[Susan9608]

Unfortunately, Charlie has undergone a terrible ordeal here in Dallas. I didn't want to say anything until the situation was resolved, for fear of setting off a horrific chain of events that would end with Charlie's ultimate demise.

Charlie was kidnapped. Yes. I received a random note approxmiate two weeks ago, with heavy demands. While worried, my husband and I held out for a proof of life. We finally got a picture of Charlie looking tattered and weary, but alive. Through tremendous sacrifice, we met the demands and made the drop.

At that point, the kidnapper refused to release Charlie, and it became a hostage situation. We had to call in a hostage negotiater. Charlie finally made a very daring esape, one that put his life in extreme danger, but ultimately led him to freedom. He escaped with a few minor injuries but is otherwise unharmed.

Naturally, he is weary and skittish after such an ordeal. He has been deposed by all the proper authorities regarding the incident. Unfortunately, Charlie's captors remain at large. Some feel it's best for Charlie to enter the Witness Protection Program, but Charlie wants to continue on his travels. He feels when he reaches California, he can assume a new identity.

He managed to get a few photos from inside the area he was held in. He also intends to write a full account of his experience and publish it as part of his memoir.

For the time being, though, he wants to go under the assumed name of "Otis."

Charlie will travel from an undisclosed Dallas location within the next 2 days to the next person on this list. I dare not say more.