Michelle Parker, 33, of Orlando was last seen Nov. 17. She has been missing since that day. It was the day a previously taped episode of “The People’s Court” aired of the case between her and 40-year-old Dale Smith, her ex-fiance. “The People’s Court” episode involved a dispute over a $5,000 engagement ring.
Parker’s abandoned black Hummer was found in an apartment complex off Vineland Road in west Orlando. Parker is a mother of three children.
Parker and Smith are the parents of 3-year-old twins. She also has an 11-year-old child from a previous relationship.
The only clue, other than the abandoned vehicle, is Parker’s cell phone. Family members said Parker’s brother sent her a text message asking where she was and the reply came back “Waterford.” However, investigators said cell tower records indicated that Parker was never near Waterford.
Chief Paul Rooney said at a news conference Monday that Parker’s ex-fiance, Dale Smith, is being investigated. Smith has refused to take a polygraph test. Police said Parker had a history of violence in her relationship with her ex-fiance.
Bay News 9’s Orlando affiliate News 13 has learned that Parker’s family has retained the services of Tampa law firm Morgan and Morgan to help them navigate through the legal process.
Family members have said they don’t believe Smith had anything to do with Parker’s disappearance, but Saturday, a SWAT team raided a home where Smith was said to frequently stay. It remains unclear what exactly led to that SWAT raid.
Parker’s family members said they understand people have to work during the day and might not be able to volunteer, but asked everyone watching and reading online to be vigilant.
CrimeLine is still offering its own reward of $5,000 for information leading to Michelle Parker. If you know anything, call (800) 423-TIPS (8477). You are allowed to remain anonymous.
