotion was as real and vivid as emotion can be. I cried for him because you could feel the pain he was feeling. He was the only person in the whole show besides his mother that showed emotion. I hope that an update show will follow and I hope that justice will be served for whom ever committed this horrendous crime. P.s. if kevin would have picked up the light bulb portion of the lamp which is the only portion that has his print (and would imply that he would have had to pick the lamp up from there to use as a weapon) and slammed it into her don't you agree the bulb would have shattered with the force that they say hit Nona, it was in one piece! A light bulb is not strong enough to withstand that kind of force.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Patricia Pogue White Rock BC Canada — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:31:51 GMT

After reading the comments, no one mentioned the fact that she had moved out from the family home right after her step father came on the scene. He stated that perhaps she didn't like the cerfew and would lock the door.
My gut is telling me that there is someting more going on with her side of the family that needs to be looked into more closely. I thought that Keith Morrison did a great job of presenting this story totally unbiased!
I will be watching for further developments regarding this case.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Lisa Thompson, Spokane, WA — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:34:48 GMT

Mr. Morrison--will you please keep all of your loyal viewers updated on this case? I share the sentiments of just about everyone before me--this is a chilling murder, complete with botched investigation, and yes the mom and stepdad are, well, creepy. I think we all agree that we are staying tuned for more. Hopefully young Kevin can move on.

Death and the Beauty Queen

R Stone, Temecula, Ca — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:37:38 GMT

Thank You for showing the "unjustice" system in this country. Thankfully the boyfriend received a fair "juror" trial. The stepfather looks so guilty. He called the wife 6 times that day and she said in all years married he never called her at work before.I believe one text msg to Nona was, "Why do you lead me on"-flashed quickly on the screen-Step Father gets phone and erases everything although he wants to have the boy friend found guilty? Any parent would demand the phone be checked for evidence. Probably took the battery when he had no time or could not figure out how to erase the messages.He conveinently had xmas receipts ready to prove aliby-yet he's a frugal cheapskate?.Based on the text msg,maybe his curfew rules were not why she moved out, and she did not want to tell her mom.Step dad looks pretty Guilty with more evidence then they had on the boyfriend!What happened to no newspaper rule for Jurors-they let the newstand be outside the court house doors the whole time during the trial? Reeks of corruption- check the step dads finger prints and lock him in a room for over 3hrs with fake poly test.
Kudos to the stellar defense team for not just moving on and wanting to bring closure for the boyfriend and justice for Nona.Please update us on outcome of this case.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Diana, Canada — Sat, 03 May 2008 07:09:21 GMT

Who is this half-brother anyway? Is he the son of her deceased father from an earlier relationship?
Maybe he became incensed that Nona had accused his (their) father of molesting her. Maybe the family suspects him but is afraid of him. Nona's Mother and Stepfather definately behaved in a strange fashion given the situation. Maybe they have to keep up a front because of their fear of the half brother.

Death and the Beauty Queen

anonymous — Sat, 03 May 2008 07:20:18 GMT

I grew up around Kevin and his family. I grew up with the Jones' in church and his mother was my Sunday school teacher. They are truly good people and I think that small town politics are involved but in the fact that this small town wanted a conviction and they didn't care who it had to be and in this case I think that Kevin's family's strong faith in God helped the jury see through all the garbage brought against him. God sees all and knows all and it is He who is the final Judge. My heart goes out to the family and friends of Nona but I am glad to see Kevin found Not Guilty.He is a good person from a good and solid background, Kevin grew up in the same church as I did and we were both taught the same morals and I believe he is incapable of such a horrible crime.

Death and the Beauty Queen

A. Nonymous, Russellville, AK — Sat, 03 May 2008 08:05:10 GMT

Most of us in Russellville know who murdered Nona. It was a very prominant local officials son who had been seeing Nona behind Kevins back. It has been a huge cover up. Justice will be done but it may take a while.

Death and the Beauty Queen

James Hale — Sat, 03 May 2008 08:11:31 GMT

That song Nona sang in the beginning was from Sarh Brightman's album, Time to Say Goodbye.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Diana DeGuzman Carmel, CA — Sat, 03 May 2008 09:49:14 GMT

Thank you - it's not just me that is suspect of the mother and step-father. Something in my gut rolled ovre when watching the mother being interviewed. There are too many clues adding up:
There was no forced entry, Nona had to be familiar enough with this person to let them into her house. Something about the stick that secures the sliding glass door to be removed seems to convenient. The fact that she was found naked, yet not sexually asaulted - yet the big deal about the comdom - which speaking of who in a fit of rage takes time to place the condom rapper on a counter so nicely - wouldn't it have been thrown somewhere like her clothing and the rest of the crime scene? I couldn't sleep this evening thinking about Nona and her mother's relationship. I have a sinking feeling her mother did not appreciate Nona speaking out so openly of her sexual abuse.
In a quote taken from the show
[As a beauty pageant contestant, Nona Dirksmeyer's platform the social issue of most concern to her was child abuse. Nona did not choose this issue lightly. Reporting in the Arkansas Democrat Gazette on January 29, 2006, journalist Debra Hale-Shelton explained why Nona had even entered the world of pageants as a contestant in the first place:

"Nona hoped that 'if she won Miss Arkansas, she'd be able to go around to the schools and educate people about child abuse,' [Carol, Nona's mother] Dipert said.

"Initially, Dipert said, Nona picked sexual abuse of children as her platform but scaled it back.

'She said people didn't want to hear' about sex crimes, Dipert said.

"Dipert believes the competitions helped her daughter, who was the reigning Miss Petit Jean Valley when she died"]
Were those REALLY Nona's words - or her mother's?

Death and the Beauty Queen

Denise Arnold Blairsville, Ga. — Sat, 03 May 2008 10:20:09 GMT

Please 'do' let me know if there is an update to this story .. I felt left hanging as to who actually murdered this lovely girl so violently . . I wonder why on earth the stepfather would've deleted evidence, was he merely frugal or guilty of the crime .. who did the prints on lamp base belong too? What new evidence has now been submitted .. please email me if there is an update on this story .. thank you kindly

Death and the Beauty Queen

Mary H., North Augusta, SC — Sat, 03 May 2008 11:34:03 GMT

First off, I think K. Morrison did an excellent job on this piece. Now I have two daughters and if one of them had been so brutally murdered/abused, I would not be able to talk, years later, not smile as that "parent" did. It is shocking to me that Kevin was even arrested on these charges. The detective and his "first murder case", well he needs to be mentored or removed from the force, what a farce, he did not do his job, perhaps he needs to watch a CSI! or perhaps the entire dept needs to. Look at that stepfather and the mother said her husband called her many times during his so called shopping trip, which was the day of the murder, something he usually never did when he went shopping, that right there should raise a red flag, something had to be not right for Nona to not want to live with her mother and the new "stepdaddy". This case was blundered, I hope Kevin's legal team can find the real killer and release Kevin's soul so that he can grieve for his Nona. This is so sad, what a beauty she was.

Death and the Beauty Queen

pam moon, boulder creek, CA — Sat, 03 May 2008 11:46:11 GMT

This was a classic case of a coerced confession/interrogation, where people too young & trusting fall prey to police tricks just so they can close their case.

Death and the Beauty Queen

joe Palermo — Sat, 03 May 2008 12:38:02 GMT

The investigation by the Russelville police was an absolute travesty. They wanted a suspect immediately and totally disregarded the evdience at hand. Her boyfriend did not do it and more than likely the stepfather did it. Hopefully, the local Mayberry Police department will re-look the evidence they have, if avaialble and charge the real killer, the father in law.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Connie Schulz Milford, MI — Sat, 03 May 2008 12:38:14 GMT

The boyfriend's behavior was that of a person that lost his love of his life. If he was a violent kid, it would have shown up PRIOR to killing someone. Why did the mother NOT KNOW that her husband was sexually abusing her child? I think its the Mother and the Step Father. The MOther had NO EMOTION. The step father pretended he was such a good guy. The boyfriend seemed normal and I know he didn't kill him.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Elaine, PA — Sat, 03 May 2008 12:39:06 GMT

I could not fall asleep last night thinking they could
not find Nonas killer,and only focused on the boyfriend who was clearly innocent, are they still
looking? The mother and the stepfather not only showed
No emotion but had smiles on their faces,and hes using
her cell phone!(thats sick)
God bless Nona and Kevin and hopefully one day they
will find the real killer.
Such a sad story, please keep as posted.

Death and the Beauty Queen

JWilson — Sat, 03 May 2008 12:40:57 GMT

I agree that there is something 'eerie' about the step-father,both the mother and step-fathers remorse seemed fake and the mother seemed to have a smirk on her face..the part about the erasing the cell phone because he always wanted one..seemed odd....The right verdict was reached...the police messed up..expcially 'Barny Fith'

Death and the Beauty Queen

Flora D., Chapel Hill, NC — Sat, 03 May 2008 13:11:31 GMT

I agree with all the people who said there was something weird about the mother and stepfather. Even if they had nothing to do with the murder, I can't imagine a mother who would be smiling while talking about her only child's violent death, or who would allow her husband to lock her daughter out of the house at 9:00 PM. He came across as a horrible human being--one who would be capable of anything, including murder and sexual molestation. Maybe he killed her when she rejected his advances. That theory is a lot more credible than the one advanced by the prosecution.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Steven , Austin, IN — Sat, 03 May 2008 13:14:16 GMT

As I watched the show last night, a few questions came to me, was there any sign of forced entery into her apartment, was she or wasn't she raped, and did no one check the serial number or lot number on the condom rapper, that could at least tell from were it was purchased. And was the rest of the apartment checked for any kind of evidence?

Death and the Beauty Queen

Mike Boise, Idaho — Sat, 03 May 2008 13:30:20 GMT

No one has mentioned this yet. It has been bothering me all night long. Was there proof of a motive? I mean was the girl actually "intimate" with another man? The prosecutor said either Kevin found out by seeing the condom rapper or saw some recent texts that set him off. If the text messages were explicit then you could show motive. The fact that the cell phone was erased is baffling.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Michael Gunderson Tucson, Arizona — Sat, 03 May 2008 14:29:09 GMT

Your comments (Mr. Morrison) about Nona's mother serve you to get reactions about her and the stepfathers guilt. Its pretty funny that you are obviously trying not to get sued by those two when you do have the power to make people look closer. But in a way I think you accomplished that. You showed us their supposed aliby of getting 8-10 calls from his work that day (Nona's mother and stepfather) {who calls their significant other 8-10 times in one day?} their coldheartedness, Nona's mom using three words with no emotion whatsoever describing when she found out her daughter was dead. And last but not least--motive. Oh yea you didn't go over that, I don't know I may have missed it. Insurance policy? Jealousy? Find out will ya Mr. Morrison?

Death and the Beauty Queen

Mike Meines, Lakewood, Washington — Sat, 03 May 2008 14:55:54 GMT

I am so pleased to read that others share my feelings about the step-father...his erasure of the messages on the phone, the suspicious numerous calls plus his statement to Kevin after the verdict - "You got away with one, Kevin..." - probably sums up his involvement for me. Like so many comments before mine PLEASE reopen the investigation and focus on the step-father. Why was Nona not living at home? Because of the step-father's bizarre behavior of locking the doors at 10 p.m. 'cause "nothing good happens at that time".
Keith Morrison is the man!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Milton Fukuda — Sat, 03 May 2008 15:01:41 GMT

I'm glad to finally see a show where the concept of reasonable doubt prevails. There should be more highlighting of cases where the a zealous prosecutor does not convince a jury of a defendant's guilt simply by piecing together a series of "what ifs" or "this could have happened".

Death and the Beauty Queen

Isidra, Collinsville, IL — Sat, 03 May 2008 15:16:56 GMT

The only thing I agree with Nona's mother about is this crime was committed by someone Nona knew. Her step father definitely needs to be investigated more thoroughly. Why in your right mind would you use your dead step daughter's phone? Why as a mother would you allow your husband to erase some of the last parts of your daughter that you have left? Why did Nona's stepfather call her mother at work so much the morning of Nona's death when she herself said that was uncommon? Was he trying to make an alibi? I definitely think the Jury made the right decision. This horrific crime was committed by someone who had NO emotional attachment to Nona, and her stepfather clearly stated "it was not my job to raise Nona."

Death and the Beauty Queen

Jean Pullia Norwalk Ct — Sat, 03 May 2008 15:34:58 GMT

I also am happy that Kevin was found not guilty, and also believe that the step farther has something to do with it. If that was my daughter I don't think I would be able to even talk about it, let alone show no emotion like her mother did.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Linda, Reno, NV — Sat, 03 May 2008 16:29:37 GMT

I only got to watch part of the story and was wondering if there is some way to get the whole transcript?

Death and the Beauty Queen

J. Georgia — Sat, 03 May 2008 16:30:28 GMT

Thank God Kevin was proven not guilty. He clearly didn't kill her. Now her mother and step father, very creepy. I was relieved to see other people thought the same thing. What a shame for Nona and Kevin that the cops are so stupid. That poor girl never had a chance.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Leo — Sat, 03 May 2008 17:14:45 GMT

I feel the stepfather was strange and its seems very weird that he took her cellphone to use it for himself. Come on man I do not buy that. He should be investigated. The mother was too Hard. Mothers know more than they lead on. Their lovelife seems to come first before their daughter. Maybe this creep took over where her dead father left off. The killer needs to be found and I believe he is very close to the family!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Teresa, Albuquerque — Sat, 03 May 2008 17:17:37 GMT

I wonder what became of the guy Nona was seeing on the side. Who was he? Why wasn't his name brought up? Could he have had a part in all this? I agree with the comments regarding Nona's mother and stepfather showing no emotion. What's up with that?

Death and the Beauty Queen

VYoung, Spring TX — Sat, 03 May 2008 17:23:33 GMT

I would personally like to know more about the Mayor's son and the finances that someone blogged about from Russelville. Was this young lady involved with (someone of importance) son and that was all covered up. Did the mayor not want his son drawn into this for fear of loosing votes. Did he have someone's chain and was yanking it to get someone convicted as soon as possible so his son wasn't brought into this. I think maybe there might be more to this than we all know. Please blogger from Russellville tell more.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Rancho LaQuinta — Sat, 03 May 2008 17:36:50 GMT

First off... it's the stepdad. Mother married one loser already, he's loser #2.
Second... who's the dude who showed up part way through the show with the same last name as Nona? I thought her first dad died, but it sounded like they referred to him as Nona's dad. ???? (bigger dude from Missouri?)

Death and the Beauty Queen

Anne, Alton, IL — Sat, 03 May 2008 18:20:14 GMT

This is to K, from Russellville. Who is the mayor's son? What about Nona's finances??? What are you talking about?
I agree with all the above notes...that stepfather needs to be investigated. Nothing ever happens after 10p and the doors are locked? What is that about? But...to erase the memory on the phone is suspicious along with calling his wife 8 to 10 times while at work...what time were those calls made? Have they ever identified the dna that was found on the base of that lamp? This program aired a couple of months and I don't see anything new developing...what's happening down in Russellville Ark?

Death and the Beauty Queen

Michelle, Fort Worth, TX — Sat, 03 May 2008 18:24:38 GMT

How very sad the police immediately acted as judge and jury and convicted Kevin instead of doing the job they are paid to do which is investigate a homocide. Kevin's behavior was obviously that of a grief stricken young man NOT that of a guilty boyfriend. Besides, isn't a suspect innocent until proven guilty in this country? I think the mother and the step-father are highly suspect. Talk about weird unusual behavior...the mother was smiling or smirking almost jovial. She didn't appear to really care that her daughter was brutually murdered. And the step-father...how convenient for him to show up at the scene and be allowed to destroy evidence. It is repulsive that the bozo cops gave the step-father Nona's telephone. It is even more repulsive that the step-father began using the phone for his personal use. Don't serial killers usually keep a keepsake from their victims after they kill them. Maybe Nona's phone is Duane Dipert's keepsake. PLEASE investigate the mom and step-father. One or both just could be the real killers. This is very very scary!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Joe A., York, PA. — Sat, 03 May 2008 18:34:54 GMT

I am sure Kevin is innocent. I missed the broadcast but ran across the video clips presented on "msnbc.com video" and watched them all and agree with all the responses here under "comments",
especially Nona's mother, in every one of the clips she is smiling and showing no grief at all, also the stepfather and the cell phone, erasing valuable information that could have led to the killer. Why did the police give him the phone in the first place?
There is something about him that leaves me with a bad feeling and I hope the defense attorneys will stand by their promise to Kevin that they are going to go over all the evidence and do their best to find the real killer. I like to watch the TV show "48 hours" which is real as it happens and the CSI in that show compared with Kevin's lack of any CSI work is a crime that it happened the way it did the detective should be demoted to being anything but a detective so no one else will suffer because of him as Kevin did. I am so glad his father was able to hire the attorney's that he did or Kevin with everything stacked against him might have been found guilty. To copy what another person stated in "comments, When the murderer is found, will there be some way that the public is informed? I'm very interested in the outcome of this". I too am very interested in the outcome, is there any way of notification by email?
Thank you.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Rosebow, Whitestone, New York — Sat, 03 May 2008 18:37:00 GMT

I absolutely agree with the verdict, and I also agree with many posts sent in that this investigation was
one of the sloppiest ever concluded in a murder case. Why they grabbed her boyfriend was to 'end' the investigation which in itself is mindboggling and very suspicious. (protecting someone else?)
I also believe that Nora's mother had her head in the sand as to her first husband's abuse to her child. Her second husband's character seems to be 'overly inflexible' and 'extremely scary'... I wouldn't want him to be a stepfather to my kids....To suspect him is easy...but without evidence, how can anyone be accusedd? At the end of this program it was said that new evidence has been gathered and viewers were invited to read 'more' on your website...Well, here we are and 'Where is new evidence?'

Death and the Beauty Queen

Debbie, Phoenix, AZ. — Sat, 03 May 2008 18:38:50 GMT

I also feel that the verdict was correct. There were too many pieces of evidence that did not point to Kevin but to someone else. They say the lamp was the murder weapon. Kevin's fingerprints were on the lightbulb- but someone else's palm print was on the base. Who picks up a lamp by the buld to hit someone with? At this point, the step-father would be my #1 suspect to investigate. I am glad that Kevin's attorney's are carrying on the investigation- they will probably find the real killer- since the police can't seem to do it right. Now we have to pray that when Kevin's attorney's hand the Prosecuter's office the killer and all the evidence to prove it on a silver platter that they aren't too proud to do something with it and bring the real killer to justice. Please keep us posted on this case.

Death and the Beauty Queen

mountains,nocity,az — Sat, 03 May 2008 18:50:09 GMT

i am a survivor of physical and molestation by my father and physically abuse by my mother. i can tell you that although my mother would never admit to being aware of the molestation....i strongly felt that she was aware of it....even to the point that i believe that she was jealous of his attentions towards me that i became the black sheep of the family and became the target of her physical abuse. we were raise in a ghetto style life and all of the above help to make me more aware of my surrounding and better able to see things that others could not see...evil being one of them. so i consider myself a very good judge of character. so here's my thoughts.... although it doesn't take a rocket scientist to see it, just a willingness to be honest with what you see and hear. the mother may be harboring ill feeling towards her daughter because of the first husband and now this husband... why did nona feel compelled to move out of the house. there must have been a reason. did something happen that strained her relationship with her mother that involved her step-dad. yes i seen that smirk on the mom's face too (you have to be blind not to see it). she did not want to lose her second husband and felt threaten by her daughters beauty or by an action/gut instinct driving her. i agreed...why would a mother allow her daughter voice to be erased. she herself agrees the calls placed to her by nona's step-dad were out of character. this being said...she definately should be investigated as a second suspect. she showed no emotions and i believe she knows more than she's will to say..... now the step-dad...my gut instincts tell me without a doubt that this is the killer...i agreed with all that i have heard and he needs to be investigated. why did he erase her records...everything pertaining to nona's cell phone should be investigated to it's fullest. why was the battery removed and yes i agreed that it would have been easier to have gotten a free new phone with your phone subsription (you can get one free with a basic order, faster and easier than the headache of deleting everything...especially someone's only love one) if this doesn't scream foul? there was no mention of cross checking the step-dad's fingerprints with the murder weapon, her nails and everything else that they missed. unfortunetly, kevin was his perfect scapegoat. i believe he knew that kevin would be the first person looked at and he planted that condemn for that exact reason. was his prior record look at? was he ever married before and if so have they spoken with the ex's, his children, step-child? i can judge people very well and after viewing and seeing everything....he's your monster. thank-you to the attorneys for your persistence in your pursue to resolve this case and we would all like to be updated if you ever convict someone for her death.there are other reasons but these are the ones that stand out!!!! everything that i have been through tells me that the step-dad is the one!!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Bill Perry, Phoenix, AZ — Sat, 03 May 2008 18:59:24 GMT

I spent the better part of a decade of my life involved in law enforcement, security, corrections, I've seen both sides of the system. I've even been through horrific assault cases and murder investigations...I am absolutely appalled at the police officers and investigators in this case. I am absolutely ashamed to say that they should be wearing a badge. It was about the most pathetic display of police work I have seen in a long time.

You only gather the evidence that supports your side of the case and then allow the rest to be wiped away or discarded...way to make a name for yourself there Mr. Investigator. You were obviously high strung on solving your FIRST murder case that you didn't even allow the though to enter your mind that someone else could've done it. All you wanted was to convict someone so everyone thought you were a good investigator and a great guy...what a shame how poor a job you did. You did nothing to serve justice for Nona...If I were Kevin I would sue the police department for the actions of the officer and his supervision which was woefully inadequate.

I've seen a lot of stories like this, and dealt with a great many situations in life involving familes and friends...nothing is harder than to tell someone you don't know what happened. But telling the truth is more important...where are your ethics.

My question for the prosecutor and investigator is this:

If that were your son would you have wanted the same verdict or would you have convicted him?

Sad day for the image of law enforcement!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Michael — Sat, 03 May 2008 19:11:42 GMT

After seeing the program i would be checking into the stepfather a little more you can get x-mas recipts from anyone,Did he pay by cash,creadit card,then he ereased all the numbers in her cell,you would have thought he would have saved them to check out himself the numbers.when seeing him in tv interview how he spoke and his looks,so many things went wrong with this case on the Law inforcement involved,Seems like now days your guilty first,cuffs,court bam they got there man you loose attatude. Kevin just remember Jesus loves you,as we all keep praying that the real killer may be caught my prayers go up for all...

Death and the Beauty Queen

Linda Petersen — Sat, 03 May 2008 19:45:41 GMT

Investigate the step father. The boyfriend didn't do it. He appear to have the strength of a man able to do what was done to that girl. The step father in my opinion could have. He was domineering and after her, because she was beautiful. Her mother knows more than she lets on. The step father erased the phone memory, because he called her. She knew her killer and wasn't afraid of him. He was there to rape her or seduce her, but became angry when she refused his advances. Even though he had receipts from different stores (Christmas shopping) a receipt shows the time when you leave. He could have gone in and out and back to the store, thus having an alibi. I would check his dna.

Death and the Beauty Queen

anonymous — Sat, 03 May 2008 19:56:45 GMT

I agree with everyone else, the boyfriend was innocent and I found the step father very suspicious.

Death and the Beauty Queen

B, Flowery Branch, GA — Sat, 03 May 2008 19:59:58 GMT

I agree with everyone else that something funny is up with the mom and stepdad. Did anyone ever raise the question to the boyfriend about why Nona moved out? The stepdad mentioned it in the interview, but the whole curfew thing doesn't seem to jive. He and the mother just look way too smug to not know something. Maybe the stepdad did try to pick up where the real dad left off.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Katie Coogan, New York, New York — Sat, 03 May 2008 20:30:48 GMT

This is ridiculous. The stepfather's guilt is so obvious that a two year old could put it together. First, she leaves house when the guy moves in. Second, he calls his wife 8X at work the day of the girl's murder (despite never once calling before!) Third, he gets hold of her phone and delete's all its contents before then using it. Clearly, he knew everyone in the town and was able to divert any attention to himself by making the boyfriend the focus of everyone's rage. Let us hope this sick man is much more harshly examined.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Rose C., Oregon — Sat, 03 May 2008 21:28:59 GMT

I find it very sad that in this small town community, quilt was assessed so quickly. Both these young people lived and grew in this community, yet sides were taken so adamently that I feel justice for Nona took a backseat to justifying their own righteous opinions.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Beverly Tampa Florida — Sat, 03 May 2008 23:16:34 GMT

First of all, what happened to the 'other man' that Nona was allegely having an affair with? I think that was made up and is not true. The stepfather gives me the creeps. I think that they should check his fingerprings against the ones on the lamp. Mother was strange with her smiling at the courtroom. Odd behavior. Did they ever say how the intruder broke in? Would the parents have a key to Nona's apartment?
The police giving the cell phone to the step father is bizarre. Also, when the stepfather said, wouldn't it be funny if the boyfriend did it? What is funny about a murder? Another place he said something about the mother's grieving as if he is detached from it and not grieving himself. Also, how about the stepdad calling on the phone 7 to 8 times that day, when the mother said, he never calls me at work like that. Also, this frugal stepdad that was too cheap to buy a new cell phone, but was out shopping all day and had receipts to prove it. I got the chills when I read it.
I liked the aunt that was a teacher. Atleast Nona had one sane person in her family. Someone asked about the older chubby man in her family. I think I read that he was a stepbrother of someone in Nona's family. In my opinion, he wasn't a suspect, but kind of clueless. Was he related to Nona's late father?
I thought Kevin Jones and his entire family seemed so nice and credible. Also, I think they grieved more for Nona than most of her real family.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Marian Greenslade Quartzsite, Az — Sat, 03 May 2008 23:44:43 GMT

I have to agree with the opinions of the people that are saying the BF didn't so it. I also think the step-father should be investigated to the nth degree. What a kook. The mother must hve been desparate to marry him and put up with his crazy thinking.

Death and the Beauty Queen

shirley — Sun, 04 May 2008 00:28:45 GMT

did the stepfather mentioned that 10:00 p.m was the time the kids or Nona had to be in and that they should show up at 9:00 p.m. This seems early for an older person. Pardon me if I am in error. Has anyone close to Nona been given a polygraph test?

Death and the Beauty Queen

Charles Dobbs, Suisun City, CA — Sun, 04 May 2008 01:14:17 GMT

Way to often officials jump to conclusions and then try to make the evidence fit their conclusions. Once they have their pieces in place, no reason to looking any further. Our legal system has got to far out of hand. Reasonable doubt don't mean anything any more. Prosecutors are just hungry for convictions at any cost. And it kills me, how strong they will stay their ground even after the conviction is overturned.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Mary, Paterson, New York — Sun, 04 May 2008 01:19:13 GMT

It sickened me to see that poor kid put through what he went through when it was obvious from the beginning that he was innocent. There was no evidence that he had ever acted violently. There would be something in his past if he was so capable of committing such a heinous crime. The prosecutor brought forth no such evidence. And the evidence on the lightbulb of the lamp was ridiculous. I have to agree. That stepfather was creepy.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Connie Cain, Gilberts, Ill. — Sun, 04 May 2008 02:44:10 GMT

Prosecutors only had one shot at convicting Kevin Jones. There is no excuse for not having a well-prepared case regardless of who the defendant is. There is no statute of limitations on a murder case.

Death and the Beauty Queen

JB, Texas — Sun, 04 May 2008 03:33:47 GMT

I am really curious about who killed this poor girl. It was certainly a badly handled case and scary to think that law enforcement would leave so many stones unturned.

Death and the Beauty Queen

S.B., CA — Sun, 04 May 2008 03:40:06 GMT

The song is called Con Te Partio (Time to Say Goodbye)

Death and the Beauty Queen

Randall Myrick Dixon, KY — Sun, 04 May 2008 04:22:44 GMT

Missing cell phone battery is the key. Mobile cell company should be able to supply serial number of phone and battery issued Nona. Also, by what means did stepdad phone mother at work multiple times? This is out of character for him and raises a red flag. Suspect his personal cell and Nona's are same model and use same battery. Better check on this too....

Death and the Beauty Queen

C. Walker Cordova, Tn — Sun, 04 May 2008 04:28:02 GMT

Arkansas has a lot of counties with law offericers that are so corrupt. Most all county officers are not trained in criminal justice with a degree they come the street and can't hold a job else where and been fired over and over or are related to elected officials in some way to get the job they can exploit justice and use their authority to abuse power. The uniform and badge gives them the euphoria of authority here in this state. The police in Russelleville, Ar. ought to be fired who had any hand in this in justice. They are guilty of allowing Nona's murderer go free. IT is sickening yet it happens in this state on the least of things. This state makes Louisianna look sweet. I left Ar. for yrs and lived in Tn. and never witnessed such atrocities as in Tn.

Death and the Beauty Queen

anonymous — Sun, 04 May 2008 05:02:36 GMT

Since the police got everything so wrong what about the lights in the apt were on. The lamp light was on and the friend that went to check on her first and called Kevin told Kevin that the upstairs bedroom light was on. Maybe she was killed at a different time than a.m.

That stepfather sure seems suspicious! I have a stepf. and let me tell you they don't like daughters they didn't father and they get cruel and mean all the time.

Death and the Beauty Queen

anonymous, Ar — Sun, 04 May 2008 05:10:48 GMT

Poor Kevin is so naive and so innocent he will wait until it is too late to sue that police dept. Just like the "question" and lie detector test Kevin was so vulnerable and those cops saw that and pounced. If Kevins parents see this or Kevin please get you someone in L.R. good and sue so the next muder in Russellville,Ar will get much careful attention and an innocent person will not have to go thru what you went thru. That police dept. needs a reality check and Kevin they still convinced you did it so sic it to them please.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Justice demander, Junction, Arkansas — Sun, 04 May 2008 05:27:01 GMT

I feel sick because I just watched the special on Nona and looked into the face of her killer, her stepfather. His comment "wouldn't it be funny if the boyfriend did it" was absolutely chilling. Then towards the end of the interview he's blustering that Kevin definately did it. I think the cell phone is a key piece of evidence....if Kevin supposedly saw a damning text message wouldn't the stepfather want the police to have the phone a key piece of evidence. There couldn't have been anything damning of Kevin on the phone or he wouldn't have erased it!

I too am glad that Kevin was found not guilty. It was the only appropriate verdict. This is going to haunt me because I truly believe that beautiful girl died at the hands of her stepfather. The fear she must have felt and the torture he put her through makes me want to weep. He'll slip up and be caught. I just hope and pray that he hasn't developed a taste for what he did to Nona.

Death and the Beauty Queen

anonymous, Ar — Sun, 04 May 2008 05:28:11 GMT

What a sorry excuse that the stepfather needed a cell phone and how could that mother allow him to keep that cell phone unless the mother didn't know he had it until way late. Another thing did anyone catch the mother say her husband who was Christmas shopping called at work at least 8 times that day and he never calls her at work. HELLO! He sure has seems to be someone of interest. Also I believe Nona knew who ever did this because she let them into the apt. She knew him. He had every excuse for Kevin to be Guilty. All of the lights in her apt are on so what time did she really die or was attacked. I am a trauma nurse and I have never been shocked in my 30yrs at this to find how long a person can live with trauma so so bad. Since the officials got so much wrong I just believe they may have got the time of the incident wrong. She could have laid unconcious for hours. The stepfather said he had a reciept with a time of check out on it well if the police got the time to incident wrong he could be good propect to look at.
I wonder if the stepfather is feeling the heat after reading this. After all they had Kevin judged without real justice.

Death and the Beauty Queen

mdondi milwaukee wi. — Sun, 04 May 2008 06:19:31 GMT

police??? They couldn't track an elephant in 3 feet of snow. They would get lost in a phone booth.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Very incompetant.

Death and the Beauty Queen

pam marietta ohio — Sun, 04 May 2008 12:47:22 GMT

Well, the bible says when one is murdered that their blood speaks from the ground. I hope that whoever the killer is (which is not kevin by the way) reads this and understand that the God sees and know all and he knows who the killer is. Nonas blood will cry out! Yes i do agree the stepfather is the most creepest man i have ever seen and the stepmother is just a creepy.I agree, they should bring in the some outside agency to investigate this. That cell phone episode is unreal. I was thinking all these same thoughts long before i read these blogs. I am praying to God for nona's killer to be caught.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Barbara — Sun, 04 May 2008 13:35:25 GMT

The pain of losing a child is unimaginable and it never goes away - ever. Nona's mother's cold, detached demeanor was utterly shocking. And the step-father using his dead step-daughter's telephone (with the mother's permission yet) and then destroying evidence on it is truly unbelievable. By the way, I believe the interfering uncle who showed up must have been the brother of Nona's sexually abusive biological father because he and Nona have the same last name. Have the police investigated the mother and her husband? The boyfriend and his family seemed to be loving and normal and I am glad that justice was served in this case.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Lonnie, Lafayette Louisiana — Sun, 04 May 2008 16:21:14 GMT

Was the stepfather one of the suspects that was cleared and if so how. If he was not part of the suspect list before the dateline interview he certainly should be now. The remark about it being funny if it turned out to be the boyfriend made my skin crawl.
I too would like to hear more from the Russellville blogger

Death and the Beauty Queen

Kami Hurst, TX — Sun, 04 May 2008 16:41:31 GMT

I am in such shock of the all the people saying that Nona's mother had something to do with the murder of her own child. I am seeing a lot of "If my child died I wouldn't be smiling." She was in an interview, she appeared to have a nervous smile not a happy to be here smile. So my questions are: have YOU lost a child, have you ever had EVERYONE asking you questions about every detail of your life and your child's. I bet most of you will answer NO. Why is it that in today's society people feel so eager to pass judgment on others? We saw one hour of this case, one hour is not long enough for anyone to know the entire story. I'm not saying that I think the step-father is innocent. I think that both Kevin and the step-father are possibilities. Just because the jury didn't find Kevin guilty, because there was so many cracks in the investigation doesn't mean he is. the step-father had some weird ways, and I agree that he should be investigated. All the comments I am reading is talking about tunnel vision and I think that each one of the comments seem to be bias and not looking at the big picture. It is not about sides here, it is about a young girl that got her life taken away, and obviously by someone who was angry with her. It seems that people feel that Kevin and/or Nona's mom are the victims, no there not. They were not beat and then killed.
I don't know any of the parties involved in this case, nor do I want to, but I feel that all these comments being made about the mother is mean. We didn't see enough to make a judgment call on whether she was a part of her daughter's death. She lost her husband, she was told that her daughter was sexually abused by her husband, and then she had to bury her child. I don't have to walk in her shoes to know that I wouldn't be the same, I don't know that I would have any emotions left in me. I hope to all of you saying these harsh words don't have to live through the things this mother is, I can tell you right now if you do that you will be judged by others as she is.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Christie Sanders — Sun, 04 May 2008 18:19:52 GMT

Mother very strange. Stepfather a creep. I too think it is the stepfather, or the other person with whom Nona was intimate with. With the the prosecutation botched the investigation, maybe Nona really was raped and the "medical examiner" just "decided" there was no evidence of rape because the police had already made up their mind by the time of the autopsy. If Nona was already dead - there would have been no struggle - the killer made sure of that. Does anyone know how Nona felt about the creepy stepfather or their relationship? Please God let them find Nona's killer.

Death and the Beauty Queen

anonymous, Nevada — Sun, 04 May 2008 18:49:15 GMT

I just watched the show and as a native of Dover,Arkansas. I have grown up with The Jones' Family and they are very much honest and all around good people. My family was very close with them and I know that if they had thought their son had done such a horrible thing they would have made the right decision and they would not have put their family farm on the line for this case. For the record, Kevin's grandmother, Ms.Norma, is not a liar, I have grown up knowing her my whole life through church and through my grandparents and if she said he was at her station then he was there!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Lily Albertson, Broken Arrow OK — Sun, 04 May 2008 21:01:31 GMT

How exactly did Nona's dad die? Was there life insurance on him? I pray that the defense attorneys do as they say they will and not let this go until they find the answers. Maybe the reason Nona's mom is so unaffected after losing her husband and only daughter because she was the beneficiary in both cases? Did she and her husband profit from the losses?

Death and the Beauty Queen

marcia , canton, mich. — Sun, 04 May 2008 21:54:05 GMT

After looking at the show I too beyond a reasonable doubt know it was the stepfather who did it. The mother is insane because she shows absolutely NO remorse for her daughter at all! Please believe that what's done in the dark will come to light. This is not the last we will hear of this case. It's going to make headlines big time - 'THE FATHER DID IT!'

Death and the Beauty Queen

Kyle Kirchhevel — Sun, 04 May 2008 21:55:36 GMT

I was glad that the Ozark jury came back with a not guilty verdict. This case is a textbook example of why sometimes trials need to be moved. If this case had been tried in Russelville, Kevin was a dead man.

The Russelville police and the prosecutors should be ashamed of themselves... the police for deliberately skipping possible DNA evidence all over the house, and the DA for never asking the police to go back and do their job right. Neither cared if the right person was convicted, as long as somebody was.

That interrogation room tape of Kevin was painful... I'll be hearing him say "She didn't deserve this. She deserved a life." for a long time.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Susan Perkins, FL — Mon, 05 May 2008 02:51:07 GMT

I hope that Dateline keeps the public updated on this horribly botched murder investigation. I believe eveyone on tis site feels that her parent's demeanor, actions,and speech, were weird. I do not believe that Nona had someone "on the side". This show unraveled me like no other. Please keep us updated as this unfolds!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Brenda Broome — Mon, 05 May 2008 03:40:20 GMT

The stepfather was not only "frugal" but very strict! This was not "his" daughter, but he was enforcing the the no later that the 10:00 rule in getting home. Nona was no baby! Maybe he was jealous? He gave me the creeps along with her mother.

Death and the Beauty Queen

S.A, Evansville, IN — Mon, 05 May 2008 04:26:00 GMT

I could hardly contain myself. To see this child,to hear of her person; Nona's beauty was a small thing compared to her sad and tragic, yet beautiful unfulfilled life. Nona's dreams to dry away some child's tears, to ease some child's pain, to pass on a little strength, to share her growing hope; there is no beauty greater than that coming from the inside out. Nona had it all. I am black and I never new Nona personally. I live in Indiana but the pain I felt was so great. I looked at Nona's mother and stepdad and I could not see in either of them anything near the sorrow I felt. I felt that the stepdad had something to do with it. Their actions were just not right.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Tami — Mon, 05 May 2008 04:28:06 GMT

i truly agree the step father , and yes cell phones are free now days, and some dont work on other peoples plans , and if your looking for your daughters killer , why erase evidence , dumb cops , watch him get away with murder ,

Death and the Beauty Queen

S.Slife,Celina,Ohio — Mon, 05 May 2008 04:45:46 GMT

I Have all ready posted a comment but would like to get in contact with Kevin's legal team.Is there anyway to at least get there names.I'm having a hard time with this story.
REST IN PEACE SWEET ANGEL
Nona Dirksmeyer

Death and the Beauty Queen

Tony Gamarra — Mon, 05 May 2008 06:43:19 GMT

Please, please, please, investigate the stepfather Dwayne Diper. I know in my heart that he did it. I suspect that he tried to seduce her and that is why she moved out of the house. He strongly impresses me as a tyrant and a control freak that couldn't deal with her rejection. There are so many indicators that would indict him. There are many, many signs, but the empty condom wrapper.... it fits him to a "T". That is the type of thing an "1890's type of old school wierdo mentality would do. This man is a psychopath and he has connections to the poice department or they wouldn't have given the cell phone to him or else the police were so stupid, that when HE (Diper) ASKED THEM to give him the phone, they didn't have the sense to say no, because they were so keyed in on Kevin they didn't use any common sense....no surprise there.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Andrea Risenhoover — Mon, 05 May 2008 17:06:16 GMT

My comments will be short and succinct. When I first saw and heard Nona's stepfather, the short hairs on the back of my neck trembled. I didn't know why. As the story moved on, his demeanor, the excessive calls on the day of the murder, and the cell phone incident made me more suspicious of him.

I will be following up on this case if and when there are developments. Growing up in Northeast Arkansas
gives me a perspective of families and alliances in small-town Arkansas.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Dan, Eveleth, Minnesota — Mon, 05 May 2008 17:32:45 GMT

Her Family has something to do with this...its all in the eyes. Watch the interview carfully...the Mom has NO emotion and the Step-Dad twitches and fidgets through the whole interview like he has something to hide. Since the police in that town have to live with them, they decided to go after the easy suspect, not the right one. No doubt in my mind Kevin is innocent.

Death and the Beauty Queen

maria tullahoma,tn — Mon, 05 May 2008 18:28:51 GMT

The step father is very creepy and cold. Have they checked his dna and fingerprints on the lamp. He comes out at the sociopath. Very narcistic type.
The phone thing blows my mind. If he wanted justice, as anyone would do, you leave the evidence untouched hoping it may have a use at some time. Frugal. I don't think so, I think he is hiding something.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Dale , Bethlehem CT — Mon, 05 May 2008 19:30:41 GMT

Everyone makes a big deal over Nona's parents apparent lack of grief. However this was taped long after the murder, and much of the time they are recalling fond memories. Stepdad, he's just a jerk,which doesn't make him criminal. Think about this, Nona was mentoring young abused girls in the Big Sister's Program. Could a possible sexual abuser of this young girl she mentored feel he had cause for worry about what influence Nona may have had on his victim? Maybe he may have wanted to cancel this possible threat.

Death and the Beauty Queen

anonymous — Mon, 05 May 2008 20:59:01 GMT

First, the step-father said he was very strict in that curfew was at 10 and you had to be in the house by 9. Okay but in the beginning of the article didn't the step dad say something like he didn't feel it was his place to raise a child that was not his? Well if it wasn't his place because she wasn't his child, why was he so strict? I haven't even seen the TV report of this, I just read it on the web. Just reading it made me think something was terribly wrong. There is something wrong with the mom, something definitely wrong with the step-dad and the cop that was assigned to the case is wrong on so many levels I don't have enough room to list them all. I think this case definitely needs to be tried again and ALL SUSPECTS INCLUDING THE PARENTS/STEP-PARENTS need to be investigated. That cell phone excuse thing is so backwards it is ridiculous. You are so cheap that you would rather erase your dead step-child's numbers and information and use it for yourself rather than just get a new phone? He can't use the argument that he is frugal because he spent the whole day she was murdered shopping. IF that is what he was doing...

I don't know if the mother is willing to but someone in defense of that poor child needs to keep taking this case higher and higher until someone with some common sense looks at what has happened so far and realizes how incorrect it is. Even if it does take a while, I hope and pray that this case is solved ACCURATELY and the true killer be brought to justice. It is so obvious that Kevin was framed. Good police officers are so far and few between, you can't tell who to trust nowadays. If they start at the fact that the officer didn't do his job by collecting all evidence and go from there - doing it the way it is supposed to be done (EFFICIENTLY), then I am sure that they will find a lot more incriminating evidence that points to someone other than Kevin.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Jeremy Bryant, Nashville, TN — Mon, 05 May 2008 22:43:19 GMT

Look, it's very simple. The stepfather had a phone that could of been used to help find the killer, and yet he erases the memory. Reason: "I'm a thrifty guy. I needed a phone." Bull. If he didn't kill her, which I believe he did, he knows who did and is protecting her. He looks likes a pervert anyway.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Bob Carson, Salem, Oregon — Tue, 06 May 2008 01:59:15 GMT

When I saw the stepdad in the closing scene of the court acquittal sipping on a soft drink at what should have been the second most emotionally wrenching moment of his beloved wife's life, my suspicions were sealed. Dateline did a great job of illustrating his participation in this tragedy and I cannot help but wonder how the grieving mother can be so smug, actually smiling. Comparing Natalie Holloway's mother to Nona's is like night to day. From a father who lost his son 3 years ago, I have yet to erase his name from my cell phone, I still fight tears when I mention his name, and have no identity at all to the countenance and emotional display of Nona's mother and stepdad

Death and the Beauty Queen

Susan, Akron, Oh — Tue, 06 May 2008 02:52:33 GMT

I dan't imagine someone wanting to use the cell phone of a murdered victim. More importantly, I can't imagine allowing someone to use my love one'e phone after he or she was murdered. That's not fugile, it's disturbing. I find it extremely hard to believe that Nona's mother wasn't interested in those last calls before her husband erased them. That's just bizarr.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Ed, Rock Hill, SC — Tue, 06 May 2008 03:50:17 GMT

Excellent investigative documentary. Based on the appearances of Nona' mother and step-father, it appears that it was them, and not Kevin.

Nona's mother's eyes sparkle, she smiles, seems gleeful. The step-father is tight and controlled. After only two years there should still be plenty of sorrow and anger. None showed at all. They killed her.

The cops were crooked and/or incompetent. Thank God the jurors had intelligence, common sense, and a sense of duty.

Death and the Beauty Queen

bm, providence ri — Tue, 06 May 2008 12:16:27 GMT

being in law enforcement, i would look at the mother. she never seemed to care that her daughter was killed( always smirking). i think the step father does have something to hide ( like an affair with nona). i believe that the mother found out about the affair and that with the abuse by the first husband sent her off in a rage. she planted the condom wrapper to throw police to believing it was a male.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Patricia Gragg, Mannford, OK — Tue, 06 May 2008 15:28:48 GMT

I am very interested to know more about the step-father. The interesting thing was that he took her cell phone to use and erased what was left on it. No one can be that cheap as to take a used cell phone from a murdered victim.

Death and the Beauty Queen

JES, Bellows Falls, VT — Tue, 06 May 2008 16:42:11 GMT

I just watched 'Death of a Beauty Queen' online and it is just incredible to me that this young man could have been railroaded this badly in this day and age. He is innocent and thank god is family had the means to be able to prove it. I totally agree that there is something up with her mom and stepdad, why on earth would he want to use his murdered step daughter's cell phone and why would he erase everything on it. It is also weird that he made so many phone calls that day. I am no expert but the cops need to take a closer look at the her parents. Please post updates if this case is finally solved....

Death and the Beauty Queen

The Mixtape Monster, Chapel Hill, NC — Tue, 06 May 2008 20:01:20 GMT

I agree with a lot of what some people are saying. The mother saying that she was "certain" after the trial that Kevin did it was crazy...no one else came out of the trial thinking that. They should investigate the step-father, who gave her a 9PM curfew! He probably found out the kids were having sex and went ballistic on her.

The whole palm print thing is crazy too. That is OBVIOUSLY a weighted lamp. You can't pick that up by the lightbulb and swing it and kill someone. You would have to pick it up by the base and do some kind of "bashing" motion....which is why they should be looking for whoever left fingerprints on the base...not Kevin.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Frances Leblanc, NS, Canada — Wed, 07 May 2008 02:42:13 GMT

I had chills when I first heard Nona singing, and her mom seemed so proud. But then her daughter is murderd and she shows no emotion???? (odd) Just looking at the step father makes me wonder. He says that it wasn't his job to raise Nona, but know he seems so concerned....(odd) Erases the cell phone... I think Russellville should try and look for the truth instead of building a truth!!!! My thoughts are with Nona and Kevin

Death and the Beauty Queen

DBG — Wed, 07 May 2008 04:18:48 GMT

First case for the homicide detective? Maybe he needs a different job, like handing out parking tickets.

Death and the Beauty Queen

P Green Wasco, Calif — Wed, 07 May 2008 06:32:30 GMT

The step father and mother are definely linked to the murder of this young lady. My question is:"where did the faher get the battery? Did he have a receipt? Man the cost of those batteries are way more than the phone.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Jake Seattle wa — Wed, 07 May 2008 06:40:27 GMT

was the blood on the lamp wet or dry? if kevin touched the light bulb after her held Nona it should still have been wet when the cops showed up. wouldn't you think if kevin did it the blood on the light bulb would be dry? how much time had elapsed before Nona was found murdered? how long does it take for blood to dry?

Death and the Beauty Queen

Carole Jensen Clarksville TN — Wed, 07 May 2008 18:05:23 GMT

I think that by ignoring all of the additional evidence that was avai. at the crime scene, that the killer may never be brought to justice. If it was Kevin, he was pretty smart and now is free. I know that sociopaths can be extremely convincing. I wasn't 100% convinced that it wasn't him, but had I been on that jury I'd have had to find for not guilty also based upon the prosecution's screw ups. The show made the step-father look guilty, but that may be nothing. I think a real villan in the case was that disreptuable newspaper who planted their box at the courthouse to influence jurors and who continue to publish stories about Kevin that accuse him. That's dirty journalism and if I worked for that paper, I'd be ashamed. I hope to find out who killed Nona. It's a case I'll think about.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Maria Ruppert-Pappas, Trabuco Canyon, CA — Wed, 07 May 2008 22:38:45 GMT

I know a woman of 49 living in Southern California with similiar life experiences to that of Nona. She was sexually abused by her father as a little girl. Her life was threatened if she ever told so she kept her secret inside while the fear and shame festered inside her for years....Over the last 40 years my friend has been cripled by depression and frequently talks to me about how the world would be a better place without her. She has been in Therapy for years resulting from the years of sexual abuse by her father. She has not seen nor heard from her father in over 20 years nor does she ever care too. The tragedy here, like Nona, my friend and so many others with similiar stories of sexual abuse live each day with cripling depression and thoughts of suicide. Like Nona my friend was murdered too....the difference is my friend was murdered emotionally vs physically.....In my mind there is little difference between the two. Please continue to bring these stories to light.

Maria

Death and the Beauty Queen

John S. Pewaukee, WI — Thu, 08 May 2008 01:52:12 GMT

Nothing was mentioned into an investigation to find out who Nona was having a relationship with outside of hers and Kevins. Why not ?

Death and the Beauty Queen

K, APO, AE — Thu, 08 May 2008 09:36:00 GMT

Wow, how did this case against Kevin even make it to trial? As an unattached outsider looking at the evidence, it seems obvious that they had nothing to point to him as the murderer and that he is really NOT guilty. Sad that he has been put through all of this. And her family?? I agree with everyone else. There was something very unsettling in their behavior. Their demeanor seemed more odd than anything her boyfriend did. I don't want to do the same thing the investigators and prosecutors did, convict someone without evidence, but there is something very peculiar about them.
I also think in cases like this, investigators and prosecutors alike need to have some sort of discipline. This was horrible, how they handled the case and evidence!!!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Kevin McCurdy, Muttontown, NY — Thu, 08 May 2008 12:02:02 GMT

Why do these cases always seem to come from a small town who's worst crime is usually running a stop sign or disorderly conduct on a Friday night. The County or State Police should have been brought in to make up for an obviously total inept and inexperienced local force. If forensic evidence had been properly gathered and alalyzed, Kevin would not have been even charged. Should the real killer be located, prosecuted and convicted, Kevin should sue the town for everything they're worth. Maybe next time they'll at least make a better attempt at justice. The town police force is a disgrace to the Law Enforcement Community.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Michael — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:29:22 GMT

Yet again, what appears to be another case of police in America getting tunnel vision and doing a deplorable job of investigating. In America for many years now, it seems like the law, especially prosecutors are more interested in convictions than actual justice. If an innocent goes to jail, so what? "At least we convicted someone" seems to be the prosecutorial mantra of the times. Even though she was the mother, her comment about "if he didnt do it, why isnt he out there looking for her killer?" is ridiculous. Who would even know where to start, along with the fact of not having any kind of detective training and having to work to support yourself....(bills dont pay themselves" no one would "be out there looking" Stupid and cliche.

Death and the Beauty Queen

IRENE RITENOUR BANDON, OR 97411 — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:35:19 GMT

this great granny doesn't savie blog but i surely got the same impression as all the above. i could not "find" a mother in the smiling woman !! the husband seems a cold an calulating bleep. would not want to be in the same room with "it". kevin seems a good an decent person. clean out that police dept !!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Annie F, Washington, DC — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:44:03 GMT

Perhaps it was someone connected to the initial inexperienced detective. He could easily have hidden behind his "inexperience" in order to avoid some evidence for some reason...
Anyway there is no doubt in my mind that Kevin is innocent, and I am disgusted by the malleable minds of Nona's parents. Can we get an alibi on the stepdad AND the mom?

This could just as easily have been a random killer, too. Someone waiting in a parking lot sees a pretty girl pull in, watches her into the house, and tries the back door (which was locked with a stick.) Then again, it did seem to have been an impassioned crime. But maybe that's a signal of a killer who is mentally disturbed.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Becky — Thu, 08 May 2008 20:45:12 GMT

Like almost everyone who have written on this blog, I believe the step-father's behavior was strange. I wonder if the police checked his fingerprints and/or DNA. He seemed quite odd. Those type of men always seem to find women who will look the other way while their husbands/boyfriends molest and abuse their children. I think we need to see why the step-father was calling so much that day. Also did the police check to see if the step-father was really in the stores and didn't just have receipts?

Death and the Beauty Queen

Drz Denver,CO — Fri, 09 May 2008 04:30:14 GMT

I lived in Arkansas for about a year. People that are established in the community and are well off financially could literally get away with murder.The mother and stepfather's behavior striked me as very odd. Their lack of emotion for Nona is frightning. The stepfather looked like he had something to hide. The cellphone he removed was evidence in a crime scene and he should have been arrested for tampering with it. I hope this case can be solved for Nona because her soul needs closure.

Death and the Beauty Queen

L.Blackmore Gander, NL Canada — Fri, 09 May 2008 13:35:13 GMT

All we have here, is a very poorly conducted investigation of a murder crime scene. In this modern age, with all the technology available for crime scene investigations, how come there is no mention of who her supposedly other affaires were, and how extensive an investigation was conducted on these other boyfriends? Nothing in this case makes sense. I think the whole investigation, should be investigated. Let's face it,Heads should roll! God Bless this poor girl! I certainly don't think Kevin is Guilty!

Death and the Beauty Queen

Ken A.,providence,r.i. — Fri, 09 May 2008 17:26:36 GMT

I believe Kevin did it.He had time and a motive.Nona had another boyfriend or boyfriends.When he found out,he became enraged,lost control,and killed her.His plan to cover up his act was brilliant ,and I believe that his mother helped him every step of the way.It is absolutely unbelievable that in this day and age a young man would ask his mommy and a friend to accompany him to check in on his girlfriend.Did he take his mother with him every time he had sex with the girl?Of course not.His mother and friend are his witnesses.He couldn't discover the body alone.That would tie him to the crime.I think his friend is being used.I do not believe the friend was aware that he killed Nona earlier in the day.By revisiting the scene of the crime,Kevin was able to render all forensic evidence worthless.Anything linking him to the scene of the crime could now now be explained by his being there with his mother and friend.Kevin got away with murder just like O.J.did and so many other people do every day in this country.So what if one more murderer beats the rap?Remember this.Any of us are capable of taking the life of another when pushed over the line of sanity.

Death and the Beauty Queen

RB, Russellville, Arkansas — Fri, 09 May 2008 18:45:16 GMT

I am from Rsvl and know all about the case.

I want justice for Nona just as much as the next person, because everyday I walk the streets of Russellville. My family is there. The last thing I want to do is brush shoulders with a murderer. But I am not convinced Kevin did it. The justice system is set up to where, if you have any doubts about the suspect, the verdict is "not guilty."

The RPD messed up the case. Remember however, that they don't have CSI type capabilities, being a fairly small (25000) rural town.

However, a better job could've been done, on the police side, and the prosecutor's side of the case.

Hopefully, the killer will be found. Unfortunately, the longer the time from the murder date the less likely they find the killer.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Bonita Blomfield ,Pa — Sat, 10 May 2008 06:00:13 GMT

I believe the step-father killed Nona.Isure wish I had saved the recording of this show.I too love the song Nona was singing.But can't recall the name .

Death and the Beauty Queen

James Eason Dunn,N.C — Tue, 13 May 2008 06:02:02 GMT

She was a child. Put into a situation that an adult could only handle. The world was awaiting her. Some jealous person saw an opportunity to end her dream. The person or persons that killed her,knew she going to be a star.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Karen-United States — Tue, 13 May 2008 18:08:08 GMT

For Nona and all the other's out there,
I missed the show sadly to say poor babygirl.My prayer's and heart are with Nona I hope they find her killer.But all us innocent children are not beauty queen's that draw attention but at least her story was told unlike millions of other's.But I have read these comment's here and the article and my heart break's for this innocent child that had her life taken away long before somebody killed her by her father!!And lord only know's who else before some sick S.O.B. killed her.And I have been threw what this child went threw and my mom knew all along!{It is called denial it is easier to not believe then to believe!} How can a mother not know if she has any eye's heart or soul somewhere within her had to have known please give me a break and she did nothing to help her.Even after she Nona's mother was told by Nona I have to assume cause why is she dead and why was she cutting herself well hello she was hurting in the deepest part of her and nobody to turn to including her mom!I don't know if her mom took her to counseling or not but if she did anything at all it never helped obviously and if you loved your child you wouldn't have stopped tell her pain did and she had learned to live with her pain so she wouldn't have to cut herself to get another pain to take that her father and whoever else did to her away that is why she was a cutter.So very very sad I am all toreup right know cause I know Nona's pain and the only way it ended was by some freak violating her yet again poor babygirl.Nona sweety if you can here my thought's you are with your true father right now and he loves you and will protect you from those people that hurt you in this world and the freak's that hurt many other's and they all will pay in the end on Judgement day if they are never caught here God know's everything and they will not ever be able to get away like some do here on this earth but they will not from God. And I pray they get the heartless piece of crap that killed her and take all down that knew not just the murder cause if the mother knew she should be put on trail too herself. Because God gave her that child to love and take care of to see no harm came to protect how ever need be counseling whatever and if she knew about the dad and possible even the step-dad and never protected Nona than in my mind she is just as guilty as the person or people that murdered Nona!
And trust is not easy for people that have been molested like Nona and myself rape is totally different then incest it happens over and over many many times not only to you but within you it consumes your whole life and if you can not trust those who brought you into this world you need someone and she trusted Kevin and I hope he never killed her and got away with it because I can assure you she confided in him and then maybe he took her life that is really cold if you did Kevin but I pray you did not.And if you did not Kevin help find who did you most likely know more than alot do if Nona was like me she trusted you and shared her secret's with you because she loved you.
Sincerely
Karen

Death and the Beauty Queen

Mary B. — Tue, 13 May 2008 20:05:09 GMT

The song is by Andrea Bocelli - Con Te Partiro. It is a beautiful song and she had a beautiful voice when she sang it. What a sad story.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Dexter Rudy Morgan, Sylmar, Ca — Wed, 14 May 2008 03:06:10 GMT

I just don't understand how no one found it creepy and suspicious that the "Frugal" stepdad kept his Dead stepdaughters phone and all of the numbers and texts where missing? I mean really is it really that complicated to investigate someone on those grounds? I thing that is reasonable doubt!...who the heck would keep a dead persons phone and use it? I don't care how frugal you are that's Just creepy and suspect.

Death and the Beauty Queen

M. Hines — Mon, 26 May 2008 14:04:10 GMT

Saw this story again last night (May 25) and my husband and I truly believe it is the stepfather - for all the reasons stated in the above notes. 1) Nona moved out right when he moved in. That shows she didn't feel comfortable being around him. 2) The Xmas alibi -- all those receipts. Men don't shop that much - it's not in their nature. 3) The multiple telephone calls to the wife who said "He never calls me at work". She is either the dumbest person on earth or she's trying to cover up for him. I think she's just dumb. 4) The cell phone - C'mon !! I cannot imagine anyone wanting something as personal as a cell phone from a murdered loved one. The only way I would want it is to get the police to comb over it with a fine tooth comb to see if there are any clues in the memory. I would never erase the one thing that might help identify the murderer - especially if I thought it was Kevin. I would hope someone could find something to prove I was right about Kevin. Nope-- this guy erased it because it probably had something in it that would prove it WAS NOT Kevin.
Get this guy -- he's your murderer.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Melissa, Pennsylvania — Mon, 26 May 2008 16:11:54 GMT

i highly doubted it was Kevin Jones and I believed that he was innocent. I think the police should go and figure out who her other boyfriend was... Maybe he found out about her and Kevin and got mad at her and killed her? or maybe it was her step-father? they should also put him threw all the questioning they put threw Kevin and see how he feels... Like he said that Kevin should "man-up" maybe her step father should "man-up" and STOP blaming it on an innocent person... I'm all for Justice For Nona... but they need to find the real perpetrator and stop blaming it on Kevin. Even though he found her doesn't mean he killed her. I like you, Kevin and I hope u get your justice in this case.. and I hope you treasure the memories of you o2 forever and as for Nona; I hope you get your justice too.. R.I.P. and I hope they find the true person who killed you.. and whoever that person is one day they'll find you and I hope you get persecuted and put threw the pain you did to innocent Nona... as Ill say again I like you Kevin and I hope everything goes well in your future. your a great kid and if you really do know something or someone says something to you in the future about her don't be afraid to say anything to the police because I know you really want to find out who did this to her... I like how involved you are and your going to be a great guy and you'll get to see her in the future and I'll be happy when you guys will be together again =]]...

R.I.P. Nona you’ll be in my ♥ I will see you in Heaven in the future..

Death and the Beauty Queen

Sylvia Slife,Celina,Ohio — Tue, 27 May 2008 03:13:17 GMT

Rest In Peace Nona Dirksmeyer's....
Do you have anymore information on this report.Has the Attoneys said anymore.I think of Nora offen and I want the right person to pay and pay dearly for the lost of this beautiful soul...Please write me back with a yes we are looking into this.

Death and the Beauty Queen

anonomus — Tue, 27 May 2008 06:01:40 GMT

I have read several of thies blog"s, It seems that most of them point to step dad as guilty. If he were guilty convicting kevin would have cleared him. register recipts unless they were signed credit card recipts could have been made by anyone even an unloving mother making an aliby. certenly retriving a cell phone from anyones dead little girl to grab up for personal use is both cold and empty. I am a compleat stranger and just the thought of it hurts.

Death and the Beauty Queen

anonomus — Tue, 27 May 2008 06:28:41 GMT

Other things of interest might be. It would seem The local Paper was awfull pressed on convicting a young man they really knew nothing about. It might be concluded some of the papers reporters might have been following the little beauty Queen in her pagents and developed a fatle atraction. It would seem extrodanarily pressed to go all the way as far as putting a newspaper box 30 miles away at the court house just sway or control the trial where there was no conclusive evedence. how could they be certin enough to go to this trouble. maby they were trying to hide somthing.was their a relationship with the editor of the paper and the step father. Oh so many posible unfollowed steps.

Death and the Beauty Queen

anonomus — Tue, 27 May 2008 07:28:12 GMT

I have another Question. about the gift recepts, or shoping recepts. with recepts theirs merchendise what was bought who was in posesion of them. if they were gifts were they things a man would generally buy if they were given to somone, who did the recipiant recive them from. might be more evedence

Death and the Beauty Queen

Pixel Cutter — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 09:43:48 GMT

Who ever it was she let in the house or forced their way into the front door when she went to answer it. People stated that they saw a man around the apartments. After he had killed her he removed the stick from the sliding back door and went out the back way. Was the stick ever checked for blood? Kevin knew she always kept the stick there to keep the door from being slid open. Kevin's hands would have been noticeably bruised and swollen if he had done it to.
That crime scene investigator should go back to school to learn how to sweep a crime scene. The people knew more about what to do then he did.

Death and the Beauty Queen

Sheri, Small town Iowa — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 01:12:12 GMT

Have there been any new developements in this case. I feel so bad for Kevin and hope that soon there will be justice for Nona.