[John H K]

Look, if the 9-year-old is lying to protect her sister, the cops would have broken her down by now. If there were inconsistencies in her story, they would have figured it out and -- well, she'd be downtown now, sitting across from a couple of very angry detectives who would scare the bejeezus out of her!

I'm sure the cops will play along for a few days or a week or so...makes them look evil if they immediately come out publicly with doubts about the story, the parents go ballistic and go on "Good Morning America", etc.

No matter what, the girl actually is missing, so they can just look for her. And I'm sure they're suspicious about the story and working quietly behind the scenes on their suspicions, while the public search for the girl goes on.

[homeschool mama]

Am I correct in assuming you think the 9yo girl is at fault here? You're blaming a mere child?