Alissa Turney’s Disappearance Returns to the Spotlight
The mysterious disappearance of Alissa Turney, a 17-year-old girl from Phoenix, in May 2001, is once again capturing public attention. A recent “20/20” special has rekindled interest in the case, shedding new light on unsettling discoveries, including hidden cameras within her home.
Allegations and Surveillance
Police documents have raised disturbing allegations regarding Alissa’s stepfather, Michael Turney. According to People magazine, her then-boyfriend, Jon Laakman, reported to the police that Michael Turney seemed to exercise excessive control over Alissa, closely monitoring her every move. Alissa herself was aware of this surveillance.
Murder Charges and Acquittal
Over two decades after Alissa’s disappearance, Michael Turney faced second-degree murder charges in Maricopa County, Arizona Superior Court. However, in July, he was acquitted. During the trial, prosecutors claimed that Turney had spent years recording Alissa’s conversations and videos. His defense countered that the evidence presented was irrelevant and portrayed him as a “bad father and pervert.”
The presiding judge ultimately sided with the defense, resulting in the dismissal of the case. Despite the acquittal, Alissa’s five siblings maintain their belief that Michael Turney is responsible for her disappearance.
Additional Legal Troubles
Although cleared of his daughter’s murder, Michael Turney faced legal trouble in 2010 when he pleaded guilty to possessing 26 pipe bombs found during a search warrant execution related to Alissa’s missing person case in 2008. Federal prosecutor Dennis Burke described him as a “dangerous man” who needed to be taken off the streets.
Mixed Claims and Family’s Persistence
In an interview with “20/20,” Michael Turney defended the videos, claiming they were recorded out of concern for his family’s security. He even added a sarcastic comment, asking, “Why, because I want to spy on everybody?” while chuckling.
Alissa’s half-sister, Sarah Turney, has been vocal about the case on TikTok and launched her podcast, “Voices for Justice.” She shared a secretly recorded conversation in which Michael Turney allegedly said, “Be there at the deathbed, Sarah. I will give you all the honest answers you want to hear.”
The day Alissa vanished, she attended her boyfriend’s woodworking class at Paradise Valley High School, stating that her stepfather was picking her up early. According to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, this marked the last known contact with Alissa.
Unwavering Family Dedication
Despite differing opinions on the case’s outcome, Alissa’s family’s commitment to seeking justice for her remains steadfast. Their twenty-year-long struggle serves as a testament to their love for Alissa as they persistently pursue answers.