[mgstarr]

This really isn't adding up right. Why does it seem like the cops are throwing things out there in hopes of spooking the abductor?

Most likely is still that she knew the man she left with.

[twigs]

I still think they may suspect who the perp is and thought he would have come forth by now with Elizabeth unharmed. But now, they're not so sure and are trying to convince him to do so. Or if they're unsure of his identity, trying to shakes someone's memory. They've proceeded all along as though they were pretty confidant she was still alive, IMO.