"Even though they can't say anything, they had to give a press conference. I can just imagine the outcry if they hadn't."
I disagree respectfully. You never have to give a press conference. Especially if the outcome gives the majority of viewers thoughts like "Well, they're just doing this to pat themselves on the back." That's terrible strategy.
I still find this "pat themselves" interpretation amusing. Yes, she thanked her team, but let's see now.... She also thanked Thailand police, the Georgia police, the FBI guy in Atlanta I think it was, and others who assisted with the case. In other words, if you've had so many people help you, it's only polite to thank them and mention them in public, especially if you need their help in the future on this case or another one. That's excellent strategy.