[freedox]

Do you have a source for those two facts, GS? I don't remember ever hearing or reading that, and I'd like to see exactly what the instructions/circumstances were. Thanks.

[Sherlock]

I don't remember ever hearing or reading that, and I'd like to see exactly what the instructions/circumstances were. Thanks.

It is a commonly known fact the parents were told not to discuss the kidnapping with MK to preserve her testimony. GovernmentShrinker's explanation is the precise legal explanation. The parents could not question MK and I'm surprised so many of you have forgotten that.

[Jolly Green]

Do you have a source for those two facts, GS? I don't remember ever hearing or reading that, and I'd like to see exactly what the instructions/circumstances were. Thanks.

There were three FBI agents living in the Smart home for about a week following the abduction.

[GovernmentShrinker]

Unfortunately, I just don't have time to track down the articles which discussed this, but I know multiple sources said FBI agents were living in the Smart home. And we have to remember that with the large crew of local and federal law enforcement on the case, basic standards of investigation were undoubtedly being met. One of those standards is to put the family under the umbrella of suspicion in a case like this, and another is to make sure that key witnesses are not tainted, coached, or "disappeared". I'm quite sure that LE didn't let little MK out of their sight or hearing for some time following the abduction -- at least until the child forensic psychologist(s) said they didn't expect to be able to get any further information from her.