Bismarck Tribune - Bismarck News - Gibbs' arrest is shocking to those who know suspect

Gibbs' arrest is shocking to those who know suspect

Sep 22, 2006 - 02:07:35 CDT

Bismarck Tribune

By VIRGINIABy VIRGINIAGRANTIER

Valley City people interviewed Thursday who know Moe Maurice Gibbs, 34, could only come up with good things to say about him, couldn't come up with anything negative - couldn't even think of any self-destructive habits like smoking that he might have had.

Kristi Schweitzer, manager of the Wagon Wheel Inn in Valley City, said the community is rocking from this, in part because of who was arrested - out of all people.

Schweitzer said he's known as a nice guy.

She said the arrest of Gibbs, in connection with the murder of Mindy Morgenstern, has devastated her son - and she thinks there are probably "a lot of upset little boys"in Valley City.

Schweitzer said Gibbs this spring was the basketball coach for her son's Valley City Parks and Recreation league team.

"He was an awesome coach,"she said.

Gibbs was arrested Wednesday and charged with Class AAmurder for the death of Morgenstern, 22, a Valley City State University student who was found dead Sept. 13 in her off-campus apartment. The criminal complaint filed against him alleges he killed Morgenstern by cutting her throat.

Schweitzer said everyone felt so fortunate to have someone of his talent coaching the boys, who were ages 8 and 9, and really looked up to him. "He was such a good coach. He could get down to the level of 8- and 9-year-old boys."

She said she also knew him as an employee.

Schweitzer said Gibbs, who lived in the Fargo area, wanted a job at the Wagon Wheel Inn in Valley City so that he could be near his fiancee.

Schweitzer said Gibbs' fiancee had worked at the inn a long time ago and came with Gibbs for the job interview to explain their situation and to help him get the job.

Schweitzer said it was explained to her that Gibbs lived in the Fargo area during the week and wanted to come to Valley City on the weekends.

Behind him was a life that started, according to his birth certificate, on Aug. 10, 1972, in Merced County, Calif., when he was born to a 15-year-old mother and a 20-year-old father, who was then a maintenance worker, employed with Merced College in California.

He started out with a different name:Glen Dale Morgan Jr. He had that name until 2005, when he petitioned the Cass County District Court for a name change, and gave as the reason on the petition: "My father abandoned me and has never been a part of my life. I want to no longer be known as having the same last name."

The petition stated that the petitioner "has never been convicted of a crime or a felony." The court OK'd the change in June 2005.

At age 18, Gibbs was in the U.S. Navy, serving from August 1990 to July 1999 at Whidbey Island, Wash., according to a resume he provided Barnes County when applying for a job as a Barnes County correctional officer.

In the Navy, he was a search and rescue supervisor, according to the resume. He was a night supervisor of 15 to 35 personnel; trained all new incoming personnel; created schedules and directed duties to all personnel; and assisted and was directly involved in all search and rescue missions.

Gibbs also provided this information in his resume, which the Tribune was unable to confirm:

From 2000 to May 2003 he studied "medical assisting"at Whatcom Community College in Bellingham, Wash. From April 2002 to May 2003 he was lead shipper at a company called Fast Cap in Bellingham.

Then he was in Texas:From August 2003 to May 2004, he was studying medical assisting at the Hallmark Institute of Technology in San Antonio, Texas, and was working at Sea World in San Antonio in the shipping and receiving department from June 2003 to December 2004.

Also during that time, according to Texas' boxing association - the Texas Boxing and Wrestling Program - he was licensed as a boxer from August 2003 to August 2004.

Then he was in North Dakota:From June 2004 to May 2005, he studied physical education at Mayville State University and was working as a housekeeper at Fargo's Wingate Inn from June 2005 to December 2005.

It was in December 2005 that Schweitzer gave Gibbs a job at the Wagon Wheel, which he kept through March, when he left for something else, she said. She didn't have any concerns about his job performance. She said he did have to miss some weekends.

Schweitzer said it was in the summer of 2006 that he married his fiancee. She said Gibbs' wife, an artist and photographer, has graduated from Valley City State University, and the couple has a daughter, who is 16 months old.

"He seemed like a very loving father to his daughter and new wife," she said.

At the time of his arrest, Gibbs was employed as a Barnes County jailer.

Doug Peters, the university's athletic director, confirmed that Gibbs' wife is the daughter of the university's athletic trainer, George Judd.

"The department is very supportive of the Judd family, as is the entire university,"he said.

Peters said he knew Gibbs as an acquaintance.

He said Gibbs came to many of the athletic events with his family.

"He carried himself well, was always respectful,"Peters said. "There wasn't anything abnormal about the guy."

(Reach reporter Virginia Grantier at 250-8254 or at virginia.grantier@;bismarcktribune.com.)

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Comments

Shocked wrote on Oct 7, 2006 10:49 AM:

" Apparently they found DNA under 2 of her fingernails. Everyone is aware that DNA can be collected also off a doorknob, mailbox, etc. They did share the same apt bldg. I just hope his name and past didn't get splashed around on some hype charge. I'm not convinced either way - and I know Glen. God bless America....yea, right. "

BlackandWhite wrote on Oct 3, 2006 6:05 PM:

" Shocked you say this guy is big how come as a proffesional fighter he lost six out of his seven fights. just to let you know there is a heck of alot of bigger boys than him that has came through the system. either way he will be locked up for the rest of his life and will be remembered as a number. the system does not fight fair. so if he gets out of line he will go down weather it takes ten guys or a helicoptor nobody is stronger than the system!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

shocked wrote on Oct 3, 2006 3:18 PM:

" Blackandwhite: He'd do just fine with the "big boys" believe me. Glen is a big dude. Incredulous: thanks for the link - I am really interested in finding out more. Many people are saying they can't believe a rapist/murderer was also a standup citizen. I don't know I would ever call him standup, but he had the usual...a unfortunate childhood and for his young adult life (the time I knew him) he was always just trying to make his life better. If he is guilty of this crime, I guess that didn't work out for him. "

Guess who? wrote on Oct 1, 2006 10:21 AM:

" Only in North Dakota...Once again..all minorities are GUILTY UNTIL PROVEN INNOCENT.........Read between the lines..people?? "

BlackandWhite wrote on Oct 1, 2006 12:26 AM:

" The news talks about how shocking that this man with a awsome backround whould do such a thing. "well he did". now he is going to spend the rest of his life behind razor wire. the only thing that is wrong here is its in the North Dakota Prison. this man should do some hard time in the federal prison with the big boys. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 30, 2006 3:34 AM:

" Shocked: They've allegedly retreived DNA evidence from underneath the victim's fingernails that match Moe's DNA. Once his DNA was run in Fargo, it match DNA obtained in an unsolved sexual assualt from several years ago. If you go direcly to www.bismarcktribune.com, you should be able to searh for, and find, all relevant articles. hope this clears up some stuff for you. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 29, 2006 10:44 PM:

" Another missing goat... Good work, Josh. "

someone who cares wrote on Sep 29, 2006 5:59 PM:

" Josh, who wrote on September 26th. If someone killed your sister or your mother or someone close to you would you want him back on the streets? Get a clue! "

Shocked wrote on Sep 29, 2006 12:57 PM:

" Hi there, I am writing from out of state and couldn't believe when I saw the link emailed from a friend. I know Glen "Moe" and it seems completely out of character for him to do somethign like this. I'm just curious because I cant see local news, do they have any evidence yet per se? I've read details that he works at the university, etc...but anything concrete. I've been out of touch with him, but I am concerned. I hope true & honest justice is served for both the victim & her family and friend, as well as the accused. "

Tired wrote on Sep 28, 2006 8:59 AM:

" I think we should be a little more like Texas. Instead of letting these people spent time and money fighting appeals, we need to put in a "speed lane". I can't remember exactly how it works but if there are 2 or 3 witnesses then the defendent only gets one appeal. Then they are executed a year after the appeal. It's so frustrating to find out that the criminals that are committing these horrorific crimes seem to be habitual offenders. What does the family of the victim feel is the right punishment? Maybe they should make the ultimate decision. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 27, 2006 2:31 PM:

" Friend, you clearly don't understand the legal issues in this case, or the fundamentals of Communist China. Stick with what you know. As far as this being a "fast" process, it's likely far from over, despite how hard anyone is praying. "

Friend wrote on Sep 27, 2006 1:38 PM:

" To Incredulous .. I will not change my name to "Friend of Communist China".. The way it is sounding with your comments, maybe you should!?.. I just don't agree with how we continually give these creeps appeals.. and appeals! When they are GUILTY. The people that he raped, attempted to kill & killed didn't get a second chance!! Mindy's family has to live with this day in & day out... The Power of Prayer is unbelievable people, This is Mindy working on the other side making this a FAST process.. AND having solid proof for the case, she wanted him to be stopped before he hurt anybody else!!..and all of his horrible past to come out! Josh please.. I do hope you are having some SICK humor! Would you really want him to coach you or your kids, knowing his past! "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 26, 2006 9:59 PM:

" I'm just pointing out the distinction. Declaring someone "not guilty" is essentially shorthand for declaring them "not guilty beyond reasonable doubt." Under the legal standard, they are "not guilty" under the burden of proof required for a conviction, even though, in truth, they may not be innocent. It may seem to be semantics to you, but there's an important distinction between the two. Yes, it may lead to unfair results at times, but it exists to create system that is fair overall. As the cliche says, we'd rather set 10 guilty men free than imprison one innocent person. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 26, 2006 9:55 PM:

" I stand corrected on the issue of "irregardless." It is a "word," if by word you mean listed in the dictionary. While it may be listed in the dictionary, it is considered "nonstandard" and improper. Irregardless is redundant, as it means the same thing as regardless. The American Heritage Dictionary states that, "Irregardless is a word that many mistakenly believe to be correct usage in formal style, when in fact it is used chiefly in nonstandard speech or casual writing." It's a little better than using "tooken," but not by much. "

Mr. E wrote on Sep 26, 2006 8:07 PM:

" Incredulous: And just because the system can be exploited does not make a guilty person "not guilty." Hence, at times, we don't have a fair system like you said. Do I really have to spell everything out to you or do you just enjoy skating around and picking out bits and pieces of everyone's post? "

Tired of it! wrote on Sep 26, 2006 8:05 PM:

" To Incredulous: Irregardless is a word. You can check Webster's Online Dictionary. And to the many others: use a spell checker! "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 26, 2006 7:48 PM:

" I agree that it can be an effective bartering tool in some cases when you're searching for the truth, but it didn't work in the Rodriguez case, as he could have probably saved a lot of heartache, time and money in admitting where she was right away (although I can't remember if the feds came in right away or not). He didn't offer to plea until last Spring, which was way too late, and who knows if he would have even admitted to the atrocities he committed. Good to debate with you, too! I think (hope) Josh was being sarcastic. "

K wrote on Sep 26, 2006 7:15 PM:

" to Incredulous: No of course their not going to be Normal, But it would protect all potential victims. Because once they commit that type of crime they never stop until the day they die. "

bigpoppakdog wrote on Sep 26, 2006 7:11 PM:

" to:incredulous..ok you cleared up alot. yes I do agree with you that the death penalty doesn't work. My belief is because it isn't carried out fast enough nor consistantly enough. We have had alot of murders in north dakota the last couple years, but only 1 has went to the death penalty due to a loophole(lack of a better term). But it would be nice to have it to use it as a barter tool for gaining the truth. Yes, we shouldn't condemn people right away(I remember Mr. Jewel who was accussed of blowing up the olympics), but in the same sense we need to allow people to vent their frustrations. Although I do find it rather disturbing and sickening that josh's comment was allowed on this or for that matter even thought about. But I guess that's why we need laws and courts because of people like Josh who support having a convicted attempted murderer(so far...i won't go any farther than that incredulous :) ) for a coach. Peace out incredulous it was enjoyable to debate with you. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 26, 2006 7:10 PM:

" Of course not, that's why they're found "not guilty" instead of "innocent." "

Mr. E wrote on Sep 26, 2006 7:01 PM:

" But sometimes the system is not fair, accurate or just. It can be exploited. And just because the system can be exploited does not make a guilty person innocent. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 26, 2006 6:05 PM:

" Leah, have you checked on your goat lately? It might be missing. And, although I didn't see it with my own eyes, I have reason to believe that Josh took it. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 26, 2006 6:03 PM:

" Still won't work, Mr. E. Sorry, they get jury trials, too. We have to have a fair system for everyone and we can't base it on the evidence. There'll still be a fight between the lawyers, it'll just be on different issues, e.g., what evidence is admissible, etc. It'll be a trial to see if there should be a trial, so it doesn't really solve anything. "

Mr. E wrote on Sep 26, 2006 5:44 PM:

" Josh: And Dahmer was a nice quiet neighbor. Also, what "community" are you talking about? The many voices in your head don't count. But, everybody has a right to their opinion(s). "

Leah wrote on Sep 26, 2006 5:30 PM:

" Josh, maybe you should be behind bars with this creep! How could anyone rally around this guy. Am I really reading this post on here. I had to do a double take to make sure I was on the blog that I thought I was on.... "

Nadine wrote on Sep 26, 2006 5:27 PM:

" Response to: Paying for Criminals, please publish your address so none of us are unfortunate enough to end up as your neighbor! We live under the Constitution that allows us all to have freedom to live where we want to, this includes North Dakota. You will never stop people from moving there and you certainly can't stop their behavior. Just be hopeful that none of your children, grandchildren, cousins, nephews, nieces or whatever will ever committ this type of crime. And don't even try to say, NEVER! Because you just don't know, in the meantime, stop making a fool out of yourself with your comments. And I believe the last time I checked that there are a lot more people leaving there than moving in which isn't good for business, taxes etc. And don't forget, there have been horrible murders committed in other states by former North Dakotan's and very horrible murders right in your own state by your local "good boys". So chill out! "

Mr. E wrote on Sep 26, 2006 5:25 PM:

" I'm talking about several eye witnesses - even video evidence, not just one or two who think they may have thought they saw something. Insurmountable proof. But hey, if the glove doesn't fit, you must acquit, right Incredulous? "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 26, 2006 5:14 PM:

" You would be a witness, not the decision-maker. You missed my point. Anyway, since we can't pick and choose what crimes and what circumstances allow for jury trials, we'll just have to make do with the fact that everyone charged with a felony gets one. And, eyewitness testimony has been proven time and again to be faulty. Read "The Perfect Witness" for discussion. "

Ghandi wrote on Sep 26, 2006 5:11 PM:

" An eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind. Man, I'm hungry. "

Josh wrote on Sep 26, 2006 5:07 PM:

" Such a loss to the community, super nice guy, and a great basketball coach. Hopefully parole will be offered if there is a conviction involved. I hope the community continues to rally behind him. "

Mr. E wrote on Sep 26, 2006 5:01 PM:

" Incredulous: How does it not fit in with the many posts that a judge/jury has to decide someone's guilt? 'Innocent until proven guilty' is a bogus term in instances where there are several eye witnesses and overwhelming evidence. It's just a phrase used to get crooked attorney's more money. I'm not condoning vigilante's, but sometimes (maybe often) the system isn't perfect and people need to stand up and fight for what is right. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 26, 2006 4:44 PM:

" One final point. "Unrational" isn't a word, either. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 26, 2006 4:44 PM:

" Mr. E: It was just a random comment, that's all, it didn't really fit into the blog. I have not contradicted myself. The use of sarcasm is not indicative of contradiction. As for my points, here they are. No, someone is not "guilty" until they've been proven so by a jury of their peers and given other constitutional guarantees. And, once they are proven guilty, I don't believe they should be put to death. Ever. The death penalty is not a deterrant, nor is it a useful tool for anything other than vengeance. We are the only Westernized, non-third world country to use the death penalty. We are also a nation of laws that believes in using our system to promote justice, not allowing irrational individuals to take matters into their own hands and murder someone as revenge. I do think it's irresponsible to teach your children that vengeance and vigilanteism are good qualities to have, regardless of who you are and what your values are. If someone I loved were killed, yes, I would be angry, maybe even angry enough to kill someone that I believed did it. But, alas, the system saves me from myself, putting this person on trial before unbiased individuals sworn to uphold the law. Is that clear enough for you? "

Scared wrote on Sep 26, 2006 4:39 PM:

" What ever happened to "An eye for an eye?" Rodriguez was only out 6 months & did it again. It took this guy 5 years to rape & 6 years to murder. Why should we keep him alive? If this was my child & he was proven innocent, they better keep him behind bulletproof glass for the rest of his life "AN EYE FOR AN EYE!" And yes, I do know the full details. "

Mr. E wrote on Sep 26, 2006 4:01 PM:

" What is the point you are really not understanding? It's a one sentence opinion, not Sodoku. "

bigpoppakdog wrote on Sep 26, 2006 3:49 PM:

" to incredulous: So what is your stance? You speak in confusing contradictions with sarcastic remarks. You speak as though you want to be intelligent, but then contradict or throw in smart--- remarks. Do you believe a person has to go through the courts and pronounced "guilty" in order to be guilty? Are you under the assumption that people who are angry and what has happened are a bunch of unrational "hillbillies or bullies?" Do you assume that people are to follow your beliefs for their children?? You need to either look closely at your comments or clarify what your main points are and not contradict yourself. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 26, 2006 3:36 PM:

" Mr. E: I don't really understand your point. "

Mr. E wrote on Sep 26, 2006 3:23 PM:

" If I witness someone committing a crime, I don't need a judge or jury to tell me that person is guilty. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 26, 2006 3:18 PM:

" I know the family and I knew of Mindy, so thank you for assuming I've only read about it in the paper and don't know the "secret" details. I have compassion, only I have it for all involved. The victim, the alleged perpetrator (he hasn't even had his prelim yet!), the victim's family, the alleged perpetrator's family, society as a whole. I didn't show my compassion for Mindy and her family in my comments because k's comments weren't specifically about this case, they were about eradicating evil by acting like a bunch of hillbillies. "

bigpoppakdog wrote on Sep 26, 2006 3:03 PM:

" to incredulous: your comments seem like you are a robot or something. No compassion. This young lady that we are posting about was brutely(to say the least) killed. The details will come out to everyone eventually, but some of us know the details already. Maybe the thought of your loved ones suffering the fate of this young lady would change your mind-again if you knew some more of the details, not just what you've read in the paper. As far as the death penalty the only benefit would be a negotiation tool. it doesn't deter anything I agree, but it would be nice to use as a tool to get to the truth. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 26, 2006 2:36 PM:

" I'm not a counselor, so I wouldn't try to handle it on my own, I would take that child to a counselor, and continue to do so for many years. Is it horrible? Yes, it's a horrendous crime, but let's be reasonable. Killing that person isn't going necessarily to keep your 2 year old safe (unless we start killing everyone that gives off the creepy vibe and then some), nor will it undo the harm that's been done if it's after the fact. That child isn't going to be normal because you put a bullet in the perpetrator's head. "

newfaithman wrote on Sep 26, 2006 2:16 PM:

" it is so sad that people kill one another. However EVERYONE accused is innocent until PROVEN "

k wrote on Sep 26, 2006 2:13 PM:

" to Incredulous. Really, well try explaining to a 2 year old girl or boy why they were raped. I'd like to stand there and listen to you explain it to them. "

Heather wrote on Sep 26, 2006 2:05 PM:

" Nothing should surprise anyone in this society anymore. I know nothing really "shocks" me anymore. There are some real sick people out there no matter where you live, just because we live in ND doesn't mean that weirdos rapists and serial killers can't move here. So unless you are going to go to the depths of the sea to find out who you are surrounded by and what your neighbors have done in the past then it is pointless to say "I can't believe he did that" or "I can't believe that happened here". What we need to do as women is to be aware of the fact that this can happen anytime, anywhere to any one of us. I am absolutely OUTRAGED at the fact that this man was hired at a Police Station and no one knew... also the judge that allowed him to change his name should have done some more background on his previous name and made a condition that he carried his felonies over with his new name, than maybe, just maybe this could have all been prevented. If I was the family I would have so many questions for the entire system. Just as the Rodriguez creep SHOULD NEVER have been let out of prison, according to the prisons own Psychiatrist. Seriously folks, we need to stop having so much sympathy for these creeps and not continue to give them 2 and 3 chances to redeem themselves. Its just a shame. This young lady from Valley City had the entire world ahead of her and I know that all of her family and loved ones will continue to live on that dream for her. It is just a tragedy. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 26, 2006 10:54 AM:

" Leah, that's why we have a court system and a jury of strangers do the judging. As a victim, you're too close to it to make a rational decision and, as a society, we do not condone or reward vigilante justice. "

response to: Friend of Mindy's Family wrote on Sep 26, 2006 10:44 AM:

" We need harder penalties all around. The jail are NOT filled with people on marijauna charges, marijauna users barely get a slap on the wrist. I know that for a fact, personally knowing a repeat offender in that area. We need more capacity in our jails so people are held accountable for their crimes. The more they get away with, the bigger the crimes get. "

Leah wrote on Sep 26, 2006 9:08 AM:

" This guy is no better than Alfonso Rodriquez, If there is absolute proof that this guy did this. Ex. DNA, Let's get rid of him. He is a menice to society. This is not the first time that he violated someone. There is no hope for these monsters. If this would have happened to my child. I think that I could kill him myself. Incredulous, you must not have children. Someday, if you have a child you will know what I am talking about, because to me, my child is everything. "

justice for all wrote on Sep 26, 2006 5:59 AM:

" to Incredulous, so......whats wrong with society taking vengeance....at least when they release the body... it will not commit another heinous crime. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 25, 2006 7:52 PM:

" And, criminals aren't going to "think twice" about committing acts, even if you're ready and waiting with a colt .45 at the courthouse during their arraignment. Criminals don't think they'll get caught. If they did, they probably wouldn't do it. If they don't think they'll get caught, they don't think of the potential punishment. The death penalty has never been proven to be a deterrent to crime. It's only about vengeance, but no one will admit it because they realize that it sounds irrational and, well, stupid. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 25, 2006 7:48 PM:

" k: Maybe you should focus on imparting wisdom, compassion, logic and restraint in your three daughters. I hope you don't share your views with them. You should be more responsible with your words and thoughts so your children aren't maladjusted bullies with inappropriate knee-jerk reactions to happenings in the world around them. "

k wrote on Sep 25, 2006 7:14 PM:

" We do need a death penalty, and I don't mean sitting around for 20 years. Serial murderers, rapists, pedophiles all deserve death for their crimes. What is it 79 cents for a bullet, i would volunteer my time. I'm a mother of three daughters. I want them safe. Maybe people would think twice about committing such an act. "

t wrote on Sep 25, 2006 7:14 PM:

" To PO3. How did this become a political discussion. I agree that execution is probably the best sentence, but why bring politics into this. "

bigpoppakdog wrote on Sep 25, 2006 3:45 PM:

" yes, jails are costly to taxpayers, but what else are we to do? I guess expecting people to follow the law is asking too much. Maybe the justice system needs to look at who they are putting in prison for long periods of time and who are let go early. I do think sex offenders, attempted murderers, and murderers should be imprisoned for majority of their lives, while sentences for other crimes could be adjusted or some alternate form of rehab could be required. Prison does not cure anything. It is a punishment. The death penalty sounds good, but shoudn't it be for everyone? We have had a substantial number of murders, so shouldn't all murderers be automatically given the death sentence? After all they did the same thing, they ended somebody's life. I am not for the death penalty because as of right now it is set up for us to decide who will receive it and who will not. "

Mr. E wrote on Sep 25, 2006 3:23 PM:

" That was my point. Why would ND be singled out when the entire tax-paying country is footing the bill? If he would've been given life, there still would've been appeals. And English teacher...? I was a ditch-digger. "

PO3 wrote on Sep 25, 2006 3:08 PM:

" Well we've had two young college girls brutally murdered by men who had previous records but were released. Life without parole is ok, as long as some liberal judge doesn't set them free to murder someone else. If any conservative judges have done this with murderers I'd like to know his name. As far as executing these men, if its proof beyond doubt then yes, and then do it soon. If any doubt is in the equation then life without parole. When some punk goes in a convience store and shoots the clerk in the head and then looks directly at the camera recording this murder then I don't think we need a whole lot of appeals on their behalf. "

Pippy wrote on Sep 25, 2006 2:47 PM:

" Mr E: It's still ND money, in that we all pay federal taxes, don't we? Good thing you were an English teacher, not econ, huh? "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 25, 2006 2:45 PM:

" Friend, perhaps you should change your name to Friend of Communist China. If you want live in a land where execution is immediate and without the appeals process, I suggest you move there. If not, then you'll have to live in a place where we afford people constitutional rights, guarantees and freedoms. "

Mr. E wrote on Sep 25, 2006 2:44 PM:

" Once Rodriguez gets sentenced on Jan. 5, the federal Bureau of Prisons determines where he will be located. Possibly in Terre Haute, Ind. If that is the case, how will ND be spending millions of more dollars since it was a federal case? And I'd much rather have him rotting in a death-row prison in Indiana than a lesser one nearby closer to home. "

Friend wrote on Sep 25, 2006 2:22 PM:

" That is what is soo sickening about these situations!! It costs us millions of dollars for the death penalty.. I think we make it that way, it probably wouldn't cost that much if we didn't constantly appeal.. and appeal.. !! Did Mindy get to appeal??!!! I didn't think so. "

Deb wrote on Sep 25, 2006 1:43 PM:

" Because of the mandatory appeals process, sentencing someone to death costs more tax payer dollars than life in prison. Rodriquez will now cost the state of ND millions of dollars and will most likely die in prison during his appeals. From a fiscally conservative stance, we can't afford to sentence poeple to death anymore. "

To Rhetoric wrote on Sep 25, 2006 1:25 PM:

" The Court didn't know he had a criminal background - at least that is what the news says. "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 25, 2006 12:18 PM:

" I have a lot of thoughts after reading these posts, but I know they won't be well-received, so I'll leave it at this: "Irregardless" is not a word. Really, it isn't, so stop using it. "

Rhetoric wrote on Sep 25, 2006 9:59 AM:

" After reading this story, I am most disappointed that the government allowed this man to change his name knowing he had a criminal past. This puts all of us in harms way - unknowingly. A background check could easily miss this crucial information. "

Paying for Criminals wrote on Sep 25, 2006 9:25 AM:

" Lets just throw him in jail, pay for his meals, housing, and let him live out his days on our dime!(death to Gibbs) I don't care that he has a family, Mindy has a family that is missing a Daughter/sister. He is a killer, and should be sentenced to death, he raped another, got away with it, was in prison for premeditated murder, and now he finally killed an innocent little girl. Im sick of people making excuses for people like this, I look at the two killings of two young girls in OUR state, both by out of staters, both previously convicted, Im am so worried about our great state, when will we stand up and say NO MORE, you kill someone purposly, you will be penalized and that should be DEATH. If it were up to me I would run checks on everyone coming in, I don't care, the reason I stay here is because I havent been scared for my future children, they deserve to live in state without rapist and murderers living next door. If you want to give these animals rights MOVE!!!! go somewhere else, Im not going to shed a tear for you, or anyone like this monster. Keep ND clean, safe, and monster free. Stay out liberals..... "

Looking at the facts wrote on Sep 23, 2006 10:32 PM:

" Let's weigh all the facts about this guy first for all to see the light on this case. Pros:father,husband,son-in-law,coach,navel officer,security,officer,correctional officer,shipping receiver, boxer, medical assistant,housekeeper,student. Cons:determined DNA match to being a possible stalker,rapist and murderer according to the state crime lab evidence. Sure "innocent until proven guilty" but don't judge the book by its cover.Why? the name change after 30 + years? makes us all wonder what other crimes he has committed prior or what his chidhood behavior was? This was most likely a disorganzied crime done by a so called "pillar of the community". I say let's dust off " old sparky" and give him a jolt and serve justice for Mindy and her family/friends. Let's not forget Dru either. These young ladies will always be remembered and they deserve justice to be done to the men who took their innocents away from them and their family and friends, and North Dakota we need to put a stop to these horrifiying crimes and protect our college students. North Dakota is changing and we need to protect our people whether we think the death penalty is right or wrong. I for one do not like feeding and clothing an individual with my tax dollars who took anothers person's life until they die out of the prison system do you? Why should we pay for their appeals with our tax money? "

resume was not looked at wrote on Sep 23, 2006 1:38 AM:

" If you read the dates in the resume, how could he be working in San Antanio(June 2003-dec. 2004) at the same time he was suppose to be in N.D.June 2004 -May 2005) He sure got a dummy to read his resume. "

Mark wrote on Sep 22, 2006 10:37 PM:

" Geez people, simmer down. I do not feel this is anyway disrespectful to anyone. All this article was stating is that people who new the suspect were shocked because they knew him as a nice guy. They are just showing the other side of this murder, that murders are not always committed by the scarey, spooking, evil perverts, etc... Sometimes people who murder are people we would never suspect. I sure didn't get anything out of this story that would make me feel sorry for the guy or that it was trying to drum up any kind of support or sympathy for him. It is just another side to this very tragic story, that helps people try understand and make sense of it all. "

Friend of Mindy's Family wrote on Sep 22, 2006 8:51 PM:

" Very poor taste. This man sounds like a preditor and the DNA has already prooved it. Cruel! Mindy is no longer with us because of this man. I don't care to hear about this "outstanding citizen". This type of situation IS NOT ABOUT HIM. It's about Mindy, her family, and saving any other possible victims out there. We need to stop filling out jails with people with minor marajuana charges and start putting these preditors away FOR GOOD! Anybody remember Drew? This is a crazy world, and it's time our judicial system does something about it. Innocent until proven guilty? Sure. But keep him jail to help keep everyone safe until we find out. PLEASE! "

SomeObservations wrote on Sep 22, 2006 8:37 PM:

" bigpoppakdog: One of my points, one of which you obviously missed was that by taking, and running DNA of prospective law enforcement and support staff was that, if he'd applied for the jailor's job and it matched, he'd still have been off the street in September, 2006. Had he not applied for the job because he knew a DNA check would be done, he probably wouldn't have applied for a job that put him in a "position of trust," a position which may or may not have contributed to this beautiful young woman's death. I could live with either scenario. "

stepper wrote on Sep 22, 2006 6:49 PM:

" To Russ.....what if you were the innocent one in prison? Don't laugh, can happen to anyone at anytime and that is why we have to protect the right to a fair trial and the edict that one is innocent until proven guilty. I need to apologize to Friend of Mindy as I inadvertantly used your posting name in my reply to you. The posting of 12:36 PM is mine and not Friend of Minday as it says..again, my apologies. "

Nadine wrote on Sep 22, 2006 5:31 PM:

" I'm glad the Trib continues to write these articles to keep the locals fired up. It proves no one in ND can get a fair trial with all of the closed minds. To: whathavewebecome, about building a fence to keep the rifraf out, good luck. Look at the murders in ND and find they are committed by your very own. Case in point Zeeland ND in the early 80's when the 3 guys killed the Zick's; and how about Gordon Kaul?? Outstanding ND residents, so don't blame the out of state folks! This is truely a sad story all around, a beautiful girl lost her life, and a woman lost her husband and a daughter will never know her father. (Provided he is guilty that is, for now he is innocent.) Lets keep things in perspective people. If you all have proof that this man murdered and raped before please publish the links on this web site for us all to see. If you can't, don't speculate. And look at statistics that say most are not stranger related murders. The victims usually know the suspect. And there are two if not three sides to all stories. Be safe out there. "

freddy wrote on Sep 22, 2006 4:50 PM:

" why did he change his name?> he raped and killed before, he didnt protect anyone in his life, he only chose those jobs to pursue more victims. hang the predator in public, "

M wrote on Sep 22, 2006 4:48 PM:

" to we all know better: lots of innocent people being convicted? some numbers please. i understand it happens sometimes but lots? or do you mean people who are guilty getting off on technical language? we all knew rodriquez was guilty. so is this guy. the trial is only for show and to spend some tax money. this isn't california in the 50's. no one planted a gun on him. his dna under her fingernails. wonder how it got there? ever heard of the csi effect on jurors or public? should check it out sometime. "

Della wrote on Sep 22, 2006 3:41 PM:

" It doesn't matter if someone is the perfect role model in the next persons eyes, it doesn't mean they aren't capable of committing crimes such as the murder of Mindy. M......What about the BTK killer? Gee I wonder how many people were blindsided by BTK's involvment in the community where he lived.....Never judge a book by it's cover because it seems that when a person does this they are most of the time wrong........Your next door neighbor, church elder, teacher, pastor, CEO, scout leader, day care provider, doctor, nurse, (The list goes on) could be capable of committing horrible crimes regardless of their status in the community. Some people out there are good at gaining people's trust but truly live a different life behind closed doors, ND isn't like it was 50 years ago people, time to wake up and realize the crime is and will get worse! "

Bad Taste wrote on Sep 22, 2006 3:31 PM:

" Did I just read a huge article on why an accused rapist/murderer is such an outstanding citizen?! Spare me. PLEASE! "

bigpoppakdog wrote on Sep 22, 2006 2:56 PM:

" this guy's record was clean. He will be charged with a rape from 2004. He was not charged then because there was no dna to match. I was worried with this online posting that there will be a big debate about guilt/innocence. Yes he is innocent until proven guilty. But unfortunately just because a court says "not guilty" doesn't mean a person "innocent" and vice versa. Hopefully things are kept out of the media to prevent what's going on right now as I even write. A fair trial to both parties is important. I do find it curious why he changed his name though??? Pray for justice to be carried out! "

SomeObservations wrote on Sep 22, 2006 1:25 PM:

" Some/most states are requiring samples for school and support staff to check records for sex offenders. Why is law enforcement and their support staff, i.e. jailers aren't subject to the same requirements? The most important thing we can teach our children, our daughters in particular, is to ALWAYS be aware of their surroundings. Where are the exits? Always check the backseat area before entering your car. That others may not be as they present themselves, and what signs to look for. And to Colleen, we may never know "why" but if he's found guilty, does "why" matter? "

Russ wrote on Sep 22, 2006 1:06 PM:

" we all know better wrote on September 22, 2006 10:53 AM:"There is no innocent intill proven guilty. In this world any more lots of innocent people get accused and sent up for crimes they did not commit every day. Years later something comes up that shows that they did not do anything. Now they just lost a large part of there life that they will never get back time,family.childern ect.. It is very interesting that anyone would believe jailbirds and their claims of all being innocent. The fact is about 99 per cent DID commit the crime they are in prison for. This babbling about "lots" of "innocents" is sheer stupidity at it's worst "

Edward wrote on Sep 22, 2006 12:58 PM:

" Vet; his only addictions were rape and murder. Now that we know he only has an addiction I am sure there is a cure. "

Just Me wrote on Sep 22, 2006 12:50 PM:

" My question is? Irregardless of who did it, who do these people think they are...taking someone else's life? The decision of when we leave this earth is not supposed to be up to any human being....the good Lord upstairs should be in control of that. My heart goes out to all of Mindy's family and friends. God Bless You!! "

Friend of Mindy wrote on Sep 22, 2006 12:36 PM:

" My comment was aimed at earlier comments before me about the reference to death penalty for this person...Yes, DNA is powerful evidence but remember, there have been cases where the DNA has been tested wrongly in the labs and mistakes made, nothing is foolproof and that is why I still hold to "innocent until proven guilty." If we let that fade away in our courts (now days it is guilty until proven innocent seems like) no one will get a fair trial and if there is no fair trial right in this country, then we might as well go to a dictatorship...the choice is ours. Again, my heart felt condolences to the families involved. "

Friend of Mindy's wrote on Sep 22, 2006 12:12 PM:

" "Kill all suspects, arrest the slightest incongruity in anyone" is not how they handled this man. Yes, he does deserve a fair trial. However, he was arrested on DNA evidence...let's remember that. Mindy had to fight for her life and lost. We lost a beautiful girl, inside and out. I have faith that he will get a fair trial and get what he deserves. "

Friend of Mindy's wrote on Sep 22, 2006 12:09 PM:

" "Kill all suspects, arrest the slightest incongruity in anyone" is not the case here. Yes, everyone deserves a fair trial, but this man was arrested based on DNA "

stepper wrote on Sep 22, 2006 10:59 AM:

" What a vigilante state we have become! Kill all suspects, arrest the slightest incongruity in anyone...guilty until proven innoncent still stands (I think) If those of you who are wanting to stone him to death before trial have to face something similar, you would scream to the mountain tops about your rights..this individual has rights as well...how could he be put to death when not convicted of anything before this...of course it is a tragedy for such a beautiful young girl to have died so horribly and my prayers go to her family as well as to the suspect's family. Let the law do what it is supposed to do..find the truth and then deal appropriately. "

Emmy wrote on Sep 22, 2006 10:55 AM:

" I am not condemning this man yet. My point was just an observation. The article said how suprised people were to hear he was arrested for this crime. I am just comparing it to other criminals in history that show you can't tell a book by it's cover. Simple comparison, nothing more, nothing less. "

we all know better wrote on Sep 22, 2006 10:53 AM:

" There is no innocent intill proven guilty. In this world any more lots of innocent people get accused and sent up for crimes they did not commit every day. Years later something comes up that shows that they did not do anything. Now they just lost a large part of there life that they will never get back time,family.childern ect.. This world only cares that some gets punished no matter who it is and with out all the facts in. I am not saying he did not do it but i want to see ALL the evedance First Before i judge him. This truly has become a Guilty till proven innocent world and that is so sad "

north dakota native wrote on Sep 22, 2006 10:52 AM:

" I think its terrible that something like this is happening in small town north dakota ,but I think we should all be thankful that we live here where this is not an everyday occurence ,and I would like to say that this cold country living is still the best place to live Period compared other places in this country. "

whathavewebecome wrote on Sep 22, 2006 10:49 AM:

" This is a world where you have to be careful of who you meet, talk to, even walk by in your own apartment complex. Mindy was killed this month and another woman was alleged raped by two young men in Bismarck. What have we become North Dakota? Maybe we should build a fence to keep the rifraf out, because 40 below isn't doing it anymore. "

context wrote on Sep 22, 2006 10:45 AM:

" you people need to understand the context of stories like this. there are always two sides and regardless of guilt or innocense the media has an obligation to report stories. you can't condemn acquaintences for being surprised at someone's arrest regardless of the charge. innocent until proven otherwise. "

NorthDakotan wrote on Sep 22, 2006 10:41 AM:

" Remember folks it is "innocent until proven guilty," not "guilty until proven innocent." Remain calm and let our legal system do its thing. As far as the comment about North Dakota having a death penalty and that it would have prevented the suspect from doing what he is alleged to have done. Studies have shown that a criminal does not believe they are going to be caught thus they have little regard for the consequences of a death penalty. Recently State Senator Stan Lyson (R-Williston, a retired county sheriff) stated North Dakota would not enact a death penalty, as its cost was too prohibitive (endless appeals etc.) "

Seriously people wrote on Sep 22, 2006 10:23 AM:

" You people need to remember that he has NOT been convicted of any crime as of today. He is only being charged. So put your stones back in your pockets and wait for the verdict. What ever happened to "innocent until proven guilty??" "

JD wrote on Sep 22, 2006 10:20 AM:

" Anyone remember these four words: "Innocent until proven guilty."? "

vet wrote on Sep 22, 2006 9:57 AM:

" hey virginia, well at least he wasn't a smoker!! quote "couldn't even think of any self-destructive habits like smoking that he might have". well maybe he is adicted to booze or drugs? aren't those self destructive? but he must be adicted to other destructive habits like rape and brutally murdering a neat young lady! the glass stomach award is on it's way. "

Mandanite wrote on Sep 22, 2006 9:49 AM:

" In addition to John Gacy, Ted Bundy was also a well respected, well liked, very intelligent human being. Look at what he did. This story goes to show you that "nice guys" can also commit crimes!! "

coach wrote on Sep 22, 2006 9:43 AM:

" "This is why we need the death penalty"? He is already being stopped. He's under arrest. The death penalty wouldn't have stopped him from doing this horrible act. Jail will prevent him from ever doing it again. Sad, sad, sad story. Congrats to the Valley City police for quickly making an arrest. "

Emmy wrote on Sep 22, 2006 9:35 AM:

" John Wayne Gacy was a well respected husband, father, businessman and a pillar within the community. Nobody suspected he could have commited the violent crimes he was accused of either. But low and behold it was true, he led a double life for quite sometime without anyone the wiser. "

Dave wrote on Sep 22, 2006 9:22 AM:

" Maybe Virginia should have did a little more research and found out if maybe this piece of evil was also a Sunday school teacher. I really don't need to hear about what a wonderful man he is. Maybe the press is already starting his defense for him. I really hope that his fellow inmates get a kick out of his new name. Who the names themselves after one of the Bee Gees? To the Tribune enough niceness; report the brutality and pure ruthlessness that was taken out on Mindy who weighed maybe a hundred pounds and suffered from MS. "

sad wrote on Sep 22, 2006 9:21 AM:

" the guy has changed his name; has raped before and now murdered. what else has he done? I hope he gets what he has coming to him. "

Check your head ???? wrote on Sep 22, 2006 9:17 AM:

" Can we have a trial first? Would it make you feel better if the tribune lied and said he was a horible person? "

M wrote on Sep 22, 2006 9:12 AM:

" just shows what a sick, calculated killer he is. people that are really scary are the ones that can turn it off and on without hesitation. "

ya never know wrote on Sep 22, 2006 8:31 AM:

" This is why we need the death penalty. How many more women has this guy raped or killed? There is only one way to stop him. "

colleen wrote on Sep 22, 2006 8:08 AM:

" Why? is the question we are all wondering. "

Check your head wrote on Sep 22, 2006 5:29 AM:

" Wow, what a great guy! I'm a little disturbed to see so much positive info about a guy who's most likely a murderer and a rapist. In pretty poor taste if you ask me. My thoughts are with the victims and their families. "

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