Continuing Coverage: Tortured Woman Found in Southern WV
Continuing Coverage: Tortured Woman Found in Southern WV Save Email Print
Posted: 11:35 AM Sep 18, 2007
 Last Updated: 8:59 PM Sep 19, 2007
 Reporter: WSAZ NewsChannel 3
Email Address: anna.baxter@wsaz.com; jennifer.cottrill@wsaz.com
284 comments Photos Map
WEB EXTRA: Mother Interview
Original Story: Tortured Woman Found Alive
Tuesday 6pm Mother Speaks Out
WEB EXTRA: 1998 WSAZ Story on Shooting Involving Brewster Family
Wednesday 5 p.m.: No Hate Crimes Being Filed
Wednesday 6 p.m.: Investigation Latest
Raw Video: Family Press Conference Thursday
Thursday 5 p.m.: Pushing for Hate Crime Charges
A Rally for Megan
Focusing on Justice
A | A | A

WEDNESDAY EVENING COVERAGE
Prosecutor Brian Abraham says that the majority of the preliminary hearings will be next week. We will keep you posted.

Megan is now recovering at home.

WEDNESDAY COVERAGE
The prosecutor and judge along plan to sit down today to sort out what will come next in the case. We should know more this afternoon.

TUESDAY EVENING COVERAGE
All six of the defendants in the Logan County tourture case now face kidnapping charges. It's a charge that could land them in prison for life.

Originally, Frankie and Bobby Brewster were the only two facing kidnapping charges.

In court Tuesday Frankie Brewster learned that she now faces a first degree sexual assault charge rather than the orginial charge of second degree sexual assault. The change means if she's convicted she could face more jail time. Also Tuesday the magistrate went ahead with her preliminary hearing. The magistrate ruled there was enough evidence to send her case to the grand jury. The criminal complaint states that Brewster admitted to the crimes it lists.

Also in court Tuesday was Danny Combs. Karen and Alisha Burton, along with George Messer were arraigned via video. Karen Burton had a lot to say during her arraignement. Things like "You aren't going to get me on that." Her daughter Alisha cried the entire time. Danny Combs, George Messer and Frankie Brewster were very quiet. Only talking to their lawyers or the magistrate.

Bobby Brewster was not in court Tuesday because his charges were not changed.

Tuesday's court proceedings revealed that Megan Williams went to Logan County willingly on August 2nd. It's the same day Bobby Brewster got out of jail on other charges. At some point- before her rescue on September 8th- investigators say the six held Williams against her will. During that time it's alleged that Williams went without food or water for four days.

Police say the victim was being held in the shed behind Frankie Brewster's trailer. The back door to the trailer was padlocked. Frankie Brewster allegedly sat on the front porch- even slept there to make sure Megan couldn't get in. Police say the suspects made threats that they would kill Williams if she tried to leave.

New criminal complaints reveal that Williams was hit with a fly swatter and a wooden stick. She was allegedly choked with a phone cord. Hot water and hot wax was poured on her. The complaints also allege she was also forced to bathe in a trash can in the back yard. She also told police that she was beaten while she was sexually assaulted.

TUESDAY MORNING COVERAGE

One of the six suspects charged with torturing a 20-year-old Charleston woman in Logan County was back in court Tuesday.

During a hearing, Tuesday morning, the Prosecutor dropped the charges against Frankie Brewster and then re-filed them. Brewster is now charged with kidnapping, sexual assault, and several misdemeanors including, battery and lying to investigators.

During her preliminary hearing, A magistrate found probable cause and sent Brewster's case to the Grand Jury.

Danny Combs, another suspect charged in the case, is also expected in court Tuesday.

The victim in the case, 20-year-old Megan Williams of Charleston, was allegedly forced to eat animal droppings and drink from the toilet of a home in Big Creek.

Williams' ordeal ended when an anonymous tip led to her September 8th discovery by Logan County sheriff's deputies.

ALSO Tuesday, Williams turned herself into to a magistrate in Kanawha County. Warrants were out for her arrest in Summers, Raleigh, and Greenbrier counties on worthless check charges. She was released on $8,000 bond.


MONDAY COVERAGE
From the Associated Press:

LOGAN, W.Va. (AP) - Additional kidnapping and sexual assault charges are expected to be filed against some of the six people accused in the weeklong torture of a woman in Logan County.

Prosecutor Brian Abraham declined to elaborate on the new charges, except to say they would be filed either Monday or Tuesday.

Four of the defendants were expected to have magistrate court appearances Monday, but only one hearing actually took place. Abraham says the other hearings were pushed back because of questions over which magistrate will hear the cases.

Bobby Brewster appeared in court Monday afternoon. He didn't request a new magistrate, but the judge ruled Brewster will be held without bond.

Abraham says some of the six defendants have also secured new defense attorneys. Those lawyers were meeting with their clients Monday afternoon to make sure there are no conflicts of interest.

The hearings for Frankie Brewster and Danny Combs are still set for Tuesday. Alisha Burton, George Messer, and Karen Burton could also be in court Tuesday.

The victim in the case, 20-year-old Megan Williams of Charleston, was allegedly forced to eat animal droppings and drink from the toilet of a home in Big Creek.

Williams' ordeal ended when an anonymous tip led to her September 8th discovery by Logan County sheriff's deputies.


SUNDAY COVERAGE
From the Associated Press:

CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- The six people charged with torturing a 20-year-old Charleston woman in Logan County are scheduled to appear in court in the next two days.

Four defendants are set for appearances in Logan County Magistrate Court tomorrow , and two others are scheduled for Tuesday court appearances.

Logan County Prosecutor Brian Abraham, though, says there could be delays for some of them.

At least two lawyers for the defendants have recused themselves from the case because they represented one or more of the defendants in the past.

The defendants scheduled to appear tomorrow are Bobby Brewster, George Messer, Alisha Burton and Karen Burton. Frankie Brewster and Danny Combs are scheduled to appear Tuesday.


SATURDAY COVERAGE

Black ministers and civil rights leaders today urged patience for the legal process and prayer for the physical and mental health of a black woman who was allegedly tortured for about a week.

Leaders from the National Association for the Advancement of
Colored People, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and
local groups met at a church in the Logan County community of Cora.

Most of the public's questions centered on the racial aspect of
the case. According to a criminal complaint, Megan Williams was
called a racial slur while she was being abused by at least one of
the six white suspects.

Logan County Prosecutor Brian Abraham has said a hate crime
charge remains an option, but he wants to first pursue charges that
carry stiffer penalties.

State NAACP Director Kenneth Hale asked the black community not
to arbitrarily demand the hate crime charge until the investigation
is complete. But some in the church audience questioned that call.


FRIDAY COVERAGE
Two Logan County Magistrates will no longer work on the Megan Williams torture case.

An attorney for one of the six defendents filed a motion asking the magistrates to step-down because they made comments about the case to the local media.

That prompted Leonard Codispoti to recuse himself from the case. Magistragte Dwight Williamson responded by saying he could be impartial, but a Logan County Judge said he must be removed.

Magistrate Jeffrey Lane will now handle the cases against the six suspects. If more help is needed it can be brought in by a neighboring county.

Meanwhile, community activists in Logan have planned a rally for Saturday. The NAACP is hosting the event at the St. Phillips Baptist Church at 10am. The Church is in Cora. Members of the Logan County Improvement League will also be on hand. Reggie Jones with the league says he wants to work with the NAACP to show all of Logan County that racism will not be tolerated.


THURSDAY COVERAGE
5 p.m.: Pushing for Hate Crime Charges:

We spoke again with the Logan County Prosecutor about the possibility of hate crime charges being filed.

He says that is still a possibility, but that the hate crime charges right now aren't the priority. He says there are so many other stronger charges he's focusing on right now. He adds he respects the family’s opinion but says his office needs to make its own determination.

As for whether or not Megan knew any of these people before. Her parents say they didn't think so but beyond that aren't commenting. They say that has no relevance to what happened to her.

That’s what many are asking about the torture of a woman in Logan County. The U.S. Attorney's Office has said they won't bring federal hate crime charges against the people accused. That is not sitting well with the family of Megan Williams.

They say it couldn't be any clearer and, in fact, they were outraged to think hate crime charges weren't going to be filed. Now while it's true the federal government isn't pursuing those charges, that doesn't’t mean the state won't, but Thursday the parents of Megan Williams along with three local pastors held a press conference at CAMC General.

They say their daughter is making some physical improvements but believe the mental damage will never fully go away and they say everything she's told them only leads to one conclusion.

From the wire...
Representatives of black church groups are calling on prosecutors to reconsider their decision not to pursue the alleged torture of a young woman as a hate crime.

This afternoon, the church groups held a news conference attended by the parents of 20-year-old Charleston resident Megan Williams at Charleston Area Medical Center General Hospital.

The Reverend Emanuel Heyliger of the Ferguson Memorial Baptist Church in Dunbar called Williams' ordeal barbaric, heinous and despicable.

Heyliger says whether or not Williams was known to any one of these perpetrators, that is no reason why this case should not be treated as a hate crime.
Williams' parents attended the news conference but declined to comment on the investigation.

Six people are accused in the sexual assault and beating of Megan Williams. Police say Williams was held captive for at least a week at the Big Creek home of one of the suspects. Williams was forced to eat animal droppings and drink from a toilet.

Logan County sheriff's deputies rescued Williams Saturday.

Crossed the Associated Press Wire at noon
KITCHEN, W.Va. (AP) - A relative of two people charged in a Logan County torture case says they've had a hard life.

Sixty-eight-year-old Carrie Brewster of the Logan County community of Kitchen is the mother of Frankie Brewster and grandmother of Bobby Brewster, but says she hasn't seen either of them for about two years.

Carrie Brewster confirmed that when he was 14, Bobby Brewster was accused of fatally shooting his father, Bisha Tomblin, in 1998. Other than that, the grandmother didn't want to talk about her grandson's or daughter's criminal pasts.

The Brewsters are among six people accused in the sexual assault and beating of 20-year-old Charleston resident Megan Williams. Police say Williams was held captive for at least a week at 49-year-old Frankie Brewster's Big Creek home, where she was forced to eat animal droppings and drink from a toilet.

Logan County sheriff's deputies rescued Williams Saturday.
(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

From WSAZ reports...

Logan County Prosecutor Brian Abraham says that preliminary hearings for the six suspects- set for early next week- could be pushed back. That's because he believes the appointed attorney's might have conflict of interests with the clients. It likely comes as no sup rise. Since 1991 the six suspects have a total of 108 charges against them.

Abraham says that he will meet with the Logan County Sheriff today at the earliest to amend the complaints in this case. He says that they are still actively interviewing suspects.


WEDNESDAY COVERAGE
6 p.m.: Investigation Latest:

At this point, investigators believe that race was a contributing factor to this woman's torture she is black the six suspects are white, but according to the law and the nature of the crime the suspects did not meet the criteria to be charged with a federal hate crime.

The Logan prosecutor will have to decide if he will pursue hate crime charges on the state level. We also learned Wednesday that the victim Megan did know at least one of the suspects.

When deputies found Megan Williams' bruised and battered body inside this Logan County home investigators say it wasn't the first time she had been here.

According to court documents back in July Williams filed domestic battery and assault charges against Bobby Brewster one of the six suspects now charged with her torture.

"Which would lead us to believe she was there in the Logan County area, at least on that date-- Whether she remained here from that time until now is still being investigated," Brian Abraham said.

With Megan in a hospital room and under heavy sedation Tuesday, Carmen Williams spoke for her daughter, saying it wasn't uncommon for Megan to disappear for days at a time, but she never suspected her daughter was in danger.

"I just thought she was running around town like she usually does. I had no idea she was in Logan. Is it common for her to go to Logan,” Carmen Williams said.

Carmen Williams has now learned her daughter went to Logan County with a friend and according to the prosecutor she had some sort of social relationship with Brewster.

"As to whether it was a romantic relationship with these individuals, I can't comment on because we don't have that back for certain yet, but it is pretty clear to us that she was interacting with these people on dates prior to this most recent occurrence, which would negate the fact she was apprehended from some where else in the state and brought back here for this purpose," Abraham said.

If you recall, Williams was found in the Brewster’s home on Saturday when police went there to investigate an anonymous tip.

All six suspects are in jail on a $100,000 bond each. Logan County's prosecutor says there is nothing in the investigation that leads police to believe she was lured to the Brewster’s' home by someone she met over the internet.

The details of the accusations against the six suspects are beyond disturbing, but we can share with you some of the broad aspects of the allegations and the charges the six suspects are facing.

According to the criminal complaints Bobby Brewster raped and stabbed Megan during the time she was held captive in his home.

He also forced her to eat animal feces, lick-up blood, and drink from the toilet. Brewster's mother Frankie forced the 20 year old to perform oral sex and beat her.

Another woman Karen Burton allegedly choked Megan with a cable cord and cut her ankle, while taunting her with a racial slur.

Burton’s daughter Alisha is charged with pulling out Megan's hair and choking her. George Messer is accused of scalding Megan while she was sexually assaulted and Danny Combs is charged with rape and stabbing Megan.

Four of the six suspects will be in court Monday. George Messer, Alisha Burton, Bobby Brewster, Karen Burton all have hearings starting in Logan County.

Frankie Brewster and Danny Combs will be in court on Tuesday. The two hearings will start at 9 that morning.

First at Five: No Hate Drime Charges Being Filed

We found out late Wednesday afternoon that federal hate crime charges will not be filed in this case.

Investigators still believe that race was a contributing factor to this woman's week-long torture. She is black and the six suspects are white, but according to the law and the nature of the crime, the suspects did not meet the criteria to be charged with a federal hate crime.

The Logan prosecutor will have to decide if he will pursue hate crime charges on the state level. Prosecutor Brian Abraham says he's not willing to say it was the motive in this case, but again, he and police do believe it was a factor.

"If that's something we think can be filed once the investigation is complete, something we will consider,” Logan County Prosecutor Brian Abraham said, “Right now, we're focusing on the main part, the meat and potatoes, kidnapping, sexual assault, and malicious assault."

Prosecutor Abraham says kidnapping charges alone can carry a life-time sentence.

Williams is still recovering in the hospital Wednesday night. She is listed in fair condition.


WSAZ Adds Web Extra to Video Section
In 1998, WSAZ reporter Jala Anderson traveled to Big Creek to do a story on the shooting of Bisha Tomblin, the father of Bobby Brewster. Brewster was accused of shooting his father.
Watch that story on the video section of this page.

Crossed the Wire at 2:03 pm Wednesday

Prosecutor: Logan County torture victim knew suspect

LOGAN, W.Va. (AP) - A Charleston woman held captive and tortured in a Logan County home for a week was apparently not a random target.

Logan County Prosecutor Brian Abraham tells The Associated Press that 20-year-old Megan Williams had some sort of prior social relationship to one of the six people accused in her sexual and physical abuse.

Abraham says there is nothing in the investigation thus far to indicate she was lured to the home by someone she met on the Internet -- as authorities were first led to believe. And he also says there is no evidence she was abducted from another point in West Virginia and taken to Logan County against her will.

Twenty-four-year-old Bobby Brewster was arrested July 18th in a domestic dispute involving Williams. Brewster was charged by State Police in that case with domestic battery, domestic assault and providing false information to an officer.

In the latest case, Brewster is charged with kidnapping, sexual assault, malicious wounding and assault during the commission of a felony.

Williams was found, battered and bruised, on Saturday at the Big Creek home of Brewster's mother after deputies went there to investigate an anonymous tip.
(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Posted at Noon Wednesday from WSAZ reporter Amanda Barren

Logan County Prosecutor Brian Abraham says that at this point investigators believe race was a contributing factor in this case of torture. What they are still investigating is whether or not it motivated the six suspects.

Abraham says that Tuesday night he met with an assistant from the US Attorney's office, the FBI and local law enforcement. We should know more later today about the role the Federal Governement is playing in this case.

6 defendants in torture case all have criminal pasts

BIG CREEK, W.Va. (AP) - The six people arrested for allegedly torturing a woman for days at a Logan County home are all familiar to law enforcement.

Since 1991, they have faced a total of 108 criminal charges.

The most serious of those charges involved 49-year-old Frankie Brewster, the owner of the Big Creek mobile home where the alleged abuse occurred. She was charged in 1994 with first-degree murder, but pleaded guilty to lesser charges of voluntary manslaughter and wanton endangerment. Brewster was released from prison in 2000 after serving five years.

Brewster, her 24-year-old son Bobby Brewster, and four others are now facing charges in the alleged kidnapping, sexual assault and beating of 20-year-old Megan Williams of Charleston.

Among the other alleged abuses, Williams was forced to eat dog and rat feces, made to drink from the toilet, doused with hot water and had her hair pulled out and cut.

She was found Saturday by Logan County sheriff's deputies investigating an anonymous tip.

Authorities are also looking to see if hate crimes charges are warranted.

At least one of the six defendants, all of whom are white, allegedly referred to the victim, who is black, with a racial slur.
(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Community stunned by alleged abduction, torture of woman

BIG CREEK, W.Va. (AP) - Newborn pups sleep in the entryway to a small shed on a remote hillside in Logan County, their mother protectively barking at approaching strangers.

A few days earlier, the shed allegedly served a different purpose -- a part-time torture chamber for a young woman.

Authorities are investigating Megan Williams' weeklong captivity as a possible hate crime that one officer described as straight out of a horror movie. The 20-year-old Charleston woman is black and the six defendants charged in the case are white.

Williams was allegedly forced to eat rat and dog feces and drink from the toilet of a nearby mobile home. Criminal complaints say she was doused with hot water, choked with a cable cord, stabbed in the leg, and had her hair cut and pulled.

While residents who live near the Big Creek residence where the abuse allegedly occurred have expressed shock, the suspects have been known in some circles for their long arrest records. Since 1991, police have filed a total of 108 criminal charges against the six defendants.

Two others suspected of driving the woman to the home are being sought.
(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


TUESDAY

Tuesday, the mother of a woman, only twenty, who suffered both physical and emotional abuse and was held captive for at least a week, spoke out to the news media.
Carmen Williams told reporters she wanted people to know about this kind of abuse.

"I don't understand how anyone could go through the lengths they did, you know, things they done to my daughter," Carmen Williams said.

Williams says what happened to her daughter is an act of hate that's hard to understand.

"You never thought it could happen to your child. But obviously, I never thought.. that.. But here we are," Williams said.

In her hospital room, Megan is slowly recovering from the physical pain. There are scars around her neck where police say she was choked. Her arm is fractured in three places.

There are patches on her heard where her hair was cut out. But she may never heal from the emotional toll.
Police say she was repeatedly raped, forced to eat animal feces, drink blood and toilet water.
And the words hurt too. Investigators say during the torture, the suspects taunted Megan with racial slurs.
Carmen Williams says her daughter is living through a nightmare.

"She wakes up crying. The first thing she hollers is, "Mommy". She wants to make sure I'm here. As long as I'm here, I think she's pretty much OK. Now that she knows the people are in jail. She's been more relieved," Carmen Williams said.

Associated Press Story Tuesday

The mother of a Charleston woman who was held captive, beaten and sexually assaulted says her daughter will be scarred for a long time.

Carmen Williams says that family members are angry. She says they've been praying and asking God to help them through the ordeal. Carmen says it's important to tell her daughter's story to make sure this never happens again.

Police say the 23-year-old victim, Megan Williams, was held captive for at least a week at a Logan County home.

The FBI is investigating the case as a possible hate crime. The victim is black and all six defendants are white.

Police say Megan was sexually assaulted, stabbed in the left leg and beaten. She also was allegedly forced to eat rat and dog feces.

Logan County sheriff's deputies investigating an anonymous tip discovered Megan Saturday at the Big Creek home of 49-year-old Frankie Brewster.

Brewster and her son, 24-year-old Bobby Brewster, also of Big Creek, are charged in the case. The other defendants are 46-year-old Karen Burton; Burton's 23-year-old daughter Alisha Burton and 27-year-old George Messer; all of Chapmanville; and 20-year-old Danny Combs of Harts.

Local and federal officials plan to meet Tuesday evening to decide whether to file hate crime charges against the six people accused.


MONDAY COVERAGE
6 charged in Charleston woman's weeklong torture

LOGAN, W.Va. (AP) - The FBI will investigate whether the alleged torture of a Charleston woman held captive in a Logan County home for at least a week was a hate crime.

Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Jay Bartholomew says the Logan County Sheriff's Department asked the FBI to look into the incident.

The 23-year-old victim, who is black, is being treated at an undisclosed hospital.

All six defendants are white.

Logan County sheriff's Sergeant Sonya Porter says the woman was sexually assaulted, stabbed in the left leg and beaten.

The criminal complaint says the woman was forced to eat rat and dog feces and drink from the toilet. One defendant also allegedly referred to her with a racial slur.

Deputies investigating an anonymous tip discovered the woman Saturday at the Big Creek home of 49-year-old Frankie Brewster.

Brewster and her son, 24-year-old Bobby Brewster, also of Big Creek, are charged in the case. The other defendants are 46-year-old Karen Burton; Burton's 23-year-old daughter Alisha Burton and 27-year-old George Messer; all of Chapmanville; and 20-year-old Danny Combs of Harts.
(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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Posted by: noneofyourbusiness on Mar 14, 2008 at 04:10 AM
Deano, you seem awfully proud of the fact you're studying criminal justice...that's about as prestigious as marketing or journalism in my book. The last thing we need is another angry cop with a chip on his shoulder. I hope that's not the road you're headed down The victim in this case is no angel, but she is the victim of a savage crime. As for her knowing them or being romantically linked, so the f what? A majority of crimes are committed against people you know or are close to. Her captors and abusers are troglodytes who should have been in prison already. I hope black people realize not all white people secretly resent them...I hope not all black people secretly resent white people as well, because racism is a two way street
Posted by: taasha on Feb 7, 2008 at 03:56 PM
The crime that megan was subjected to is horrific in many ways and I just want to send my love and support to her and her family. Megan you are absolutly amazing in your efforts of true recovery. I know that YOU will make a full recovery and your family will as well. I am only One of thousands that this horrible torture you have endured has touched and I admire your strength. I hope that more women will be able to come forward after you have. YOU MAKE A DIFFEENCE!! Please trust me when I say YOU HAVE TOUCHED ME. I will pray for you and your family. I hope that you will get a chance to read this, as I donot have any other way to get you my message of love and concern. GOOD LUCK MEGAN! sincerly Taasha Taylor
Posted by: Pam on Nov 8, 2007 at 06:03 PM
I could not believe this happen, it's so unreal to know there are people like this. When I heard about this my mouth hit the floor. It sounded like the Texas Chain Saw Massacre, are they related or what? How can another person take their mind and thoughts to this level in order to carried out such a horrid crime is truly unbelievable. I am a black woman and it's scary. I don't care what color your skin mat be, it's wrong to hate. When I saw these people pictures, they look like a dysfunctional family. They appeared to be angry, hateful and resentful, mad at the world for what ever wrong they feel was done to them. I don't know sometimes about the world we live in or the people we see everyday. I just recently heard about this. There wasn't a lot of media coverage, that's shameful. I just hope for the best for the victim and may God have mercy on the sould of the ones who committed this hateful, hateful, hateful crime.
Posted by: Coy on Nov 4, 2007 at 03:22 PM
I think it is a shame for anyone to be raped and tortured regardless of their race. What really bothers me and alot of others is the media and the government making it a national circus. If the roles had been reversed, and the victim had been white, it would have been lucky to have made the last page of the newspaper and maybe a 30sec spot on the news broadcast. I have come to believe that Hate Crime Laws are only for the blacks and other minorities. What about the everyday occurance of black on white crimes that happen all across the country??? The media makes the white race out to be barbarians and the enemy when a black person happens to be the victim, but when a white person is the victim,the media seems to keep real quite about those crimes.Why is that??? Can you answer that question??? Oh, you have nothing to say to that question??? Can you guess how many blacks have said racial slurs to whites as they killed and tortured them?Probably yes, but you keep that quite to the public!!!
Posted by: "Tina" on Nov 2, 2007 at 03:10 PM
This has to be stopped immediately! The sternest punishment is called for. No type of prejudice or hate crime should be tolerated in any way. This is a filthy, disgusting crime and they have scarred this girl and her family, both physically and emtionally for the rest of their lives. People like this are nothing more than filthy, trash! Lastly, look at their photos...how can they look in the mirror and think they are above ANYONE simply because their skin is white? Trash...and a menace to society!
Posted by: Techcowboy on Nov 1, 2007 at 03:50 PM
This is horrible. It is also reality 101. What about similar atrocities happening that haven't come to light yet. There are dark dangerous people out there. I do all I can to protect and prepare my children to be alert and aware.
Posted by: Caroline on Oct 2, 2007 at 01:18 AM
WHY HAS THIS BEEN BURIED? WHY HASN'T IT MADE NATIONAL NEWS?????? I HAD TO SEARCH ON THE NET JUST TO FIND IT!!!!!jENA 6 AND NOW THIS! THIS IS A STAIN ON AMERICA YET AGAIN BETTER YET ON HUMANITY!!!!! MAY GOD HEAL THAT YOUNG WOMAN, MEAGAN, AND ERASE THE HORRIFIC MEMORY OF THE ATTROCITES DONE TO HER!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 29, 2007 at 04:00 PM
Your court system is awful.Those people should have what was done to megan done to them. I hope and pray that your court system steps up like they should and charge of all those sick people with every charge possible. We have enough hate is this world . If this happened to the prosecutor family you bet your ass he would file hate crime charges agaisnt them. They would never is the out world again. I wish you could have the charges brought here to florida. Meagan hang in there girl keep your head up and be strong.
Posted by: Lenora,Young,Ziobro on Sep 26, 2007 at 02:22 AM
This doesn't only happen to African_American people.It happened to me about 20 years ago,Of course,back then ,charges weren't pressed against husbands.It wasn't considered rape,and you were considered your husbands property to do with as he pleased in Texas.Even trading for sexual favors.And for the people that say that it will take a long time to heal.You never get over the pain & suffering of this horrendous degradation.My heart goes out to Meagan,God Bless You!Lenora
Posted by: LORI on Sep 25, 2007 at 12:45 PM
OK "FED-UP". YOU ARE JUST THE KIND OF PERSON THAT SOME PEOPLE LEAVING COMMENTS ABOUT. I DON'T CARE IF IT HAPPENED 20 YEARS AGO! YOU SAY YOU'RE "TIRED OF IT" LET'S MOVE ON.......YOU HAVE ISSUES THAT COUNSELING MAY HELP. IF THIS HAPPENED TO YOU OR SOMEONE CLOSE TO YOU, YOU WOULD BE A LOT MORE UNDERSTANDING! GET USED TO THE CAMERAS BABY IT'S JUST BEGUN. I WOULDN'T COME TO YOUR COUNTY UNLESS THE LORD SENT ME THERE. AS WRONG AS I MAY BE. YOU OUGHT TO BE ASHAMED OF YOUR TOWN BEING IN THE SPOTLIGHT OVER THIS. GROW UP, GET SAVED, AND READ THE BIBLE, IT WILL HELP "YOU" UNDERSTAND WHAT THE WORK "LOVE" MEANS
Posted by: Khalil Abdul Aziz on Sep 24, 2007 at 02:38 PM
This should be a top story on every station World Wide. This makes Jena 6 look like a Nursery Rhyme. UNBELIEVABLE!!!!
Posted by: Dray on Sep 21, 2007 at 12:41 PM
My heart goes out to Meagan and her family. I just pray that folks will be mindful that the Lord our God is still in control and that one day very soon we will all face a day of judgement. I pray that Megan will allow the Lord to use this tragedy in her life to minister to young women all around the world that have been abused. To God be the Golry, if Megan lets this destroy her, then the 6 people along with the filthy devil controling them has won, but if she presses on and stands for Jesus - she will overcome! This too shall pass dear Megan and one day soon you will find peace. To let ourselves be burdened down with hate is to become like the people who did this to her. The best thing we can offer Megan is prayer and encouragement. This too shall pass.
Posted by: unknown on Sep 21, 2007 at 06:11 AM
FIRST OF ALL WE ALL NEED TO PRAY FOR OUR COUNTY AND COUNTRY I HAVE BEEN FOLLOWING THE WHOLE INVESTIGATION AND I WILL ONLY SAY THAT THE DEPUTIES AND WHOLE LEGAL TEAM ARE DOING A GREAT JOB THEY ARE MAD AND WANT JUSTICE I HAVE BEEN AROUND THE SYSTEM FOR MANY YEARS AND NAVE HAVE SEEN THESE GUYS WORKING SO HARD TO MAKE SURE THERE ARTE NO MISTAKES MADE SO THESE PEOPLE FOR LACK OF A BETTER WORD GO FREE THIS IS MORE THAN RACIAL THESE PEOPLE ARE PURE DEVILISH NO HUMAN DESERVES TO BE TREATED LIKE THIS NO ONE WHITE BLACK PINK OR BLUE STOP MAKING THIS A BLACK AND WHITE ISSUE AND MAKE IT A HUMAN ISSUE LET'S ALL GET PAST THE RACIAL BARRIERS AND DO THE RIGHT THINGS FOR ALL I LOVE LOGAN AND DON'T WANT TO SEE US SLANDERED ANYMORE THEN WE ARE NOW THERE ARE SOME GOOD BLACK AND WHITE FOLKS HERE WE GET ALONG PRETTY WELL AND I WANT IT TO CONTINUE MAY GOD BLESS US ALL AND I PRAY FOR PEACE
Posted by: AMANDA on Sep 20, 2007 at 07:04 PM
THIS IS A SHAME,,,, I WAS RAISED HERE IN LOGAN WV.AND 2 THINK THIS HAPPENED HERE, WHERE WAS THE JUSTICE WHEN, THESE PEOPLE KILLED THERE MOTHER AND LAW, AND OWN FATHER,,, Y WERE THEY OUTTA JAIL 2 BEGIN WITH? I JUST READ THIS GIRLS STATEMENTS,,THIS IS IN HUMANE,, WHEN THEY CALLED HER NAMES, I AGREE IT IS RACIAL,, {IM WHITE} WHAT HAS HAPPENED 2 LOGAN? AND THE SO CALLED PEOPLE HERE?
Posted by: Pickle on Sep 20, 2007 at 06:06 PM
I have read some of the 267 comments on here about this and just want to share that I am not surprised by people any longer. Almost three weeks ago my cousin died at a local jail and everyone seemed to have an opinion. I didn't realize how cruel people could be. Now I know. So to the family of the victim who is reading this. Put your faith in God and know that there are people out there who are always going to try to find your faults and say mean things. And whether or not Justice is served here on earth, they will have to be reponsible someday for the things that have happened and the pain they have caused. I am so sorry for the pain you are feeling and will pray for your family.
Posted by: J. Armstrong on Sep 20, 2007 at 01:40 PM
Walk in this girl's shoes and her family's shoes, then pass judgment. You should be ashamed to post some of the nonsense I have read so far! Nobody deserves anything like this to happen to them and what does writing bad checks have to do with being tortured and raped. The same people who are being insensitive to all of this are the same people who would feel victimized if this type of thing happened to them. People wake up and STAND UP no matter what color you are, GOD created everyone, no matter the color in his own image, she deserves JUSTICE!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 20, 2007 at 01:03 AM
For all you racist people writing these comments you should be ashamed of yourselves. I am a white woman and if 6 white peopleomething like that to me i would probably hate my own race too, no matter what color I am. No one deserves this kind of torture. Think about yourself being in that situation, then write a hate message on here. Right now, I feel ashamed of being white because of the people who did this and you people writing your racist messages on here. If she would have been white then you would have never wrote your rude comments. No one deserves this kind of beaten and my heart goes out to her whether shes innocent or not. Megan hang in there sweet heart your in my prayers and hope you get better. You've been through a lot and I hope your strong enough to get through this mentally. I've been through something similar but definitely not what you've been through. If there is anything I could do for you I would do it in a heart beat.
Posted by: Pam on Sep 20, 2007 at 12:24 AM
Lets focus on megans feelings...It is so sad that people can be so cruel..I give all my apolgies and sympathy to megan and all family and freinds...keep them all in our prayers ...I hope you all of you feel better soon especially you megan may God bless you sweetie!!!! Love Pam and my family!!!
Posted by: Concerned African American Woman on Sep 19, 2007 at 07:35 PM
I find it hard to believe that Megan endured this hurt, pain, and suffering. While I think about what's happening in Jena, LA, I feel for Ms. Willims. I can't imagine the trama this torture will do to her life. I am thrilled that her kidnappers are in jail and I hope and pray that God forgives them on judgment day.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 19, 2007 at 05:31 PM
*thats really sad i dont see how somebody could be so sick and do somebody like that. they should take every crime out on them and put them in the death penalty..thats just so cruel for someone to do that it makes me want to throw it looking at them people who done that..they dont never need to be let out..but all my prayers goes out to Megan Williams and her family*God Bless*
Posted by: Kellie on Sep 19, 2007 at 12:04 PM
I think they should take all the nasty comments that folks have wrote on here. This isn't about what I think/You think. It's about a young girl in our state who was mistreated, abused, assaulted. Lets focus on making sure she is doing well and recovering.
Posted by: rhonda on Sep 19, 2007 at 09:40 AM
Does anyone know how Megan is doing? Has she been released from the hospital? Is she able to get the psychological help that she is going to need? I've read every article I can find, and no mention of how she is...
Posted by: anothermom on Sep 19, 2007 at 09:27 AM
It never ceases to amaze me the horrbile things people do to one another, including verbally and physically. Yes this is indeed a horrible crime, no one should have to suffer this way. However sad in our world it happens. I know there are good people in Logan and sadly there are bad people also. Just look at how people are attacked here in this forum for voicing opinions. The "educated" people can get no further than attacking someone's spelling or for rhonda their being "backwards" With education we dont always get intelligence, intelligent people dont attack one another , physically or verbally. For those who are ashamed, what do YOU do in your life to make a difference? Sad truth not everyone is a productive member of society. Those who live by the sword sometimes die by it also. This is nothing new. Yes our justice system seems to be failing, I remember when you used to be considered innocent until proven guilty. At some point, we have to take responsibilty for our own actions.
Posted by: mike on Sep 19, 2007 at 07:56 AM
to everyone that is talking about a hate crime i think that is bs. and i heard someone say if that was a white man and six black men doing that it would be a hate crime thats bs also how about the young man that was from sissonville that got stabbed to death in that parking garage in charleston because he wouldnt give three black guys his money. i dont remember anyone taling about hate crimes with that so i think the african americans have gotten by with alot more over the years and every time it dont go their way they want to try and play the hate card.
Posted by: William t. Maynard, jr. on Sep 19, 2007 at 07:15 AM
This type of crime should not happen to any one. What a (scar) this lady will carry the rest of her life. Even i can say that i have not got over mine. I as sixty eight yrs old and yet carry this scar. God bless you ms.williams. Those that did this to you need the event reversed and see how they could deal with what has happened to you. I can say it would be a different situation. I can say that justice will prevail here. and I hope they all get the max. people like them need to be put away from the public.one again god bless and keep you.
Posted by: deano on Sep 19, 2007 at 03:43 AM
Amazed, thank you, I am very well educated and I actually know what I'm talking about. Do you? African Americans have cried help since the slavery days, and where does it end. Do you turn on the tv and see whites, latinas, and indians; on the news, everytime a crime is committed against them by a member of a different race. The answer is no! Blacks screamed for equality, they got it and more. The majority of the prison population in the country is African American, the majority of people arrested are African American, and the majority of low income housing are African American. I say its time for the white man to stand up and scream equality. Megan has a history of being romantically involved with one of the defendants. How can you claim a "hate crime" in that scenario? I will debate any member of the NAACP, on the steps of the logan courthouse, if they will accept. In my opinion, the NAACP are cowards and they don't want to be made a fool of, by a college student.
Posted by: Michelle on Sep 19, 2007 at 12:45 AM
My heart goes out to the girl that this horrible thing happened to. I have a daughter of my own and could not imagine her having to go through something like this. I don't think I could handle knowing that something like that had happened to her. I would want justice..but I know that the prosecutor here in Logan will do everything he can to bring justice to these people for what they have done. My prayers go out to Megan and her family. I have faith that God will bring restoration to her. God bless you and I pray for a fast recovery to you.
Posted by: S-n-B on Sep 19, 2007 at 12:45 AM
What does it matter what she did before?!?!?!?!?!? NOONE deserves what this girl was put through. To fed up, should every person who has written a bad check be submitted to the torture this girl endured for days on end???? Get a grip, dude....
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 18, 2007 at 11:51 PM
Well this is Logan County as people say here, Its not what you know or anything its who you know or pay off in court it has happen here before and will always be like this, and all 3 magistrates are doing there job, But like i said before its who u know not what you know here in Logan County.
Posted by: Amanda on Sep 18, 2007 at 10:55 PM
I think that this is digusting and very very sad. I wish all of the best to Megan in recovery and the best to her family. I think that these 6 people need to spend the rest of their lives behind bars.
Posted by: fed up on Sep 18, 2007 at 10:49 PM
When is the going be over with some of the logan county people are getting sick about this now,And now that Megan is in trouble with the law of writing bad checks, she seems not so precious now does she!! The parents needs to keep up with their child,Its all i see now on tv is about Megan, and u go to logan u see news media people there, please post this it goes on al over the world and life goes on, The only time logan makes the news is when something bad happen they dont get on the news when somehting good happens here,
Posted by: saddened on Sep 18, 2007 at 09:10 PM
i was just reading all the comments about and i would like to know why people think they are so much better than west virginia people ive been around and there is bad every where if you would take west virginia people out of the work places in other states there wouldnt be to many left ..every where ive gone to work out of state will hire someone from west virginia before they will hire from their own state...that says a lot about west virginia people..if you watch the news in other states you hear about the same thing you have drugs every where and from what i hear and read(and yes i do read) a lot of the drugs that are in our state come from people in other states...i think our law officers do a great job keeping up with the crimals..so please if you are going to put this state down check out your own back door first im sure you can find some bad news to talk about..if you was from wv and you moved away and you are ashamed of wv please do us all a favor and dont tell anybody youre f.
Posted by: lilly on Sep 18, 2007 at 08:31 PM
i think it should be an eye for an eye as the saying goes..they should be done the same way in their own home ..let whoever wants to go take a swing at them see how long they can take it.....i really feel for that poor girl this will be a life time thing for her not just a thing for the momet......
Posted by: candy lynn on Sep 18, 2007 at 08:23 PM
it dont matter if she went there on her own or not any one can look at her se some thing is wrong with her an no one ever need to be put though the living hell they put her though it is sad and sick my heart goes out to her and i pray she gets better and i pray they all get whats coming to them there is no dam exscuse in this world what they put her though
Posted by: Homer E. Fields on Sep 18, 2007 at 04:22 PM
This is a hate crime and should be proscuted as such
Posted by: Charles Elder on Sep 18, 2007 at 01:46 PM
First my prayers to Meagn, My church and my family is praying for your recovery. I would hope that the prosecuting attorneys also look at the ending fact that "what were the perpetrators intentions after they had finished torturing Ms. Williams" were they going to let her go I don't think so. Their full intention was to finally kill her. The charges on all of the individuals involved with this horrible act should serve life sentences without parole. Again I hope that the prosecuting attorneys address the fact that the individuals whom attacked Megan had a more evil plan on their agenda. My prayers to Megan and her family.
Posted by: Amazed on Sep 18, 2007 at 01:33 PM
Deano, I'm sure that you are extremely well-educated and I'm sure that we would all appreciate you presenting to us the elements necessary for it to be considered a "hate crime". But the notion that the term should be abolished entirely is absolutely comical. The term exists because there will never be equality in the country and because of that people choose to commit crimes against someone because of their race, sexual orientation, nationality, etc. If that white male was a victim simply because he was a white male, then those criminals should also be charged with hate crimes. I would love to see our nation move towards equality, but I'm not sure how removing laws against hate crimes will help to accomplish that.
Posted by: Maxine on Sep 18, 2007 at 01:22 PM
People, the hate crime charge carries a max of 10 years in prison and a $5000 fine? If you charge them with the other charges, you could get 3-4 times that many years or maybe even life. Do we not want these people to be away for as long as possible? You know something else that has always bothered me. If you were a victim in a horrible crime like this, would you not want your identity protected? Would you want your mother to be interviewed with you lying in a hospital bed beside her? This woman's mother seems a little camera happy for me; it was almost like she couldn't wait to get on TV. She wanted her 15 minutes of fame and go it. And the worst part, look at this woman lying in the bed, does she look comfortable to you. Something else that I don't understand, in you had a domestic violence charge against somebody, why would you willingly go to this person. She should have not went through what she did but I'm still curious as to why she would be willing to go see this guy.
Posted by: Staples on Sep 18, 2007 at 08:26 AM
I can't wait to move out of this state!! The law enforcement doesn't care about anything but $$$$. I agree with everyone posting about the TN couple and the Milton man. Doesn't matter if your black, white, gay, straight, green. This should have never happened. How hard is it, when they admitted to the crime. Lock them up for life!
Posted by: rhonda on Sep 18, 2007 at 04:21 AM
I hate to break it to everyone, but I've lived here my whole life and I can say that WV IS totally backwards. If you don't know someone, you can have anything done to you. It doesn't matter if you have witnesses. By the way I'm white and I think if charging them with a hate crime makes their sentence worse, then it should be a hate crime. Maybe if these sick people would have actually been punished the first hundred times, this wouldn't have happened. I don't care if they were her BEST FRIENDS, it DOES NOT MATTER!!! You don't do that to a person. I can only wish I could be in charge of punishing these people. To Richard, it's hard to lie about stab wounds, burns and choke marks. Think before you "git on the internets" This has no similarities to OJ, other than the fact that both of them are black. SEE how backwards some people are in my home state.
Posted by: Deano on Sep 18, 2007 at 03:25 AM
First, I want to start out by saying that this crime was brutal and unfortunate, however I don't believe that it was a hate crime. I was born and raised in Logan, WV.. I now attend Marshall University, where I am studying criminal justice. Do you know what a hate crime is? Do you know what elements must be present to be charged with a hate crime? For all of you that are screaming "hate crime" I urge you to do research and know what you are talking about before you open your mouth. For instance, when a white male, is the victim of a car jacking,and the suspects are black, do we see white people on the news screaming "hate crime"? I think,we as a nation,should abolish the term "hate crime" and move toward equality. Citizens of this nation are never going to be of the same race or origin, we need to accept that and see people beyond color of skin. The stigma that this incident is going to leave behind will last forever, but discrimination doesn't have too. Justice is most important.
Posted by: For INNOCENT VICTIMS on Sep 17, 2007 at 11:10 PM
NO INNOCENT HUMAN BEING deserves to be beat,and done this way.People should get life,that do this.I also think they need an organization nation wide to step in and get involved including the FBI to help Every Innocent Victim of Violent Crimes,some of this people of Violent Crimes dies,or have total loss of mobility,in comas with brain injuries,loss of limbs,blinded,etc,from being beat,tortured and more,they are someones family members.Children,Teens,& Adults. Life As They Knew It Is Changed Forever! Some Police overlook a lot of these Violent Crimes,which is UNFAIR TO THE VICTIMS.This young woman is Very Lucky that the SHERIFFS DEPT.took action and was cared enough to do something about it! They Deserve RESPECT from the people of WV.,The Governor should Thank the Sheriff's of WV.and should do more to get better HEALTH CARE for INNOCENT VICTIMS OF CRIMES,These Victims did not want to die or be injured,and they should Never be Forgotten or recieve LOW HEALTH CARE for Any Reason!!!
Posted by: Richard on Sep 17, 2007 at 07:40 PM
lets slow down and see if she is even telling the truth!!!!!!before you all start a race war.dot turn this in to another oj,thing.with the threat of violence over riding are law system.
Posted by: I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS on Sep 17, 2007 at 06:24 PM
HOW CAN YOU PEOPLE SAY SHE DESERVES BEING RAPED AND TORTURED??? I DON'T CARE IF SHE KNEW THIS MAN FOR 20 YEARS NOBODY DESERVES TO BE TORTURED. THE REASON THE NAACP IS GETTING INVOLVED IS B/C OF PEOPLE LIKE YOU. IF THEY DON'T HELP WHO WILL? PEOPLE WHO ADVOCATE WHAT THESE PEOPLE DID OR MAKE EXCUSES FOR THEM ARE JUST AS BAD. SHAME ON YOU.
Posted by: Daisy on Sep 17, 2007 at 05:23 PM
Also did anyone else notice that a few of these idiots that did that to Megan look like they were beaten? Karen Burton looks like she has a broken nose & a the Brewster guy looks like he has black eyes. Either Megan did it trying to fight them off or the police got them.
Posted by: bo on Sep 17, 2007 at 03:41 PM
I think that is the wrost thing on Earth.I think that they could have life in prsion.Like people say if you can't do the crime you have to pay the time.If they where told to go to church when they was little that probably would not have happen in life.
Posted by: samantha on Sep 17, 2007 at 02:16 PM
i agree that this crime is one of the sickest,but lets get real here ,the naacp is not here to make sure the investigation goes right they are here to bully the investigation to go their way ...
Posted by: J on Sep 17, 2007 at 01:20 PM
I too am sick of hearing about this...yes it was an awful thing to happen to the girl, but why was she even with these people knowing their background and especially after she had a domestic violence order against one of the suspects. It is amazing to me how that some are wanting hate crime charges against these people! It was clearly not a hate crime towards blacks, but yes they hated her obviously. What is up with Megan's mother? Why would you not be concerned about your daughter if you hadn't heard from her in a week or more. There are so many things that are being left out I would assume. I think in a way the Williams family is doing all this just to get attention and to get their medical bills paid by someone other than themselves, but it's hard to feel sorry for someone who messes with people and puts themselves in a situation that they know is not good or potentially unsafe for them!
Posted by: Shame on Spradling on Sep 17, 2007 at 10:43 AM
I saw your report and could not believe that Joe Spradling has shamelessly interjected himself into Megan's plight!!! I can only hope that the NAACP and other groups see through an opportunist such as Joe Spradling. He should be ashamed of himself for trying to turn this into a political rally for his own campaign to be prosecutor! He was FIRED as a public defender for repeated insubordination and allegedly lying in open court. "Let em' go" Joe Spadling has fought harder to see some of Logan County's worst criminals get back on the street! I think the voters of Logan will see through Joe's blatent attempt to use a tragedy like this for his own political gain. You may fool some reporters at the Logan Banner but we know who you really are. You are no better than President Bush for lying to us and using 9/11 to help your own agenda and political cronies!SHAME ON YOU JOE SPRADLING. THE VOTERS WILL NOT FORGET THIS!!!
Posted by: Dave on Sep 17, 2007 at 09:15 AM
I must say... These six people are a very pretty lot aren't they? Just by looking at them, I wouldn't trust them to babysit a pet rock. I hope that hate crimes aren't files, so they will get a bigger punishment then the max 10 years.
Posted by: Amazed on Sep 17, 2007 at 08:48 AM
This one is just for the ignorance that was written by the one who goes by "women". Where on earth would you get the idea that because they dated that this couldn't possibly be a hate crime? You do some research and learn that the term "hate crime" doesn't mean that you hate the person. It means that a crime was committed against a person with their race, sexuality, nationality, etc. being a factor in the crime. If they really used the words that they were accused of, then whether they dated or not it is a hate crime. As far as why the NAACP "comes running" every time a black person has a problem, that is what it is designed to do. That is the very reason why it was created. Because not that long ago, blacks in this country had no voice that could speak up for them and sadly today in a lot of places, WV included, they still don't. That's why the NAACP is involved. YOU DO YOUR RESEARCH...
Posted by: Fed Up on Sep 16, 2007 at 10:39 PM
Yea we do feel sorry for the girl and the family, But it has happend over a week ago and its still talk of Logan, And some of the ciztien of Logan are sick and tried of this crazy stuff, Everytime you go to downtown Logan, its the talk or you will see the media people there, And today they was a coalminer killed in Logan County, Why isnt it getting alot of media attention, They was man lost his life of working its just all crazy. thank you!! Logan County
Posted by: debbie on Sep 16, 2007 at 07:35 PM
everyone needs to read comments that alisha wrote, your taking one womans word , and yes her mom has lied on tv several times, theres always more than one side, megan dated this guy on and off for a few years, she has been on the streets ,and you know what this means, yes those people do have bad past, but you don,t keep going back for more, this is all about playing the race card, wake up people, make megan and her mom take lie dector test, and for the record i am black
Posted by: the man on Sep 16, 2007 at 07:09 PM
why is it that it is a race issue when it is a black person that gets hurt or victimized? Never do you see church groupsor organizations rioting or holding rallys for any other race
Posted by: Cindy on Sep 16, 2007 at 02:03 PM
Does it make it better to rape a person while calling them "honey" or "sweetheart"? The names used are not important but the crimes that are done. No rape is done in love so when you label certain crimes as Hate Crimes you make it sound like if they were of your race it wasn't as bad. All rape and kidnapping is bad. Evil is evil no matter what race it comes from. So until you can show me a "love crime" I will consider every crime a "hate crime"
Posted by: Lauryn Yee on Sep 16, 2007 at 01:43 PM
They better move this case out of Logan County W.va. if they want a sucessful prosecution of these 6 monsters. Too much underhanded political crap goes on in local cases-and the entire WORLD has got their eyes on little Logan County to see that JUSTICE is done for Megan.
Posted by: Spencer on Sep 16, 2007 at 10:01 AM
Two question concerning the six defendants in this UNSPEAKABLE crime: #1 - Will they still receive their PUBLIC ASSISTANCES checks, etc. while in jail awaiting trial? (I know they will have a public defender!) #2 - Will the WV court system at least TRY to get justice for Megan? May God bless Megan and her family. My prayers are with them.
Posted by: Tanya on Sep 16, 2007 at 12:22 AM
My heart and soul go out to Megan and can only say how strong she is to have survived such an evil crime. We question why things like this happen in the world and can't imagine how much evil a human can have inside. Remember to cherish your children and family and to instill morales, love and kindness into them.I am a single mother of a 7 year old son and everyday we talk about loving people for who they are and not judging people.Who are we to judge anyone. My first reaction to this was kill them all but then it is in God's hands. I asked myself how could God let this happen and then thought he was with her the whole time making her strong enough to get through this horrible crime. Never lose hope Megan you will be inspiration to many. May God bless you and your family...Love a mother and son..
Posted by: Emma on Sep 15, 2007 at 10:04 PM
This is to the response from "Tammy" that used to live in C'ville with her daughter and now is living in Charleston. She goes on to say how embarassed she is to say she lived in C'ville because of the drugs, racials problems,etc.. Tammy, do you think the great city of Charleston is any better of? What about the constant drive by shootings on the West Side, not to mention their drug problems there. Also, the Charleston Town Center parking building is like taking your life in your hands anytime a female parks there to go to the mall. I hope you are getting the point if you are able. All towns have bad areas and people, not just C'ville. Every state has this issue and it is not a new thing. Think, if you can, before you make ignorant statements like this again.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 15, 2007 at 02:52 PM
There is not one soul on earth that should have to go through such torture, no matter if they are white, black, red, green, yellow, bald or hairy.....or whatever other group people in our world like to stick people. These crack heads (which is obivious by looking at their pics)need to be punished in the worst way, if the law lets them through, God's punishment will be far worse than anything we could imagine.I vote for Gods punishment!!
Posted by: kim on Sep 15, 2007 at 10:25 AM
the 6 should be punished to the fullest.if there were orders from a past incident to stay away why did this even happen? often times the courts are abused by people who are scared and then as soon as the scared person has the court orders then they will purposely go around and try to get the person they are "scared of" in trouble i realize this is far worse that that but people need to realize if your are scared dont go around person why was the lady in big creek instead of charleston anyway none of these statements makes what was done to her right but these things do need to be looked into i wonder if there is more to come out about the situation still NO MATTER the 6 MUST finally be punished
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 15, 2007 at 09:20 AM
this is sick but all wv ppl are not like this.i hate to see ppl get hurt like this the world is going crazy to much drugs.so i hope god keeps looking over the good ppl in the world and he will look over you megan so stay strong.the ppl that did this to you will get what is coming to them if not in the court room but when the lord does his judging.but remember all wv ppl are not like this.the lord will help you so we will pray for you and your mom.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 15, 2007 at 09:16 AM
I to feel so sorry for meagan . those ppl did an unthinkable act. you would have to have ice running through your veins to be so evil. my prayers are for her family. when you hear of such inhumane things like this happening to ppl no matter what race it is just digusting and makes me ill..
Posted by: Sad on Sep 15, 2007 at 08:31 AM
It was reported that since 1991 there has been 108 criminal charges against these demons. There should be no plea deals this time. Megan, my family and I pray for your recovery. God bless you.
Posted by: Katherine on Sep 15, 2007 at 08:14 AM
I am praying for justice. If this Brewster fellow had charges filed aganist him for assult what ever happened. Don't just start to bring those things to light to make this young lady seem like she was so involved with this man. He is still a sick and twisted individual. Justice for Megan Come on and get it together
Posted by: anonymous on Sep 15, 2007 at 06:59 AM
i live in mingo co... and i'm telling you right now if they want justice for meagan they better get this moved out of logan co..cause these judge's and magistrate's and law enforcement's around here... well let's say it's all in who you know.and they must know someone 108 count's i have never broke the law not even a speeding or parking ticket and i'm in my 40's but they would lock me up and throw away the key. i also don't think this is really a hate crime, i think it was a revenge for her taking a complaint on him and all these pilled up sick individuals dont have no regards for no human being. i wish megan and her family all the best and a very quick recovery, god bless all of you.
Posted by: women on Sep 15, 2007 at 06:38 AM
TO AMAZED....this is not a hate crime they did date...you need to do some research on this before you have an opinion. The situation is HORRIBLE and I feel for the victim....But the DOMESTIC VIOLENCE people should be out in full force NOT THE NAACP....TO THE REST.....I really TIRED of everytime a person of color has an issue the NAACP comes a running....we heard about the Duke situation forever....where are they now saying they were wrong....or where are they when the black police office beat the white bartender on video....isnt she a minority....I get tired of them YELLING out everytime a person of color is involved in something....for those who SCREAM equality...they sure do separate themselves...Its getting OLD....STOP TURNING EVERYTHING INTO A RACE ISSUE PEOPLE......
Posted by: chrissy on Sep 14, 2007 at 10:25 PM
this is so sad..i can't even imagine going through an hour of what Megan went through i don't think anyone can, but to set there behind our computers and judge her for leaving home for days at a time, or her mother for going on t.v., or to compare Megan to the couple in Tn., or to a gay man getting murdered, or argue if this is a hate crime or not..shouldn't we be on the phones, writing letters anything it takes to get the laws changed? we all have our oppinions, but when is someone going to stand up and say ENOUGH..we need stiffer laws..i want the violence in my town to stop!!! we're losing sight of Megan and what happened to her when we debate over hate crime or not, she's an adult or not, she knew one or two of them or not..whats that matter? what matters is a young life, a beautiful spirit is forever damaged and changed, and its time to stand up if not for Megan then how about your daughters, or granddaughters, or nieces, or cousins, or friends, how about just the innocent in generl
Posted by: Bev on Sep 14, 2007 at 09:18 PM
I think what people do not understand about the charges are this. I believe in the law regarding hate crimes the kidnapping,sexual abuse and all the horrible things they did to Miss Williams would be lumped together under that one charge. That would only be a maximum of ten years. If the charges are not lumped together they will get a much stiffer sentence. I do believe this is a hate crime and we all know that it is. It's just that the kidnapping charge itself carries 25-life. Add sexual abuse and the other charges and these people will get 10 times the amount of years that the hate crime would bring. I am not saying that the hate crime did not happen, but unfortunately it doesn't carry the harshest punishment. Which is something that totally baffles me. Why just 10 years for a hate crime. That should be addressed by our law makers and raised to at least 25. To young Miss Williams and her family I want you to know that my family and I will pray for your healing. May God bless you.
Posted by: unknown on Sep 14, 2007 at 09:07 PM
i was waiting for that to come up..that was definitely a hate crime also..did that make national news?..this is a sad world we live in..to sit back & see the ignorance that comes out of people is something else..Yes there was a order for them not to be around each other & yes she was at his residence..but THERE IS NO REASON FOR WHAT WAS DONE TO HER!..people need to realize when they go before a judge & they are scared enough to make it into that court room, when the judge issues an order, it's not because of you being afraid, it's because they are afraid for you..judges are pretty smart people when it comes to domestic violence but it is very common here in our area for people to get the restraining/protective order & then make a mockery of it by putting themselves back in the situation..I was once told that someone who is abused will return to the abuser on an average of 7x's reason is they know how far they can push that person & dont know there is a differnent life out there..
Posted by: Sadie on Sep 14, 2007 at 06:51 PM
The mere fact that there are 100 previous charges goes to show that the legal system will probably fail this girl too.West Virginians need to contact their lawmakers and demand justice be served against these menaces to society.Stay strong Megan.God Bless You
Posted by: Alicia on Sep 14, 2007 at 05:43 PM
In response to the posting submitted by Cammie- Try to remember, it has not been definitively determined what the nature of Ms. Williams relationship to Mr. Brewster was. More importantly, there were a total of 6 perpetrators. Assuming Megan and Mr. Brewster were involved romatically, that doesn't account for the intentions or motivations of the other 5 relative to this being a hate crime. The sad truth is many will become consumed in displacing blame rather than focusing on the disgusting and vile acts committed against this young lady. Most sincere condolences to to Megan and her family.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 14, 2007 at 05:00 PM
To Big T. This girl is 20 years old - she is AN ADULT. It doesn't matter where her parents are. The last time I checked at the age of 18 you are considered an adult and can come and go as you please.
Posted by: Cammie on Sep 14, 2007 at 04:48 PM
This is a terrible thing that has happened. But, how can this be a hate crime when she dated one of the guys?!! Obviously he does not have a race problem. The problem is that she was pressing charges against him for domestic abuse! Just because she is black everyone is yelling its a hate crime!!! Then why was he dating her to begin with?!!!
Posted by: Mike on Sep 14, 2007 at 02:12 PM
You prolly can't divulge the adress of the hospital where Megan Willimas is but I'd like to send her some flowers. Not everyone in Logan County is filled with hate and evil. I love you, Megan and will be praying for your recovery.
Posted by: Amazed on Sep 14, 2007 at 02:00 PM
Once again I am blown away by the ignorance and racism that resides right here in the state that I once proudly called home. I still live here, but I am no longer proud of it. Why does it offend so many people that the NAACP and the churches have gotten involved? Why are so many people against this being considered a hate crime? No one is pretending that every single crime against a black person by someone of another race is a hate crime. But anytime that a crime involves someone using derogatory terms related to that person's race, sexuality, etc., then that clearly is a hate crime. Are there crimes that blacks commit against white people that are hate crimes? Of course there are. But just because in many cases prosecutors don't pursue that avenue, doesn't mean that they shouldn't in this case. Do not attempt to downplay the hate in this crime because you feel like the hate in others' crimes went unpunished. One has nothing to do with the other...
Posted by: Renee' on Sep 14, 2007 at 01:37 PM
Yes, alone a hate crime is about 10 years, but together with other charges it can be more years. Say they get life, that = 25 years 10 for the hate crime that =35 years. It depends on the sentencing. Say they are ordered to spend their time "concurrently" I think thats all the years combined into one lump sum and they would still be eligible for parole after the 25 life term. Then there is consecutively where they have to serve their time one sentence following another. When Life sentence is up then they can begin serving the remaining time for other charges such as Hate crime=10 years more and so on and so on. Can we here from (" LegalEagle") To explain all this to us, I have no legal background so I don't want to state an untruth. Can you tell us how many years they are looking at for each count? ASAP your answers.... Thanks so much. irm and tell us what they are really looking at here. Thanks.
Posted by: John on Sep 14, 2007 at 01:12 PM
What a terrible thing to do to someone. However, the Gazette just made the defense smile. Now they will argue the girl was abused by the parents, and she went to Logan for a safe haven. I say put a lid on everything until the case is in the courts.
Posted by: Big T on Sep 14, 2007 at 01:07 PM
This is a sad moment in southern WV. Where was this girls parents? They should be held accountable for her actions. Leaving the house for days at a time and not telling anyone where you are going is uncalled for. Also the NAACP needs to keep their noses out of southern WV until the investigation is completed. Next thing you know Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton will be voicing their opinions. That is all we need is for them two to be in WV.
Posted by: KYwhiteGuy on Sep 14, 2007 at 12:24 PM
Ok, now that we have what really looks to be a REAL hate crime, where is Al Sharpten, Jesse Jackson, etc? This is one of those cases that reaks of hate crime, but no big wigs of the National NAACP are running to WV. When they have no business in a case there they are, but show them a real case, they don't show up. Very Interesting. This really feel this was done to this girl only because she is black. I'm a white guy and my gut says, these people reeled her in and then just layed it to her. It doesn't matter how or where she met them, it's what and why it happened to her. I'm all for justice for all and this girl needs it now. This case is nothing but a hate crime. God Bless and be with all involved.
Posted by: lisa on Sep 14, 2007 at 12:14 PM
this is to robbie was you talking about rick a gay man in milten who to men broke in and beat him to death nothing as been said or done over this those to men are still out there to do it agian......
Posted by: concerned on Sep 14, 2007 at 12:07 PM
Let me start off with a comment about what Katherinte wrote. I am a white male but I have not thought about being white makes me a member of a community. I am an American and that's all that matters. Even more important I am one of God's creations which makes us all equal in my eyes. God sees no difference and I wish a lot more people could see it like that. What happened was very sad an trajic. Does this qualify as a hate crime - beyond doubt. What happened to this young lady is beyond comprehension. To not seek hate crime chares is scary to say the least. It shows me that the people in charge in Logan County are biased and will continue to be so. Folks, let's grow up - the color of someone's skin does not matter.What matters is character. Let's see if any character can show through now.
Posted by: alisa shepard on Sep 14, 2007 at 11:51 AM
I THINK THEY SHOULD BE CHARGED WITH A HATE CRIME AND EVERTHING ELSE THAT YOU CAN CHARGE THEM WITH. I DON;T WANT TO LIVE NEAR THEM.IT SEEMS PEOPLE WHO GET CAUGHT DEALING DRUGS GET MORE TIME THAN PEOPLE WHO KILL OR IN THIS MATTER TORTURE THEY WELL MORE THAN LIKLEY GET HOME CONVINMENT AT LEAST 3 OR 4 OF THEM WELL. AND MOST OF THE TIME THEY DO IT AGIAN WHO'S CHILD WELL BE NEXT?
Posted by: natalie on Sep 14, 2007 at 11:49 AM
this comment is to brad, there are several people in the logan area that has been in trouble with the law and they have family members in politics. Get your facts straight. Things like this happen every where and goes unreported. Logan is not the only town with problems. Yes, we may have problem people, like yourself, but all towns do. If people would stop acting like animals there wouldn't be crimes. These people need fed to the dogs. Sounds to me like you belong with them.
Posted by: Me on Sep 14, 2007 at 10:58 AM
as I sit here and read these comments, it is the exact thing I expected to see. If she were white. All you have to do is read all these comments to see the hate and racism coming out of most of you. I have heard so many people say they arent prejudice, yet the word black and white will be there. It doesnt matter what color she was, what happened was horrible whether it was race related or not. I listened to the Logan Prosecuter, he is trying to investigate and determine which charges will carry the most sentence. Does it really matter if the label on it is hate crime? Hate crimes dont carry as much of a sentence as what they could be facing and isnt the entire point putting them away for as long as possible? Megan, my prayers are with you
Posted by: Tee on Sep 14, 2007 at 10:39 AM
Megan I hope you recovery. My heart is filled with sadness with what happened to you. You are a special girl and very close to my heart. I love you and pray will cotinue to cover you with his blood. God saved you and I thank him for it. To the family my prayers goes out to you.I am here if there is any way I can help. God Bless.
Posted by: Big Dave on Sep 14, 2007 at 10:34 AM
Come on people. Get real. The NAACP, the comedy team of Jackson an Sharpton, the New (& improved) Black Panther Party as well as many other civil rights groups have a racist motivation. If you can't see that you're just stupid or kidding yourself. I think Affirmative Action should require the NAACP to take at least 15% their cases from whites who are claim they are discriminated against. You can bet if ANY of the Dade Co. Florida police officers that ended up having to shoot the black guy wearing body armor, with a Ak47 after shooting four police officers (killing one, wounding three)the NAACP, Hackson and Harpton as well as others will make a hate crime out of that.
Posted by: cathy on Sep 14, 2007 at 10:15 AM
I dont understand if this is not a hate crime then what is ? the stuff that they did to this young woman is not only sick but didnt they shout racial slurs at her while they were tormenting her.Ihope they lock these people up for life.they have a history of killing people dont they?I BELIEVE IT IS A HATE CRIME.
Posted by: TO KOMONI on Sep 14, 2007 at 10:14 AM
Cut the crap. This has been in the news ( as it should be) EVERY day since it happened. It's obvious from what you said, that you don't know who we are fighting in Iraq. We are not fighting IRAQ, we are fighting terrorism IN Iraq. Yes I have heard that the Administration has a secret agenda to keep black troops from knowing who to shoot at but we don't need anyone shooting fighting Iraq.
Posted by: A on Sep 14, 2007 at 09:43 AM
Aren't ALL crimes filled with hate? What does skin color have to do with anything? Let's call ALL crimes of this nature "hate crimes"!!!
Posted by: Cathy on Sep 14, 2007 at 09:41 AM
What has happened to this woman is HORRIBLE! I feel that those six people should suffer the same way as this woman did! Not everyone in Logan is like those people, and they are the kind of people who give Logan a bad Rep. My PRAYERS go out to Megan and her family. I feel Hate Crimes Should be added to their Charges and they should also recieve the Death Penalty!
Posted by: liz on Sep 14, 2007 at 09:35 AM
i have read through the comments here and see many references to "karma." there is no doubt the SURVIVOR of these horrific acts suffered greatly at the hands of many. i wish megan a speedy recovery and hope she gets the medical and emotional help she needs to live a healthy life. as for those charged-- forget about karma-- its called JUSTICE (on earth) and JUDGEMENT (in the next life) Either here or there, I feel sure they will ALL get what they deserve.
Posted by: Brenda on Sep 14, 2007 at 09:34 AM
If this young woman was indeed mentally challenged, then all the more reason to lock the animals up for life......A former relationship is not even relavent. the girl was abused both physcially and mentally.Will the scars ever go away???I think not. My prayers are with the familly.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 14, 2007 at 09:24 AM
Megan you are in my PRAYERS... I know that this will have an affect on your life but honey, NEVER GIVE UP!!!!!! GOD ALWAYS PROTECTS. He will do as he sees fit. STAY STRONG.
Posted by: KSM on Sep 14, 2007 at 09:14 AM
It is my understanding that this young lady is mentally impaired. If so, where was her mother? You would think that if your daughter, who was mentally challenged, was missing for more than 7 hours, let alone 7 days, you would go to any lengths to find out where she was. No missing persons report was filed because she thought her daughter was running around Logan? FOR DAYS? I am no way excusing the atrocities of the people who committed the crimes against this girl. They need to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. But if indeed this young lady was impaired, then she should have had better supervision, and perhaps Child Services, or the welfare system needs to take a better look at the situation, especially if she is going back home with the mother.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 14, 2007 at 08:48 AM
I want begin by saying that in no way, shape or form do I uphold these people in what they did. They are very sick individuals who should have been locked up long ago and never released. I am a caucasion woman and have very many wonderful african american friends whom I would trust with my life. I can't help but wonder if this was a caucasion woman tortured by african americans would people still think this was a hate crime? It does not matter what race you are, there are bad people in all races. Why is everything made to be more serious when bad things happen to african americans? RACE DOES NOT MATTER! People are people! With that said, I would like to tell Megan and her family that I wish her a speedy recovery and I am so very sorry that she endured this horrible crime. I wish her well.
Posted by: Robert on Sep 14, 2007 at 08:41 AM
First my prayers are with all the people involved, the victom and her falily and the accused and their famlies. Second, another hit for WV. we've had "The Real McCoys", The Beverly Hillbillies", and now the "Logan 6". whil we are trying to improve the stqtes image by catchy slogans like "Open for Business" or "Wild and Wondrful" we are presented to the rewt of the world in such a tragic situation. Third, why has the prosecution in Logan County not identified theis as a "Hate Crime". I do not know the legal requirements for such a charge but I would think that this would qualify. Is there some underlying reason for the lack of such a charge.
Posted by: Maxine on Sep 14, 2007 at 08:32 AM
This young woman went through a terrible ordeal and only her and the monsters that did it know the whole truth. I am questioning one thing. Why are all of these black churches getting involved? I'm sure they are angry and upset, but I think they need to take a step back and let the prosecutor do his job. I know they want the charges to be a hate crime BUT if the charges that are against them could bring them more jail sentence than a hate crime would you not want that instead. Common, we need to keep these people locked up for as long as possible and it’s my understanding that a hate crime is 10 years in prison and a $5000 fine. But if you take away the hate crime, some of maybe all could get life in prison. Should that not be what we want? Do we not want these people off the streets forever? Nobody can begin to fathom what this woman want through but I know if it were me, I would want the charges that would give them more jail time. My thoughts and prayers are with Megan.
Posted by: confused on Sep 14, 2007 at 07:40 AM
after listening to news it is my understang is that she dated one of the guys at 1 time now to me this makes no excuse to the crime and all involved should be punished to the fullest theres no sense that this should be done to anyone and my hearts and prayers go out to the family and the victim but how can they call it a hate crime she knew these people it wasnt like she was just picked off the street to be tortured and now the churches and the groups still want this to be trailed as a hate crime in my syes this is not a hate crime now for sure its just a terriable crime that should be treated as a crime and not hate these people are sick yes and need to be put away but its not a hate crime when you knew the people and agreed to be there unless they can prove she was kiddnapped and i havent heard she was
Posted by: Beth on Sep 14, 2007 at 07:12 AM
My heart and prayers go out to Megan and her family. As for the 6 people who did this to her, I hope you get the worst punishment possible.
Posted by: Citizen on Sep 14, 2007 at 02:38 AM
You know I just can't believe that this has happened. It is still unbelievable.She is such a young girl and now having to live a nightmare instead of being able to live her life like a normal young lady should be able to do.I hope that the Lord will give her and her family strength to get through this.And she is in my prayers.I hope that justice will be done and a very good punshiment will be served that way if anybody else does this then they will see what the consequences are.I pray that the Lord will touch all their lives and do what is best.He knows what it is.I just don't know why people do this crazy stuff for.It is uncalled for and needs to be taken very serious. God Bless the whole family and May God be with you through this time. For he will be there for you just trust in him.
Posted by: Jamie on Sep 14, 2007 at 02:25 AM
Also I agree with whoever said a couple of these people will get off with lesser charges for their part due to plea bargaining to lesser time to testify against the others. I know officials need the evidence in cases, but to think of any of these 6 getting off with lighter sentences makes me sick to my stomach. As to the subject of hate crimes, I say this firmly & strongly knowing that any kind of harassment or racism is wrong, but to me, any crime could be a hate crime. You don't kill someone, rape someone, etc. because you love them or you're doing something good for them. Yes, the slurs they used were vicious & uncalled for, but if we start separating every crime according to race, where do you start or draw the line then? Sure seems clearcut in this instance, but will this then set up every crime to be according to race & then what classifies & what doesn't. Plus if the punishment will be less severe with the classification, then pursue stronger charges & heavier time without it.
Posted by: Jamie on Sep 14, 2007 at 01:55 AM
So why are these people not being charged with conspiracy to commit murder or attempted murder? With her small stature, there's no way what they were doing wouldn't have eventually killed her. Plus it is said the mother even admitted they were going to kill her & dump her in a lake & the son told his mother to kill her if she tried to leave. Sounds like an attempted murder or another charge of some kind should be added. I wish they could receive half of what they've done to know how it feels. Yes, the Bible does say an eye for an eye, but they'll be sitting behind bars, getting an education, lifting weights, reading, & having all the luxuries provided to inmates while she relives this every day for the rest of her life. What kind of justice is that? Our justice system lacks severely. Why do we treat inmates like 4-star hotel guests? Plus repeat offenders, they should still be behind bars, at least mom & son. Commit murder & get out in such a short time, that is unreal!
Posted by: KOMONI on Sep 14, 2007 at 01:20 AM
LISTEN FOLKS WE ARE NOT GETTING ANY COVERAGE ABOUT THIS ONLY ONCE WHEN IT HAPPEN I GUESS THE PEOPLE ON TOP DONT WANT THE BLACK PEOPLE WHO ARE FIGHTING IRAQ REALIZE WHO THE REAL ENEMY IS MAN JUST IMAGINE WHAT THEY DID TO OUR WOMEN WHEN WE WAS SLAVES
Posted by: To Maria on Sep 14, 2007 at 01:05 AM
They might get 100 years in jail but it won't be a HATE CRIME. Google "TN Couple Tortured" You'll find what you say you're looking for. These people both in WV and TN don't need jail, they need put down like the rabbid dogs they are.
Posted by: citizen on Sep 14, 2007 at 12:41 AM
Does this Black Church help white victims and there families? A lot of white victims needs someone to help them. I think all of the people that done this needs to be locked up for life!
Posted by: Dazeybee on Sep 14, 2007 at 12:31 AM
Megan, mother, father, pastors, family and friends do not under any circumstance give up.You are all in my heart, mind & my prayers. It is a fact that this is a definate race hate crime and in my opinion it is what it is, race hate. Wake up America, we are all equal. It doesn't matter whether we are orange, yellow, red, black, brown, or white we are all equal and deserve equal treatment and equal justice. It was horrible what Megan went through and no one should ever be treated this way. I don't care who it is or who they are related to, they are to be punished severely to the extent of the law. Do not let them do any plea bargains, or any other lessor deals, don't give up. WE PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITES STATES OF AMERICA, AND TO THE REPUBLIC FOR WHICH IT STANDS, ONE NATION UNDER GOD, INDIVISIBLE, WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. God bless each of you and IN GOD WE TRUST. Dazeybee
Posted by: katherine on Sep 13, 2007 at 11:58 PM
I am a member of the black community. I am apalled at the way this young woman was treated. Speaking on behalf of my community I"d like to see thses people charged with a hate crime. The treatment of Megan was horrid. I urge every one to help get justice for Megan. Keep her in your prayers
Posted by: LegalEagle on Sep 13, 2007 at 11:40 PM
Coming from a legal backgroud, I understand why the six individuals will not be charged with a hate crime. If you listen to the requrements of charging an individual with a federal hate crime, it is clear that this situation does not constitute a hate crime. Just because the "N" word was used does not make this a hate crime. The victim was not targeted for her race. She had a previous relationship with one of the accused. The crime is not being downplayed here, but don't throw the "hate crime" card out when it doesn't apply.
Posted by: sad on Sep 13, 2007 at 11:37 PM
I was just wondering if it was a white female would it cause such a big scen in logan, and why isnt the parents going be charge with anything. The parents said she had problems, Seems like the parents would keep up with there. daugther, i fel sorry for the family, but maybe some people lives down in logan maybe getting of all the attention that there getting there 15 mins of fame,
Posted by: Citizen Kane on Sep 13, 2007 at 11:35 PM
The misery pimps are descending and WSAZ is all too happy to help them push forward the liberal agenda, Jesse and Fat Al can't be far behind. Hate crime laws are necessary but what's going on in this case is exactly what will make them impotent. If prosecutors cave to the pressure and file hate crime charges the victim will be vitimized once again when the perpetrators walk out of the courthouse free men and women. Hate laws are specific and there simply isn't a case here for it. But like the "smug cloud" in the South Park episode WSAZ and the misery pimps will have the satisfaction of knowing they fought the good fight for liberalism. After all justice for the victim isn't as important as ideology.
Posted by: Daniel on Sep 13, 2007 at 10:07 PM
For the comment posted by Robbie it is not a sin to be a black female, but it is a sin to be a gay man. So please repent before it is too late. To even make that statement is very wrong. I am white by the way and married to a beautiful black woman. People should realize that being gay is a sin, point blank. Think about that Robbie.
Posted by: Brad on Sep 13, 2007 at 10:01 PM
I'm glad the people of this country found out what Logan County is really like. It has it's own laws for certain people who are associated with politicians. The rest of the citizens are not protected by the law. If you don't believe me, just come on down and visit.
Posted by: Ms. Perdue on Sep 13, 2007 at 09:09 PM
I don't understand how these people are not being charged with a hate crime. I don't care if she had dated this man for 6mo or 22 years when she was called a racial slur by these people that is when they made everything a hate crime. To everyone reading this not from Logan don't be suprised, this is typical politics in Logan. To the politicians here in Logan, why not charge them with everything you say carries a stiffer penalty and still charge them with the hate crime. Once again it will be brushed under the rug.. Mrs. Brewter only pulled 5 years for killing an old woman what an outrage!!!
Posted by: Alistair on Sep 13, 2007 at 08:15 PM
Considering that WV's population is some 90% white and 10% other (to include blacks) and that a majority of that 10% lives in the Huntington/Charleston area rather than the remote counties; What are the chances that their "random" victim would have been a young black woman when there are so very few blacks in the Logan area. Clearly, she was sought out for her race hence, this should be dealt with as a Hate Crime because it's target was obviously specific.
Posted by: Melissa on Sep 13, 2007 at 07:40 PM
I'm really worried about Meghan's case! Will the same Judges that let these 6 Criminals out FREE on 108 Criminal Complaints, be the SAME JUDGES to decide the fate of Meghan's Case? For that fact alone this Case should be moved to another county quickly.Everyone should work together and make sure there is justice for this family and exspecialy for this young lady who has survived these unthinkable act's of torture,the 6 should also be charged with attemptied Murder. Does anyone really think they were going to just let her go, after all they had done to her? I think there was a plan to Kill her! The State and the FBI should also look into why these Judges let these people get away with 108 Criminal Complaints. The 6 Criminals should be jailed for life, and these Judges should loose there office, so that this never happens again and the people are protected from poor extreme poor judgement. My heart and prayer are with you and your family Meghan.
Posted by: Mandy on Sep 13, 2007 at 05:44 PM
I still can't believe in this day and age that people would still do such horrific acts to other people. An animal shouldn't even be treated this way. I literally cried when I heard this story on the news. My thoughts and prayers are with Megan and her family.
Posted by: New Yorker on Sep 13, 2007 at 04:47 PM
This is the worst thing I have ever read or saw on TV!!!! I wish that all 6 of them get back the karma they so so deserve for doing this to this young girl who will have to live with this forever!!!! I sure every jail already knows about it and I can not wait for them to go and have what was done to her done to them so they can get a taste of it!!! I pray for her that she'll grow stronger and fight this in court, and that mentially she heals, god bless you megan williams for getting up enough power to get up and walk to the door, that says a whole lot of the woman you are.
Posted by: robbie on Sep 13, 2007 at 03:59 PM
Imagine that she is black,female the national news comes to town with a hate crime, but if a gay man gets murdered in his own home and they know who done it, but will not arrest them, or even think about it as a hate crime. Where is the justice!!!
Posted by: lm on Sep 13, 2007 at 01:53 PM
Too bad WV don't have the death penalty. I pray that Megan heals physically and emotionally from this ordeal.
Posted by: David on Sep 13, 2007 at 01:12 PM
These individuals may hav a hard time getting a lawyer with l08 criminal complaints against them.
Posted by: Tobie on Sep 13, 2007 at 12:54 PM
Meghan was let down by the state and our judicial system. As a society we shouldnt let Meghan down. We should all speak out for her... Do your part spread her story Nancy Grace, Montel, Oprah let her know that we will be there for her. I hope that some day She will no longer be victimized by these events....but go on to help other victims
Posted by: BRENDA on Sep 13, 2007 at 11:52 AM
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY, I PRAY GOD GIVES THEM THE STRENGTH TO GO FORWARD. IT DOESN'T MATTER WHAT COLOR YOU ARE IN THE EYES OF GOD, WRONG IS JUST WRONG. RACISM IS HERE AND AS I GROW OLDER I DON'T SEE IT GETTING ANY BETTER UNTIL PEOPLE LEARN THAT YOU HAVE TO PRACTICE WHAT YOU PREACH, AND LEARN THAT IN THE EYES OF GOD WE ARE ALL THE SAME. WE ARE ALL DIFFERENT BECAUSE HE WANTED US THAT WAY. WHEN HE DIED ON THE CROSS HE DID NOT SAY ANYTHING ABOUT COLOR. STOP BEING THE DEVILS ADVOCATE REACH OUT TO EACH OTHER IN THE MANNER GOD IS SPEAKING OF NOT MAN. GOD HELP US ALL!!!
Posted by: green on Sep 13, 2007 at 11:41 AM
Also, everyone should read susie's links for the Tennessee case. I see the point many have tried to make. Why is this considered a hate crime but the Tennessee one not? And really, why didn't anyone hear about it? Maybe this doesn't mean anything at all, but it does feel very, very wrong to me. The color of a person's skin does not make one crime worse or more important then another. These were both hate-filled crimes, the media needs to stop picking and choosing the sensationalism of a story and just tell people what happened. I hope and pray justice is served in both cases.
Posted by: Trish on Sep 13, 2007 at 11:27 AM
This is an awful thing that happened to this young woman. All of these people should be punished to the fullest extent of the law. There are Bad People everywhere not just WV. This is the Bible Belt and WV is at the heart of it. It stands out so much when bad things happen here because it is not as common as Larger cities. All my prayers are with this young woman and her family , but don't blame WV for this crime blame the ones who did it.
Posted by: green on Sep 13, 2007 at 11:17 AM
I'm with Vicki. After a crime has been committed it almost always comes out that they are repeat offenders. Why can't we ever learn? How many times does someone have to commit a similar crime before we realize they are not going to change? Put them in jail and KEEP them there until they die.
Posted by: Maddie on Sep 13, 2007 at 10:34 AM
These people need to be treated the way they treated their victim. The bible says an eye for an eye. If they had 108 charges between them all, why were they free and out in the public? That is saying something about our criminal system. I don't know what can be done about this! The way I feel the victims of these people have been treated like the criminals, because the criminals were out walking the streets free and clear and still terrorizing people. Their rights should have been revoked. My thoughts and prayers are with Megan and her family. If this had been my daughter, I don't know what I would have done!
Posted by: Citizen on Sep 13, 2007 at 09:49 AM
To: The All the Citizens for"Speaking UP" and telling the truth about what they know or saw concerning a VIOLENT CRIME that was or is done to a Child or another Citizen anywhere YOU DESERVE A BIG THANKYOU for BEING THESE VICTIMS VOICE IN THEIR TIME OF NEED!Keep up the GoodWork! Those of you that know of a crime done aganist anyone in the past please come forward, and let adults or others know you can TRUST to Speak Out for you,don't hold this in,and don't be afraid,to tell who done it no matter who they are! It is the Right Thing To Do! We all have to share the world together and no one should ever beat, torture,or cause severe injury, attempt to murder or murder another Human Being!
Posted by: Angie on Sep 13, 2007 at 09:41 AM
Chapmanville residents are in shock!! We all are disgusted by what these people have done. But nothing has ever been said about the person who tipped the police off.....god bless this person !! Whoever you are, thank god you done it. It really didnt matter to me if they call it a "hate crime" or not. The crime itself is a disgrace and should be punishable to the fullest extent. God bless you Megan. Get well soon.
Posted by: Maxine Hines on Sep 13, 2007 at 08:16 AM
Here's what I never could understand and I pose this question to everyone who even displays the least amount of prejudice. "Did you get to choose what color you wanted to be born?" No, so what makes you think you're better than somone of a different color/origin that you?
Posted by: anonymous on Sep 13, 2007 at 07:57 AM
what's wrong with everyone" tou know what's going to happen 3 or4 of them are going to make deals get off for their part and the rest take the fall that's how it is around here plea bargain's, this poor girl will not get justice for what they did, and everyone know's this. these are very sick individuals and our justice system does not work, it's not the people of wva. it's our laws.i wish megan and her family all the best and i hope these 6 get what they deserve but i'm not going to hold my breath cause justice will not be served. just watch and see.
Posted by: Debby on Sep 13, 2007 at 07:28 AM
This sickens & shames me to have been born & raised here in Logan. My husband is black & he & I have experienced first hand racism at its worst here in Logan on many ocassions. It's so evil what people can & will do. I was raised in Chapmanville in an all white school & a all white neighborhood & my Dad was a preacher & he & Mom taught me to love everyone regardless of race. This kind of thing is what makes Logan look so bad & shameful. Megan sweetie I am praying hard for you girl. I am so sorry you endured this but for you to have survived means God has big big plans for you !!! God bless you & your family !!! I AM SORRY YOU WENT THROUGH SOMETHING SO EVIL !!!
Posted by: Timothy on Sep 13, 2007 at 06:53 AM
Good Job WSAZ-t.v. I don't live in West Virginia and I watch you news everyday because you report the facts of the stories not your opinion and that is very rare these days unlike allot of local news agency's you are giving the full facts to the kidnapping and torture of Megan Williams in my opinion this was a hate crime and to not prosecute it as one is an insult to the intelligence of the general public and what does it matter if she knew one of the accused look at the seriousness of the crime that was committed the last thing this girl needs right now is to loose confidence in the justice system hopefully if this story stays in the public eye enough the system will be too afraid to make a mistake and it will work if not then is speaks poorly to the moral values of this day and age my prayers are with Miss Williams
Posted by: cynthia on Sep 13, 2007 at 04:48 AM
i feel those 6 people should be given a long sentence how would they like it if someone did their child this way i try to teach my grandchildren not to go with friends someplace without telling a parent maybe posting this it may save the life of someones child maybe it could even be one of their children god will bring your daughter to good health and safety keep the prayers going for her
Posted by: shawn on Sep 13, 2007 at 02:02 AM
This region is far behind the rest of the country...thanks
Posted by: Liz on Sep 13, 2007 at 01:35 AM
I'd also like to add that Megan is small, she stands 4'11". I personally feel that "conspiracy to commit murder" should be amongst the charges because her small frame could not have endured much more torture. If the kind soul who phoned in the anonymous tip had not called, and if the sheriff had not discovered discovered her, Megan probably would have been dead if she had to endure the torture for another week. My heart aches with you Megan, but be strong and don't let your tormentors succeed in ruining the rest of your life. You have an eternal friend in NC.
Posted by: Liz on Sep 13, 2007 at 01:23 AM
While I personally feel the 6 people involved in the torture of Megan are racists (and while I feel that Megan's race may have given more fuel to the fire of the torture)I do not think race was the sole motivation for this heinous crime. However, speaking of racists: They tend to consider themselves above ALL other races of people, however, they continually prove themselves to be at the lowest rung of humanity by their commission of acts such as those Megan, Ricky Bird and countless others have endured. As for Megan and her family, they should sue the socks off the Logan County officials for allowing these felons back on the streets. With their numerous convictions, it's obvious that they do not belong amongst the general population of Logan or any other county in the United States. However, they were allowed to return to society.. your society and my society. While I do not live locally to Logan county, North Carolina has it's own share of criminal vermin and it affects us all.
Posted by: Sue B. on Sep 13, 2007 at 12:40 AM
is someone setting up a fund or anything for this family? I would like to send something. I have written the family a letter, but I do not know where to send it. May GOD have mercy on the accused. And GOD please comfort this family!
Posted by: Betty Davis on Sep 13, 2007 at 12:39 AM
I would like to let the victim know that are so many ppl praying for her and her recovery. Be strong. You are such a SURVIVOR to endure what you have been through. Just know not all ppl are bad. And so many ppl are praying for you, and wish you a speedy recovery. And those responsible will get what is coming to them. Im glad you have your mom and family with you. But just know ppl all over the WV area and the United States are praying for you. So be strong, and do everything you can do to get well physically, mentally. You are in My prayers. God Bless You and your family. And just let the judicial system take care of the cruel ppl who did these terrible things to you. Remember you are a survivor. God Bless You!! Thoughts and Prayer are with you, and believe me their are alot of prayer all over WV and The USA going out for you. Your strong, and a great example for other victims. But just take care of yourself and do what your doctors tell you too. And Pray, cause God is with you.
Posted by: Renee' on Sep 12, 2007 at 11:49 PM
To Brandy: Who are you to ridicule Mary? You come on here and you talk about how bad and cruel those people are with no thought about how you may be hurting Mary's feelings. She may be doing the best she can. She may be someones grandmother. Last time I checked we are still free to give our opinion, wether or not we agree with what they say. Just like your free to say what you said. Even if its morally wrong and childish. This isn't high school anymore and your little jab at Mary to us makes you look incredibly immature!!! We are all HERE for the greater good, MEGAN!!!! We will all be watching the police and trial handlement to make sure these people do not slip through the cracks. As Anderson Cooper says "keeping them honest" We will be watching... We LOVE YOU MEGAN!!!!!! Just remember one day at a time. Get through this day and tomorrow get through that one. Just deal with today .... Hang in there!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Kelly on Sep 12, 2007 at 11:43 PM
My prayers are with Megan's family and friends. When I first heard of this story that is what I thought a story. I could not imagine someone actually being so sick and full of hate to do such a thing to a beautiful human being. Life is so precious and for someone to do what these things (cause they are not people) had done to her are unspeakable and unthinkable. To think that there is such cruel things going on in this world are scary I have two children of my own and I just cant imagine what her poor family is going through or feeling. My heart breaks for them all and my prayers are forever with them. She is absolutely a strong woman and for those creatures who did this I hope are punished to the extreme. They should never have mercy placed upon them. For them I couldn't think of a punishment good enough. Jail would be if they was to have done that to a animal, but to a young girl how do you find a punishment for them? Again I pray for them but also pray for the hate to end.
Posted by: yvonne on Sep 12, 2007 at 11:22 PM
i just wanted to say how sorry i am to hear about something so awful. i feel so bad for that girl . nothing the court does to those 6 people will be good enough . Megan will be in my praye GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU.
Posted by: anonymous on Sep 12, 2007 at 11:01 PM
first and formost all of our prayers are with this young lady and her family. to someone below, yes their is ingnorance in the state of wv, as well as all of the other states, it is everywhere. why in the world where these people allowed to be living among the free after all of the murders and crimes they have committed. i am afraid now to go or be alone here in my home town of chapmanville. we love this town because it is small and a loving and welcoming town. also to some of the comments below, my children attend a grade school in chapmanville and their are black children that attend along with indian, white and muslims and i have never whitnessed and racism, these children don't even no what that is. our middle school principle is black. some people need to get a grip on life and just realize these things are happening in our society, we just don't no how much of it until it happens in our doorstep. igonorance breeds ignorance, these people are truly EVIL and need locked up.
Posted by: Sherry on Sep 12, 2007 at 10:54 PM
It really upsets me about Megan.Nobody should go through that.But the suspects will probably get off by pleading insanity. get a social security check also.You can even get a Check here by being obese. But thats not what its about its about Megan. Hope they get what they deserve Megan and more
Posted by: jm on Sep 12, 2007 at 10:54 PM
Destiny I will give you your money back because i do not want your 2 cents!
Posted by: Jen on Sep 12, 2007 at 10:53 PM
I do not understand why this situation was not considered a "hate crime" when the suspect(s) used racial slurs against the victim while torturing her.My heart and prayers go out to the victim and her family.
Posted by: james on Sep 12, 2007 at 10:47 PM
I'M Sorry Tammy i misspelled FROM in my last comment so i will fix it so you will not be ashamed of us from Logan County!!
Posted by: Shirley on Sep 12, 2007 at 10:23 PM
My thoughts and prayers are with Megan and her family. I would like to say that I don't understand how so many people can do such things to an individual, but I can't. I don't think Hate crime describes this event, maybe cruel and unusual punishment. A young ladies sense of security was destroyed by six people who have no respect for human life. Regardless of where you are from, who you are, how you were raised, or how you live your life. This case should raise the awarness of REPEAT offenders and their liklyhood to grow into more vicious felons.
Posted by: bill on Sep 12, 2007 at 10:09 PM
Just heard your report that these six have 108 charges since 1991, including two murders. Why are they out on the street?
Posted by: Anne on Sep 12, 2007 at 10:01 PM
This is indeed a hate crime and the six people should be executed by all means. I grew up in Chapmanville. There were no blacks in Chapmanville, except for an elderly lady who lived in the Big Creek area. But I can certainly tell you that racism there has always been a problem. Even in the 60's the n word was used frequently. At one time a young black man was hitchhiking outside of C-ville and 2 men picked him up and beat him. One of the men eventually committed murder and went to prison, but is now out. So that is how our legal system works. I do want to say not all people in that area are ignorant and hate blacks, but a lot were then and still are. My parents were not racist, but my siblings were and still are. All I can say is that God help these people. They do not deserve to live in our society.
Posted by: Dorohy on Sep 12, 2007 at 09:17 PM
I think that these sick individuals should get the maxine sentence. How could you treat one of God's children like that.
Posted by: sandra on Sep 12, 2007 at 09:10 PM
you are in are prays
Posted by: james on Sep 12, 2007 at 09:10 PM
to the comment that TAMMY made: not all of us form this area are illiterate or on drugs. you talk about that you are ashamed of this county then maybe it is a good thng that you moved away because i am ashamed of YOU!!!!
Posted by: Destiny on Sep 12, 2007 at 08:51 PM
It makes no difference whether she knew these people or not. This girl was mentally challenged, yet she finished high school and was an adult. Her mother didn't have to keep up with her despite her defiencies. If you really want to know how horrific this crime was, read the CHARGING documents at thesmokinggun.com. In fact, here is a link: http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/years/2007/0911071logansix1.html. So what if she went there on her own? So what if she knew them! Nobody's child should be treated this way, black or white and the state prosecutor should pursue this as a hate crime. And I agree with the poster who wrote about the Jena 6 being slapped with million dollar bails for a "schoolyard" fight; yet these people who could face LIFE in prison for raping this girl and torturing her get bail? They should have been held WITHOUT bond. If you W.Virginians are truly "stunned" you should write your state prosecutor and make sure he does the right thing. Thats my 2 cents.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 12, 2007 at 08:02 PM
These six individulas are sick! I don't even believe in the death penalty, but hearing this story, I think they should all be sentence to death. There is no reason for these people to ever see the light of day again. I don't believe it matters if the person was white, black, or purple. The six individuals should all be punished severely. Just looking at their pictures tells me that they need to be in jail. I will keep Megan and her family in my thoughts and prayers.
Posted by: Brandy and Elizabeth on Sep 12, 2007 at 07:37 PM
we love u Megan and we hope u get well soon. we hope the people who did this to u are IN JAIL FOR LIFE and get the some treatment that they did to u and we love u it makes me want to cry but we have to be stronge for each other if u need me just call we hope u recovery soon so we can get together again i miss that WE LOVE U MEGAN and hope the best for u Carmen if u need something just call or come to the job or to the houes ok
Posted by: Maria on Sep 12, 2007 at 07:36 PM
Jennifer, you say there was a "very similar" case in Knoxville, TN where 6 blacks raped, tortured and killed a white couple. If it was not nationally covered, how did you find out about it? If it was only in the local news, which newspaper covered the story? I would like to investigate this incident. If this is so, I'll bet each of those 6 blacks received 100 years in prison. Megan, my prayers are with you. Keep strong, recover, and testify against these hideous "people".
Posted by: alisha on Sep 12, 2007 at 07:13 PM
i just watched the mothers interview on the internet and noticed the mother telling a lie to the reporter. Williams did in fact know at least Bobby Brewster and this isnt the first time they have had trouble with each other. In fact a few months ago the two were involved in a relationship that involved domestic violence charges against Brewster. This is public record. why is the mother saying that the victim nor her mother knew the monters that done these terrible things to her? What other things could they be lying about with this story? This has gotten nationwide attention. At least the correct facts could be provided!
Posted by: Alisha on Sep 12, 2007 at 07:05 PM
our state is being condemed by the media accross the nation.
Posted by: sherry on Sep 12, 2007 at 06:52 PM
cheryl u are right these people have been in trouble with the law for years now & maybe this well stop the NOW!!! at I hope it does. but the young lady well get better & get on her feet & by tha way it does not matter why she was in Logan for this is a free country.
Posted by: marcia on Sep 12, 2007 at 06:28 PM
how can people be so cruel and uncaring to do this to another human being, I think they should be locked away where they cant hurt any other innocent person, the past proves all they know is violence and altercations with the law
Posted by: iyowka bradsher on Sep 12, 2007 at 06:25 PM
how in the world can these men not be charged with the hate crime law. no offense or anything but is it becasue she is black?? if it was a white a woman and the men were black they would have never even gotten the opportunity to get bail but these men were only charge a $100,000.00 for bail.
Posted by: Megan on Sep 12, 2007 at 06:20 PM
I am 19 yrs of age a year younger than Megan. I hope her the best and do not understand how someone could do such a thing to one person; but if you do not know someone and go to their house, you cannot always expect proper treatment. Hopefully this tragedy shows younger children that this can actually happen, to any race,any age. Growing up in this community all my life, I have seen crime and the loss of losing loved ones to it, just makes you think what links will people go to, to hurt a complete stranger just for the sick amusement or what have you. I pray the younger generations will have enough sense to think twice before you trust someone with your life.
Posted by: Concerned on Sep 12, 2007 at 06:14 PM
This is a very touchy situation. With the release of the latest information that she had a previous relationship with the one abuser and the fact that there was an order in effect that they were not to be around each other, there can actually be charges brought against her and him. This is a sad situation. She will be scarred for life, as if she wasnt already, seems that people that are abused will return to their abuser approx. 7 times before they actually break free and dont return. I didnt really think about that when it was first said, but the more you see on the news the more true it seems to be. Just like addictions, abused individuals have to break free from the routine they are in. Some stay because they know what to expect from the abuser where as if they turn to someone new they dont know what to expect but they do expect that everyone is abusive. I will keep this family in my prayers.
Posted by: Ralph on Sep 12, 2007 at 06:14 PM
Sorry for what happened to the young lady. This is only a reminder of how far we have to go, no way anyone can tell me racism is dead.
Posted by: Jennifer on Sep 12, 2007 at 06:09 PM
My heart breaks for this young woman and her family. I do not understand how people can be so cruel to do this. These people should be punished to the fullest extent. I can only pray for her and her family to somehow work through the long road that this woman has ahead of her. You are in my thoughts and prayers
Posted by: Kim on Sep 12, 2007 at 05:59 PM
It appalls me that folks are worried about WV's image in a time like that -- for goodness sakes' people, this poor girl was raped, abused, tormented, and you are worried about how we as Wvians are being viewed. Well by the sounds of some of the statements I would say you can be viewed as pretty selfish, and pretty self-centered.. Worrying about us being portrayed as hillbillies and rednecks should be the least of your concerns. Why not worry about the young lady and her family, folks with real problems, and real issues.
Posted by: Niklas on Sep 12, 2007 at 05:32 PM
I don't understand why in a world teaching how all are the same, would call a killing a hate crime because of race. Shouldn't they be punished just the same had that group done this to a white girl? Shouldn't they be punished just as severely if they had never used the n-word while torturing that poor girl? If people want racism to stop, then stop teaching racism. Hatecrime should be any act of violence committed against another person, REGARDLESS of the race of the perpetrator, or the victim. Anything else is...well bigoted!
Posted by: Dwight on Sep 12, 2007 at 04:40 PM
I don't understand. Forget the week long gang rape. Isn't kidnapping a FEDERAL crime? Also, how can they say that this is NOT covered by the Fedaeral Hate Crimes statute? I bet this happens a few thousand times a year but people just 'vanish' and become 'missing persons'... This is SICK.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 12, 2007 at 04:25 PM
I read about the Tennessee murder. It was terrible. Here is a link...http://www.volunteertv.com/special/headlines/8391002.html
Posted by: Calvin on Sep 12, 2007 at 04:04 PM
Someone needs to do a study to see how many felons end up being 2nd offenders. Maybe after the study we could find another way to deal with felons.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 12, 2007 at 03:59 PM
I Don't think they should do this to Megan. They made her eat dog and rat feces!! This junk needs to stop. They need to put the six that done this in jail forever! It isn't right to torture someone like that.
Posted by: Vicki on Sep 12, 2007 at 03:56 PM
These things could have been prevented. Some of the six are past felons. Lethal Injection. Stop letting these sick people out of jail so they can turn around and do something agian. Repeat offenders could be stopped. Fix them the first time.
Posted by: susie on Sep 12, 2007 at 03:49 PM
http://www.wbir.com/news/regional/story.aspx?storyid=41276 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murder_of_Channon_Christian_and_Christopher_Newsom Here are a couple of web sites about the TN case. I am sorry but I feel that the hate crime legislation is wrong. A crime is a crime is a crime, it should not be treated any differently than any other crime unless it is going to be done across the board. Megan knew at least one of the 6, I do not know in what way. But they had an altercation of some sort. What they did to her was wrong, and the people that did it should be punished, I feel that the death penalty is too harsh for this crime, maybe life in prison without parole. But the case in TN they murdered a couple and should receive the death penalty.
Posted by: CAMERON on Sep 12, 2007 at 03:18 PM
ACTUALLY THIS DOESN'T MAKE WV LOOK BAD. NOR DOES IT MAKE LOGAN COUNTRY LOOK BAD. THIS SITUATION COULD HAVE HAPPENED ANY WHERE, ANY TIME. HOWEVER, I WISH PEOPLE WOULD QUIT JUDGING US. THIS IS A SAD SAD SITUATION. HOWEVER, NOT EVERYONE IN WV IS LIKE THIS!!THIS MAKES ME WONDER HOW MANY OTHER PEOPLE ARE OUT THERE WITH 100 CRIMINAL RECORDS RUNNING FREE.
Posted by: green on Sep 12, 2007 at 03:18 PM
This is a horrible story, my prayers are with this poor woman and I hope those responsible recieve the maximum punishment. However, I would like to add I agree with those who say this crime is not a representation of the entire state of West Virginia. West Virginia is NOT some huge breeding ground for racists and rapists. These type of people unfortunately exist everywhere in all classes and races.
Posted by: wendy on Sep 12, 2007 at 03:12 PM
i am from chapmanville wv and proud of it!i am a hillbilly and a redneck,but i would never do something like that,it is ashame that she was put through the torture that she endured and i wish her a full recovery.this kind of stuff happens in all states and countries,imagine what goes on in the big cities of the world.those of you that are saying you are from wv and ashamed you should be ashamed of your self
Posted by: Tiger on Sep 12, 2007 at 03:06 PM
It is a joke how the liberal media, aka WSAZ, CNN, and MSNBC, are all making this about skin color. Bobby Brewster and Megan Williams were a couple and had domestic disputes in the past where the police were called. No matter if Megan's skin was white, brown, or purple, this atrocious crime still would have happened. Drop the liberal race card and start concentrating on how sick these individuals really were.
Posted by: Amanda on Sep 12, 2007 at 02:46 PM
I do not understand how anyone could put one single person through so much hurt and pain. I feel so sorry for Megan and her family. I can't imagine my child having to go through something like Megan is. I live about 20 to 30 minutes away from the site where the abuse of Megan took place. Some people in our area need to realize that this is not 50 years ago. This is today...2007. They need to grow up and stop acting like they are so tough. One of these days they will meet their match too! I say that West Virginia needs to stop racism all together. I have always thought it was so stupid!!
Posted by: To Jose Fresco on Sep 12, 2007 at 02:34 PM
Read the CNN site and you will see the article about the TN case.
Posted by: tc on Sep 12, 2007 at 02:17 PM
I hope for a quick recovery for Megan and Carmen, they should be first in our thoughts. Get well cards could be put in area malls to allow the public to show it's concern for them. Second should be punishing the offenders to the fullest extent possible. Third, the public should let it be known that this is not acceptable and certainly not typical. Rallies (fundraisers?)could be held to prove this point. WV's Ken Heckler marched with Dr. King, maybe WV should march for this young lady.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 12, 2007 at 01:55 PM
Just one comment before I begin, Not all people in WV are like this and we are not all "Rednecks". I feel that these people that did this to Megan should be charged to the fullest extend, this is such a horrible crime that did. I can not even stomach this. Why do people think they can do this to another human and get away with it is beyond me. My prayers are with you, Stay Strong and let GOD take care of you, and also take care of the people that did this to you. God Bless
Posted by: Annie on Sep 12, 2007 at 01:35 PM
This story is sick. I cannot believe that another human being could be so malicious. I hope these hillbillies are happy to be facing federal hate crime charges. How does this happen? How does a person think that they have the right to do this to another person?
Posted by: K on Sep 12, 2007 at 01:12 PM
M. They said this was a mostly white area. Also, it seems like to me that any crime is a hate crime, that seems like common sense. I think one of the local WV newspapers is setting up a fund for Megan, I am sure she will have extensive medical bills. And no doubt will need years of therapy. If these people have been in trouble with the law what was it 108 times, why are they no in jail??????
Posted by: jose fresco on Sep 12, 2007 at 12:52 PM
This is the Internet people. If you're going to claim that a "similar case" happened to a white couple somewhere--show us a LINK. If it didn't get covered in the media, as you say, link to the court records--whatever. If you can't do that, I assume you're lying.
Posted by: brandy on Sep 12, 2007 at 12:35 PM
I hope this doesn't make her afraid of people (white). There are more good ones than bad, and she'll need a lot of love and time to be normal again. God will take care of these creatures in his own way. Prayers to her and her family. TO MARY: PLEASE TAKE SOME SPELLING COURSES.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 12, 2007 at 12:15 PM
i'm a criminal justice student and as much evidence as they have already told, these people will get death. They are no way that a jury will even let these people get away with even life in prison. i'm highly inspired by megan and her courage to let people know that these types of crimes are still being committed.
Posted by: mari on Sep 12, 2007 at 12:01 PM
I am hoping this young woman makes a complete recovery. I am praying for her. These 6 people are disgusting. I heard this story on the national news here and it sickened me. I hope someone there sets up a donation fund people can contribute to for this young lady.
Posted by: Jennifer on Sep 12, 2007 at 11:48 AM
my heart goes out to this young girl and my prayers are with her and her family...
Posted by: Tammy on Sep 12, 2007 at 11:45 AM
I just moved from Chapmanville a few months ago. I moved from there because of the illiteracy, drugs and racism that is there. My daughter is 10 yrs old and has no ideal what racism is, when she seen this story she was in shock because she seen her old home town of Chapmanville, Logan County on the news. It is just so sad what that woman went through and will go through the rest of her life. I really don't think the criminals will understand what they did until they are clean from the years of drug abuse they have and sent to a prison where there is mixture of races in the same jail and then they will learn what a "hate crime" is. My prayers are with the victims of this horrible and embarrassing ordeal. I work in the Charleston area and my co- workers ask me if I knew those people that did that and I can honsetly say that "No I don't thank god". I was ashamed to say that I was from Logan Co. before but this episode is one of the many reasons I feel that way.
Posted by: joyce on Sep 12, 2007 at 11:28 AM
Megan, My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. May God give you the will to get through this difficult time.
Posted by: grace on Sep 12, 2007 at 10:56 AM
i'm sorry for what happen to you megan all our love and lots of prayers goes out to you we think about you all the time. i wish that i could help you some way and to let you no that all people is not like that at all and i hope that god will take care of those people and let them fill all the pain that you have fell this week and from now on and much more!!!!!!! we all love you for all the endicott family.
Posted by: 2 sisters(Proud to be from WV) on Sep 12, 2007 at 10:56 AM
We agree 100% with the people from TN! This was a horrific act,but the way we are being portrayed in WV is unbecoming to us! Things like this can happen anywhere, and they do! Wether it be white or black! We do not raise our children to be prejudice to anyone, there just happens to be some few choice idiots left in this world everywhere! And by the way, has anyone bothered to say that we now have an outstanding African-American principal at our Middle school and our children have the highest respect for him! And to think that people from this state would criticize this way, we are ashamed that you still live here, or to the one who commented is this what my neighbors will be like, maybe you should just go ahead and sale your land! We are not all like this! Racism is everywhere, (caucasion & african americans both get the racism) We hope this young lady fully recovers from this terrible thing that has been done to her and our prayers our with you and your family! God Bless!
Posted by: Jessica on Sep 12, 2007 at 10:52 AM
I just heard about this and my stomach is turning. How could anyone do anything like this? A mother let her own children perform these horrendous acts? This is a terrible thing. It's no wonder why everyone around the world thinks people from WV are imbreads... normal people dont do these kind of things. I can only hope that justice is served here and that these idiots get to go through everything poor Megan went through! My prayers are with you and your family Megan! May you and your family have the strength to get through this!
Posted by: Adrienne on Sep 12, 2007 at 09:44 AM
Let us not forget that Jesus died to save us. He died so that we may live a life that some people may say is hell on earth. These people are an example of Evil that is alive and well. I will not only be praying for the victim and her family but also for the souls of the attackers. I wonder what drives a person to act in such a terrible act? I have to say that I believe that hate was alive nad well. Hate only exists with Ignorance, not geography. People who don't know God, your higher power, whatever you want to call it. We will never fix the legal system, however in the end of this life, these people will have eternity to reep the consequences of their actions. As for Racism, it's a alive nad well. Again, Ignorance breeds Ignorance. These mothers were uneducated..Ignorant souls who somehow became mothers to other ignorant beings. It's amazing how some people even get the chance to procreate. I pray for justice inside those prison walls as they often have a way of settling the score.
Posted by: Katherine on Sep 12, 2007 at 09:40 AM
I could not believe that any human being could be so vile as the ones that tortured Megan. Do these people not have a conscience? Animals don't behave in this manner! I hope with all my heart and soul that Megan & her family can get through this and get on with their lives. Please know Megan that my thoughts and prayers are with you and if there is any justice in this state the monsters that hurt you will get what is coming to them. Good Luck Sweetheart and God Bless You!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Betty on Sep 12, 2007 at 09:40 AM
Send those people to church services at a predominately black churches for the rest of thier lives or until they have earned the forgiveness of the entire congregation.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 12, 2007 at 09:37 AM
This is definitely appauling and ashame. Racism is truly alive in society and definitely in our justice system. There is no question that this is a hate crime. They should be punished to the full extent. Carmen has to live with this for the rest of her life. Prayerfully she will be able to heal and move on. Only God knows and can heal these wounds. I pray they go to jail for life or get the death penalty. Thank God they are not in Jena, Louisianna because then they may get off and the law would have found a way to charge Carmen with a crime! No one has the right to harm anyone because of their color/race/religion. Wake Up America! Wake Up!
Posted by: Michele on Sep 12, 2007 at 09:36 AM
This story brings me to tears. Please Megan know that we pray for you. Hold on to what is dear and to God. Know that not all people are bad. Bless You.
Posted by: sherry on Sep 12, 2007 at 09:29 AM
when I saw this on the news I was sickened. It's so sad that there is such EVIL people in this world. May God be with you both, My prayers are with you,god bless
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 12, 2007 at 09:26 AM
I think it's sad that something like this happened to a young woman. I and I hope that each of the people that did this to her get severely punished. However, according to the friend/mother, who was interviewed stated that she was known for leaving home for extended weeks at a time, therefore missing persons report was never filed. Where are the parents to put their foot down and take control of their young teenage kids? If I ran off from home when I was a teenager, my parent's would have whipped me so hard I wouldn't be able to sit for a week.
Posted by: Cheryl on Sep 12, 2007 at 09:16 AM
This isn't the first time that the police have dealt with the Brewster family. The mother Frankie Brewster had been convicted of killing an elderly woman in 1994 and the son Bobby Brewster shot his father in 1998. Bobby Brewster has also been arrested for attacking his mother with a machete. The police had a stand off with him then. He was also involved with a stabbing that took place not to long ago. The Burton mother and daughter have been involved with drugs for awhile. What I want to know is how these people keep getting away with these crimes. I hate to think that it has taken something like this to happen to finally get these kinds of people off of the streets for good. Please don't let the horrible actions of just a few people tarnish the name of Chapmanville. We have raised our children here and believe it is a good place to live. Our prays are with Megan and her mother.
Posted by: Harrison Bergeron on Sep 12, 2007 at 09:16 AM
First let me say that my thoughts and prayers are with the victim and her family. That being said, does anyone know who alerted police? It sounds like that one mother should NEVER have been released from prison.
Posted by: Teresa on Sep 12, 2007 at 09:02 AM
Megan I am so sorry for what you had to go through. I'm shocked and appalled to hear what happened to you. To know that there are people like that in a state I live in makes me very ashamed. I can only say, not all people in WV are like that. To quote Friedrich Nietzsche "What doesn't kill us makes us stronger." May the love of your family and God make you strong enough to overcome the terrible ordeal you had to face. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Posted by: Jaime- MU Grad on Sep 12, 2007 at 08:41 AM
Through research, I've found that, according to police documents and court record, "the Brewster family & their trailer has a history of violent crime. Bobby Brewster killed his stepfather there @ age 12 & served time in juvenile. In July‘94, Frankie Brewster shot & killed an 84yr-old woman she was looking after, also in the trailer. Frankie, charged w/ 1st-degree murder, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter & served 6 yrs @ a state prison (paroled in 2000). In ‘05, two men fought outside the trailer, ending in a fatal stabbing. In Jan’07, police were again called to the trailer, where they found a man who had been slashed across his abdomen; the man survived & Bobby was a witness in the case.” Unbelievable!! I just hope that the rest of our country has enough sense to realize that not all WV’ians are racist bigots. So many of us are higher-educated, diversity-welcoming members of society! This should not be looked @ as a generalized portrayal of our state's people!
Posted by: rita on Sep 12, 2007 at 08:40 AM
Carmen this is Rita and Lita from cinti. We love you. We are praying for you and your family.I can't believe that something like this can happen to someone I know so well. It makes me feel that no matter how hard we try, hate crimes will always be around. Until we impose stiffer laws,people is going to keep up the stupid stuff.God bless them all.
Posted by: Shelia on Sep 12, 2007 at 08:23 AM
May God bless this family & continue to give them strength through this horrible ordeal. These people should be punished to the full extent of the law. I can only imagine the pain this has caused to this family. God will have his justice for these people. This lady will never forget what happened to her & will probably remember this for the rest of her life. Keep your head & know that you did not do anything to deserve any of this. My prayers are with you. Carmen, you are an old family friend to the Burton/Garrett family & we want you to know that if you need a leg to stand on, a shoulder to cry on, or for someone just to listen, we want you to know that we are here for each of you. God Bless. Sincerely, Shelia Scott aka Shelia Burton-Garrett & Family.
Posted by: anonymouse on Sep 12, 2007 at 07:52 AM
i dont belive it is a hate crime.at all these people has been bad for alongtime. they think they can do anything they want...it could had been a white person as well.we are all very sad over what they have done to Megan we all hate that it has happen but all of our hearts and prays go all out to megans family...just thak god she is alive....BUT IF THE LAWS WILL GO BACK AT LOOK WHAT ALL OF THE BREWSTER's HAVE DONE IN THE PAST.KILL THERE ON FRAILYS.... AND THEY ALL GOT OUT OF JAIL...TO KILL AGAIN GO BACK YEARS AGO...JUST TKE A REAL GOOD LOOK.....we hurt for megan and her famliy we are sick over this but like i said it could had been anyone not just because she was not white...we thank god that she got out alive.this happen at big creeek and i have fraily there to...yes we are afraid.because it could had been one of them as well..so no we are not hate crime people...god made use all we all are humes..BUT WHAT THESE 6 PEOPLE HAS DONE ARE THEY REALLY HUMERS? NO JAIL IS NOT GOOD for them
Posted by: Misty on Sep 12, 2007 at 07:11 AM
Im so sick and tired of people acting like wv is the only place that does this crime open up your eyes people its happening all over the world. Even worse crime than this (some people dont get to live)
Posted by: April on Sep 12, 2007 at 07:03 AM
This is absolutely horrible. My prayers and thoughts are with the family. I agree that the ones who commited this crime should face death penaly. However, WV cannot be blamed for these peoples wrong doings. There are hateful and evil people in every state. I know alot of wonderful and caring people who live in WV. So that being said, peole should not be pointing fingers at WV.
Posted by: Faye on Sep 12, 2007 at 06:58 AM
First of all my prayers are with you and the family. I live aproximately 30 minutes from Logan and I am white but I am not racial at all so please dont think all people from around here are that cruel. You should have never had to go through something like that no one should and its true you cant trust anyone anymore. you would think people would have grown up through out the years and realize you are no different from anyone else. I think Jail is too good for these people maybe something alot crueler and painful than sittin in a jail cell would make them realize what type of people they really are. People now days dont have respect for each other. But please know my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Posted by: Alisa on Sep 12, 2007 at 06:03 AM
I just moved from WV myself, in Feb of this year. To the lady that asked if any Afro-Americans in WV are afraid to send their kids to school.. I will have to tell you this. This was not a hate crime, clearly because the crime that was committed on this poor black lady was done by almost all blacks, and just one white follower. This is not a racial issue at all. We have whites in the state of WV doing just as worse to others. Also, I agree with the other commenter below, that her face, name and voice should have been censored form the public. This may very well have exposed her to yet even more danger. She looks ashamed, embarrassed, and very much so violated as they are filming her. She should be able to go into protection and change her name and location, where this poor young lady can be safe and get on her feet to heal. This is unheard up in rural West Virginia, it used to be such a nice, safe place to live..My prayers are with her and her family.
Posted by: loretta on Sep 12, 2007 at 05:59 AM
I think this is terrible, it is really unthinkable to do this to someone. BLACK OR WHITE!!! or whatever nationality. Racism is alive and very well. whites are also victims!! as well as the others. No ONE is SAFE FROM Ignorance in this country if it decides to show itself in your nieghborhood!!!
Posted by: anonymous on Sep 12, 2007 at 04:36 AM
NOT ALL THE PEOPLE IN WV ARE REDNECKS OR STUPID!! AND TO M:YES..THE BOY BOBBY HAS BEEN CONVICTED OF OTHER CRIMES!!
Posted by: Vicki on Sep 12, 2007 at 02:58 AM
I'm waiting to see just what will become of this investigation. These are very sick individuals that need to face the consequences for such SICK behavior. Let's all watch and see what happens. My prayers go out to the the family. As a mother myself I can't imagine the impact this devastating experience would have on my childs life. God Bless.
Posted by: Mike Egnor on Sep 12, 2007 at 02:45 AM
I feel horrible for this poor girl.. No one on earth deserve to have something this awful happen to them.. Weather people know it or not.. There is NO SUCH THING as a hate crime in the state of WV. we need to take a stand with the capital and get one put into place... My thoughts and prayers are with you megan and your whole family.. God bless U. Also, i want to know why no one in them mainstream media covered the beating and death of a gay man in Milton WV that just happened last week? The 2 people who beat a man til he slipped into a coma and died in the hospital. Guess what they were charged with... Assault.. They have pending murder charges on them now. However, that isn't really a solid charge becuase he didn't die til after they left. Nice little slap on the hand huh? What is wrong with our justice system. I am sickened by the media not convering this. But this story made CBS evening news.. However nothing about Mr. Ricky Williams. he was only 45 years old.
Posted by: na on Sep 12, 2007 at 02:25 AM
I know these people a little & what I know is that they are trouble since day one people dont fool around with these people much at all they drink all the time. but Im glad u made it throug ok keep getting better some of my friends can't believe of what happen here it's got a lot of people upset over this so get well & put them away.
Posted by: Andy on Sep 11, 2007 at 11:47 PM
I have nothing but the highest respect for Megan and her family and I don't even personally know them. God bless Megan for her courage under all of this. May she recover quick and may the people who did this be brought to justice NOW!!!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 11, 2007 at 11:28 PM
I just want to say that I am embarrassed to say that I am originally from WV. I left there after college because of the ignorance that resides there. My thoughts and prayers are with this family.
Posted by: samantha on Sep 11, 2007 at 11:26 PM
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. TRUST IN THE LORD AND YOU WILL BE JUST FINE AND THESE EVIL PEOPLE WILL PAY THEY DESERVE TO BE PUNISHED TO THE FULLEST. LOVE AND PRAYERS, SAMANTHA
Posted by: kay on Sep 11, 2007 at 11:25 PM
just wanted to say im so sorry for all the things you have went through i cant even imagen the pain you fell just wanted to say im praying for you hope you get well soonhope to hear more news about your recovery
Posted by: bernadette on Sep 11, 2007 at 11:19 PM
hi i was rised in mingo co and i cant belive there are ppl like that here..not all of us are that way..hope she gets better soon.
Posted by: jackie on Sep 11, 2007 at 11:18 PM
i am very sorry about your daughter if i can help in anyway let me know i went through being raped taped tied to a couch before i thought i was gonnadie
Posted by: B.J. on Sep 11, 2007 at 11:14 PM
Megan, I am praying for your full recovery and that God will heal the scars on the inside also. I cried when I read your story, but I know God was a plan for you because He rescued you. Thank God for the police and the person who tipped them off. You and your family are in my prayers and I have emailed your story to all of my friends so they will pray for you too. God Bless You. I am so sorry. This world is sick, sick, sick.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 11, 2007 at 10:42 PM
sorry, but even if the death penalty were possible in WV, it is unconstitutional to impose the death penalty for any crime where the victim wasn't also killed. US Supreme Court Decision, so even if this crime happened in another state they would not be able to get the death penalty. and all those upset over the coverage this is getting and saying white people wouldn't get this much coverage.....get a life. this young lady was brutally raped, tortured, mutulated, made to eat feces.... and you are complaining about something else not getting attention. Give me a break. Pathetic
Posted by: Jayne on Sep 11, 2007 at 10:21 PM
To Megan & Carmen, Our prayers are with you both and may God strengthen you. Only He can wipe this pain away. My husband went to school with you Carmen. It is disgusting that there is such sick people in this world and that 6 of the vilest are here in WV. God loves you both.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 11, 2007 at 10:12 PM
God Bless Her. Anywhere we can send donations? Or make a donation in her honor?
Posted by: M on Sep 11, 2007 at 09:54 PM
I HAVE A COUPLE OF QUESTIONS.... DID THESE PEOPLE KNOW THIS GIRL? HOW DID IT COME ABOUT THAT SHE WAS IN THEIR HOUSE? HAVE THESE PEOPLE EVER BEEN CONVICTED OF ANY OTHER CRIMES ( DRUGS???) I JUST MOVED FROM WV AND AM TRYING TO KEEP UP WITH THE NEWS UP THERE. THIS REMINDS ME OF THE MOVIE " A TIME TO KILL" NO WONDER PEOPLE THINK OF WVIANS AS "REDNECK" AND "STUPID" IF SOMEONE COULD ANSWER MY QUESTIONS, IT WOULD BE GREAT! ARE ANY OTHER AFRICAN AMERICANS IN THE AREA AFRAID, OR SCARED TO SEND THEIR KIDS TO SCHOOL?
Posted by: Jon on Sep 11, 2007 at 09:51 PM
These 6 deserve the death penalty. I do hope they turn the case over to the Feds so they could possibly face the death penalty. Perhaps this would have never happened if the legal system would have never released the mother, Frankie, from prison in 2004. She was already serving time for shooting a elderly lady 4 times and killing her in 1994 according to the Charleston Daily Mail. Her plea deal led her to plead the lesser charge of voluntary manslaughter. Perhaps the fault could be layed at the feet of the parole board that released Ma' Brewster and the prosecutor that gave her the lesser plea deal. Just a thought...
Posted by: jennifer on Sep 11, 2007 at 09:47 PM
This case is very similar to the Knoxville,TN case in which a white couple was raped,tortured,and killed by 6 black people. It was never aired or covered by any major news organization. Racism is alive and well in the media!
Posted by: Tina on Sep 11, 2007 at 09:33 PM
I first heard of this story today. My work schedule does not allow for much television. It turned my stomach. What kind of person are you to do this to someone?! My thoughts and prayers are with the family. The people who did this should be punished as if they were one step below Charles Manson!! Teach them a lesson. Let them know what they done was wrong. I thought the issue of black and white was over a long time ago. Skin color means nothing, its the person they are on the inside that matters. I just cant believe this, I am having a hard time with this situation. I can only imagine the family and what they are going through. May the good lord look down on the family and take them under his wings. May he help them heal and never have to deal with something like this again. GOD Bless!
Posted by: MARY on Sep 11, 2007 at 09:29 PM
I THINK IT WAS AWFUL TO DO THIS TO SOMEONE IT IS A SHAM THAT THAT GIRL HAD TO GO THROUGH SOMETHING THIS HORRIBLE WELL IM A SHAMED TO SAY IM FROM WEST VIRGINIA
Posted by: Dawn on Sep 11, 2007 at 09:05 PM
It dont matter what kind of crime it is. This crime no worse than any other crime that innocent people has to go through. The problem is that our laws are no good. People that kill people gets out of jail It just makes me so mad that innocent people gets hurt because of our laws and just because this is concinder a hAte crime lets see if any law changes.If they dont put CHILD MOLESTER away for good why does anybody think these people will be lock up for good
Posted by: Kiersten on Sep 11, 2007 at 08:36 PM
You're in my family's love & prayers, Megan!
Posted by: Sickened on Sep 11, 2007 at 08:33 PM
This is disgusting!! I don't understand why murderers are put back out on the street. West Virginia needs the death penalty. My prayers are with Megan & her family. God Bless You!!
Posted by: Charles on Sep 11, 2007 at 08:25 PM
This is one of thhe most discussting crimes tht I have heard!!These people should be punished to the fullest extent of the law. However, I do not think this a characteristic of most West Virginians.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 11, 2007 at 08:05 PM
its going to be a case here of mississippi burning folks....thank God she still alive but remember this is going to be torture itself to heal from this horrible event....the law should consider that as well dont you think
Posted by: Karen on Sep 11, 2007 at 07:40 PM
I want to tell Megan that we are praying for her. I want to say that this occurance makes me ashamed to be human. A person would like to think we have evolved beyond this point, but I guess we haven't. I think if the FBI files hate crime charges against these "people", they could get the death penalty. They deserve no better. If not I hope the general population of the prison where they end up has a large percentage of very vengeful people, who will treat these 6 the way they treated this child. May God bless you Megan, and Carman
Posted by: Grace on Sep 11, 2007 at 07:36 PM
What makes it a "hate crime" is that racial hatred was the motivating factor in the crime, not robbery or a dispute or anything of that nature. She was targeted because she is African American. That's the difference between this crime and the others that have been mentioned.
Posted by: Debbie on Sep 11, 2007 at 07:21 PM
God bless you Megan. I hope you are feeling better soon. God will punish those people involved in his own way but the law should punish them as well they should never be allowed out of prison. The biggest problem in the world to day is that people have fallen from the grace of GOD. While remove GOD from this country we are letting the evil in.. that what these people are pure evil..
Posted by: sherry on Sep 11, 2007 at 06:49 PM
your in our prayers stay strong & put these people away where they belong they R TROUBLE!! it's sad to hear that kind of thing so stay strong & keep the LORD with u
Posted by: Ashlee on Sep 11, 2007 at 06:21 PM
I just want to say that Megan is a very tough and special girl. She will now always hold a special place in my heart. I can't believe everything that she had to go through. When I see her in these pictures and on the news, it really breaks my heart. She is a very beautiful young lady, and she needs to be strong. As far as the people that done this to her, I think they deserve to be locked in a small room together, and they shouldn't have anything to eat and dring besides pee and poop. They need to be put through hell, just the way that they done her. Nobody deserves to be treated that way. I think Megan should know that her torcher that she went through has touched alot of us, and she is in our prayers. I hope the best for her, and the people that done this to her, I hope nothing but the absolute complete worse punishment that we can give them. They deserve it.
Posted by: Appalled on Sep 11, 2007 at 06:01 PM
Are these criminals the people Hollywood studied before filming Wrong Turn, or The Hills Have Eyes, or SAW??? Seriously, this is the most disgusting, gruesome crime I've ever heard of in this area. It sickens me! I think they've watched too many movies like the ones I mentioned. They must be demon possessed, because only Satan himself could corrupt someone's mind to do something like this. There just aren't enough words to describe it. I echo many others in saying I pray time will heal the physical and emotional wounds Megan has. But I fear nothing will ever take away her pain. God bless her and her family!
Posted by: Helen on Sep 11, 2007 at 05:41 PM
My prayers go out to Megan and her family. I am appalled at the horrific inhuman treatment she endured. This is the 21st century, have we progressed at all? We are all human beings. What kind of minds did this to another person? God Bless this young woman and her family.
Posted by: lynn on Sep 11, 2007 at 05:37 PM
To the victim of this awful crime, just wanted u to know you are in our thoughts and prayers,not all people in the world are bad like these 6.God will take care of people like this!!!Stay strong and we will pray for you!
Posted by: Brittney on Sep 11, 2007 at 05:11 PM
Hey,its so great that your survived through this. Im just 14 an i went through the same thing,and i made it. You are a very strong woman. & im a mixed girl in the 10th grade and i know how hard it is to be black. I get treated like this too. But,im glad youir still on this earth. Your a very veyr strong woman and dont let nobody tell you anything different. : )
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 11, 2007 at 04:34 PM
This is so sad, my thoughts and prayers are with Megan & her family! She will have to carry this with her for the rest of her life. What is this world coming to? But a better question is - DO YOU SEE WHY PEOPLE MAKE FUN OF WEST VIRGINIA? It's so called HUMAN BEINGS like THIS that do these horrible things to a person! It sounds as if it came from a movie - I mean, how in the heck can someone have the heart to do those kinds of things, let alone take another human to a place that they know something like that will happen? It's not my place to judge these horrible people & their actions, but I seriously hope they get more than just 5 years in jail, 2 years on probation & a slap on the wrist (or whatever the sentence is). If they don't recieve a harsher sentence, I will literally be afraid now - because this will show ANYONE what kind of crime they can commit & get by with hardly nothing at all! And again, my thoughts & prayers are with Megan & her family!! God Bless you, Megan!
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 11, 2007 at 04:27 PM
This story is UNBELIEVEABLE!!!! How coul these individuals possibly participate in such a horrific crime!!! I know these people have to be ill, but this is unexeceptable!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Our prayers are with the young girl!!! The assailants deserve NO justice!!!!
Posted by: Rachel on Sep 11, 2007 at 04:24 PM
Megan stay strong were all praying for you!! How could anyone do a thing like this to someone
Posted by: Greg on Sep 11, 2007 at 04:17 PM
Now do you see why we need to overhaul our legal system and bring back the death penalty. You follow this story and see if they don't get some plea deal. Why is it we can vote on table games but we can't have a vote on having the death penalty and doing away with plea bargaining.
Posted by: Mongoloid on Sep 11, 2007 at 04:08 PM
I just bought land in W. Va. Are these what my neighbors are going to be like? Lord help us. Prayers to Megan and her mom.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 11, 2007 at 03:52 PM
So the Jenna "6" get charged with aggravated 2nd degree attempted murder and get million dollar bails for a school yard fight, and these folks get charged with battery and sexual assault and get 100K bails? Does this not sound like racial injustice?
Posted by: susie on Sep 11, 2007 at 03:32 PM
I just wanted to comment on this. Here in TN we had a similar case to this one except the colors were reversed and the two young people were brutally tortured (raped and mutilated) and murdered. This case has reached national media (the WV case) where as the one here in Knoxville barely got mentioned on the local news. What is wrong with the world today. I feel that the people that did this (WV case) deserve comparably the same punishment as the people that did the horrific acts in TN no more no less. I am glad that the girl was able to get out and is on the road to recovery. I just wish the same could have been true for Christian and Newsom - the couple from Knoxville TN.
Posted by: Key on Sep 11, 2007 at 03:28 PM
It doesn’t matter if the mother and daughter gave the media permission to publish their names and pictures. The station didn’t have to go tracking them down and asking if they could use their names so as to be the first ones to get the news story. Why couldn’t the station just have left the video and names out of story and left them people alone. The media could have also done an interview without showing the victim. The media is just not empathetic anymore. To me it just seems like they’re all about getting the story and being right up in your face when you’re at your emotional worst. Nobody wants a camera shoved up in their face when they’re crying. Sometimes the media needs to just step back and make the right moral decision to leave certain stories alone and not play on the emotions of people when they’re down.
Posted by: Carly on Sep 11, 2007 at 03:27 PM
Let this be a lesson to all mothers. Teach your children well, as they will follow in your footsteps. I lead my children by example, and unfortunately these mothers did too. I have to ask myself if the two mothers are proud of what they have created in their twisted children? Megan, my families thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Please know that not everyone hates, and may God's blessing shine down on you and yours.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 11, 2007 at 03:11 PM
To RC: So you believe that a young woman who has been through all this is able to make a decision like that right now? I wonder if you'd give permission to be on television and the internet at a time like that and not perhaps regret it later. Journalistic integrity has nothing to do with permission. The media should not have even asked permission. They should not put personal information on a crime victim no matter what. Your problem is that you are so used to hyped-up shlock passing as news, that you don't know when something is inappropriate and damaging to someone.
Posted by: Sadie on Sep 11, 2007 at 03:08 PM
Each of these people need to be in jail. No plea deals either they all should go to jail BUT I do not agree with the "hate crime because she is black and they are white" All crime is because of hate and this poor girl would be just as scarred if the people were black. All crime should be punished the same.
Posted by: Suzie on Sep 11, 2007 at 03:05 PM
Posted by: Anonymous This is just crazy. It scares me to think of all those sick people in WV. Ill keep this girl and her family in my prayers. Stay Strong. DO NOT REFER TO "ALL THOSE SICK PEOPLE IN WV" AS THOUGH YOU THINK EVERYONE IN WV IS SICK. I WOULD BE WILLING TO BET THAT THERE ARE FEWER "SICK" PEOPLE IN WV THAN IN ANY OTHER STATE IN THE UNION.
Posted by: someone that cares on Sep 11, 2007 at 03:03 PM
I can feel the fear of this family,I too have a child that runs the streets and hangs with the wrong people,I spend many days and nights in fear that a knock on my door is going to bring bad news,,,What has logan county became? We use to feel safe here,even sleep with our doors open,,Now we live in fear of what these people will do,
Posted by: suzie on Sep 11, 2007 at 03:02 PM
I hope they decide to file hate crime charges in addition to the other charges! And of course, I always think that the guilty should be treated the same way they treated their victims. Megan, my family and I are praying for you and yours.
Posted by: Christina on Sep 11, 2007 at 02:48 PM
Megan, we are praying for you 1,000 miles away! Stay strong, sweetheart!
Posted by: Amy on Sep 11, 2007 at 02:36 PM
As a mother of 2 young children I am speechless This is horrible and I wish this mother and daughter the best of luck and my prayers are with them!!
Posted by: RC on Sep 11, 2007 at 02:35 PM
Reply to Anonymous: The mother and daughter gave the media agencies permission to use their names and pictures for the story. Perhaps you should find this kind of thing out before lashing out at the media. I hope the people who did this to Ms. Williams are put away for life and experience what they put her through.
Posted by: Teresa on Sep 11, 2007 at 02:33 PM
THIS SICKENS ME PERSONALLY I THINK WV NEEDS TO BRING BACK THE DEATH PENELTY !!!!!! FOR PEOPLE THAT DOES HATE CRIMES OR ANY OTHER CRIMES WHEN THEY ARE GUILTY. I FEEL SO SORRY FOR THE LADY THAT LIVED THREW THAT NIGHT MARE OF LIVING HELL SHE WILL NEVER NEVER FORGET IT FOR THE REST OF HER LIFE. GOD BLESS HER AND HER FAMILY HOPEFULLY TIME WILL HEAL.
Posted by: concerned and scared on Sep 11, 2007 at 02:16 PM
It is a shame to believe that we have people still out there doing these things in this day an age. What is even worst they proably don't think they done anything wrong. They should hold this as a hate crime. It would be if the colors where turn around. This should not be just a slap on the hand. I know our jails are full, but the crimes theses days are not light. I Pray for the Healing of this Family.
Posted by: Renee' on Sep 11, 2007 at 01:57 PM
Those people will get their Karma now. They are not toghether now and it will be their turn now. Sonder how they will like it??? Do unto others and you would like them to do unto you. Thats the biblical golden rule. Thats whats wrong with the world today. I hope her heart heals and I'm so sorry to her and her family.
Posted by: Joe, Chicago, IL on Sep 11, 2007 at 01:54 PM
It is a sad state of affairs when in the USA, the greatest country in the world, we continue to have racism and hate crimes occurring. I hope those who committed these crimes pay for what they've done to this young lady and to the state of WV.
Posted by: george triggs on Sep 11, 2007 at 01:48 PM
why would they bypass the regional jail here and put them in the western regional jail is it too protect them or too hide them
Posted by: concerned citizen on Sep 11, 2007 at 01:39 PM
I'm so sorry for what happened to that girl. Those people should be charged with a hate crime and stay in jail a long long time. Two of those woman are mothers and should be ashamed of themselves!!! Where are all the morals and compassion today. Its nothing but pure EVIL and CRUELTY. This outrages and DISGUSTS me!! We all know who you are now and we citizens turn our back on you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I know I'm emotional but someone should be!
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 11, 2007 at 01:27 PM
Thanks for providing the public with the names, faces, and locations of the victim and her mother. Way to conduct responsible journalism. I hate to see this poor young women victimized further by your shoddy journalism.
Posted by: K on Sep 11, 2007 at 01:23 PM
As a Mother I am speechless. My Prayers are with Megan and her family.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 11, 2007 at 01:13 PM
This is just crazy. It scares me to think of all those sick people in WV. Ill keep this girl and her family in my prayers. Stay Strong.
Posted by: Key on Sep 11, 2007 at 01:05 PM
I don't think that WSAZ should have aired the attack victim live on the web. I thought that was a poor taste of judgment. If an interview was granted with the mom, then the mother should have been taken to another room and interviewed without the daughter, because it was obvious from the footage that the victim was uncomfortable. It just wasn't right, especially all the close up shots of her injuries and whatnot. It's not the best call that WSAZ could have made.
Posted by: Tara Drew on Sep 11, 2007 at 12:54 PM
I'm so very sorry about what these people of done to this poor girl..I just want everybody in that family to know that not all people in Logan are this way, I was raised in Chapmanville my whole life at the age of 20 I started to date Black men and had to deal with all sorts of stuff people tried to run me and the male off the road and wreck us. They talked so much bad stuff about my family for allowing it yo go on. But I never in a million yrs that people i have known over the yrs would do something like this to anyone,,I attend school with two of the males and it blows my mind ..I guess you really never know what people will do it pays not to put your trust nobody... I will be praying for the family and I hope that they get justice and those who were involed pay for that act...
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 11, 2007 at 12:53 PM
I hope the people responsible for this horrific act against this poor girl are punished to the fullest extent. My prayers are with her and her family.
Posted by: Jeanine on Sep 11, 2007 at 12:39 PM
The individuals who did this should be treated the exact same way.
Posted by: John on Sep 11, 2007 at 12:38 PM
How is is humanly possible for a mother to say it is not uncommon for a child to disappear for 1-2 weeks? Do parents not keep in touch with their children in this day and age?
Posted by: Melinda on Sep 11, 2007 at 12:36 PM
These people are no better than terrorists. Their acts are just like those of Saddam himself. How can this happen in WV, USA, today? I thought all of the struggles that we went through after the civil war and up through the 60's and 70's had closed the book on this kind of behavior. I pray that Megan and her family find the strength to heal and move on. I also pray that the judge and jury punish these monsters appropriately. Remember the justice served to Saddam? Perhaps that needs to be done in this case. I don't believe the victims and their families as well as the rest of our society should have to pay for these poor excuses for human beings to be housed in prison for the rest of their lives. It is chilling to think that in the year 2007, as we lose our soldiers everyday fighting a war against people of this mentality,that they can and do exist in our own neighborhood.
Posted by: Stefanie on Sep 11, 2007 at 12:24 PM
how did she get to the home?
Posted by: Raven on Sep 11, 2007 at 12:17 PM
Why? I just do not understand how one person could do this to another. We are all of one race, the human race! I have always taught my children that everyone has feeling, familes, and lives, no matter what their race. This person will carry this with her the rest of her life. All because of some very sick people. They should be locked away for the rest of their lives!
Posted by: ANONYMOUS on Sep 11, 2007 at 12:09 PM
I HOPE THE FBI DOES ALL THEY CAN TO PROSECUTE EVERYONE ON THESE MEAN PEOPLE TO THE FULLEST, THEY DESERVE THE DEATH PENALTY.
Posted by: Sad on Sep 11, 2007 at 12:08 PM
This is a sad situation that people can be so cruel to torture someone like this. It seems like know one really knows the whole story about how this girl ended up at this house. It does'nt make sense to me. She said her friend took her there. Did her friend know what was going on? Did her friend just leave her there? Did she really know these people? Know matter of what the truth known is these people are sick for doing this to someone and they need to go to prison for this!! And I hope and pray that the truth comes out!!!!!!!!
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