Police reinforce investigation

Author: Anthony Adragna

The Middlebury Police Department (MPD) has added two retired Vermont State Police troopers to the investigative team convering the disappearance of Nick Garza '11, who vanished on Feb. 5 during February Break.

MPD retained the two troopers on contract, who were formerly stationed in Middlebury and New Haven and are familiar with the area, as special investigators. The additions will allow three investigators already on the MPD roster to follow up on leads and interview witnesses in the surrounding area, while the special investigators expand the investigation outside of the Middlebury area, according to a statement released by the MPD on March 3.

Should the special investigators develop any additional leads, they will pass the information on to the other investigators to follow up. MPD Chief Tom Hanley said in a Feb. 29 press release that the force continued to conduct interviews and analyze computer data in an effort to find Garza.

Additional federal resources have also been added to help search efforts. The Addison County Independent reported that a team from the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) Behavioral Analysis Unit will build a psychological profile of Garza using data collected from MPD investigations.

The information will allow investigators to understand Garza's actions and decisions on Feb. 5, the last night he was seen.

President of the College Ronald D. Liebowitz sent an e-mail to the College community on March 2, informing recipients that the College knew little more about Garza's disappearance.

"I write today with no new substantive information, which is as frustrating to me as I know it is for all members of the entire community," Liebowitz wrote. "I have spoken with many students over the last few weeks, and I understand how disturbing it is not to know why Nick has disappeared or where he is."

Liebowitz concluded the e-mail by suggesting student embrace each day as a gift and to continue to pray for Garza's return.

"Living with the uncertainty of the current situation is very difficult for all of us," he said.?"Perhaps the best way to confront that difficulty is to be extra grateful for the gift of each day."

Additionally, a $20,000 reward is being offered for information that will lead to Garza's safe return. The money comes from the Carole Sund/Carrington Foundation and Natalie Garza, Nick's mother.

Garza disappeared after last being seen in Stewart Hall just past 11 p.m. on the evening of Feb. 5. Anyone with information about his whereabouts should contact MPD immediately at 802-388-3191.