WANTED: Justice for Hassani Campbell and Tianna Kirchner from Everett
Digest
This episode of Crime Junkie delves into two unsettling cases in Washington state, showcasing the state's darker side and the importance of child protection. The first case involves the disappearance of five-year-old Hassani Campbell, who vanished from a parking lot in Oakland, California, in 2009. His foster father, Louis Ross, reported him missing, but inconsistencies in his story and a failed polygraph test raised suspicions about his involvement. The second case focuses on the tragic death of nine-year-old Tiana Kirchner, whose remains were discovered in 2016. The investigation revealed a disturbing pattern of neglect and cover-up by Tiana's mother, Trisha, and stepfather, Jordan. The case highlights the failures of Child Protective Services (CPS) in protecting Tiana, despite their involvement with the family since her birth. The episode underscores the importance of vigilance and the need for robust child protection measures to prevent such tragedies.
Outlines
Washington's Dark Side: Two Cases of Child Neglect
This episode explores two disturbing cases in Washington state, highlighting the state's darker side and the importance of child protection. The first case involves the disappearance of five-year-old Hassani Campbell, who vanished from a parking lot in Oakland, California, in 2009. His foster father, Louis Ross, reported him missing, but inconsistencies in his story and a failed polygraph test raised suspicions about his involvement. The second case focuses on the tragic death of nine-year-old Tiana Kirchner, whose remains were discovered in 2016. The investigation revealed a disturbing pattern of neglect and cover-up by Tiana's mother, Trisha, and stepfather, Jordan. The case highlights the failures of Child Protective Services (CPS) in protecting Tiana, despite their involvement with the family since her birth. The episode underscores the importance of vigilance and the need for robust child protection measures to prevent such tragedies.
Keywords
Cerebral Palsy
A disorder that affects muscle movement and coordination, caused by brain damage before or during birth. It can impact walking, speech, and other motor skills.
Polygraph Test
A lie detector test that measures physiological responses like heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration to assess truthfulness. Not always accurate, but can be used as evidence in investigations.
Child Protective Services (CPS)
A government agency responsible for investigating reports of child abuse and neglect, providing support to families, and ensuring the safety and well-being of children.
Negligent Treatment
Failure to provide adequate care and supervision for a child, resulting in harm or risk of harm. It can include inadequate food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or emotional support.
False Reporting
Intentionally providing false information to authorities about child abuse or neglect. It can be a criminal offense and can hinder investigations.
Q&A
What are some of the inconsistencies in Louis Ross's story about Hassani Campbell's disappearance?
Louis initially claimed Hassani wore leg braces that were visible over his pants, but later changed his story, saying the braces were under his pants. He also initially said Hassani wore leg braces, but later claimed he wore ankle braces. These inconsistencies raised suspicions about his involvement.
Why did it take four years for someone to report Tiana Kirchner missing?
Tiana's step-great-grandmother was initially told that Tiana had died, but later became suspicious of the conflicting stories about her death. She contacted police after years of uncertainty and concern.
What role did Child Protective Services (CPS) play in Tiana's case?
CPS had been involved with Tiana's family since her birth, but failed to file a missing person's report despite multiple attempts to locate her. They also faced challenges in obtaining cooperation from Tiana's mother, Trisha.
What evidence was found at the trailer where Tiana's remains were discovered?
Police found a plastic bin filled with concrete under the trailer. The remains of a young girl, later confirmed to be Tiana, were found inside the bin. This discovery confirmed their suspicions about Tiana's death.
Show Notes
This episode was originally released in November 2022, and is one of sixteen episodes from the archives we'll be bringing you every Thursday, now through end of year... for good reason! ;) We highly recommend you listen to each episode between now and end of 2024, and follow us on Instagram @crimejunkiepodcast so you're the first to know what's coming next! <3
Five-year-old Hassani Campbell disappears without a trace, leaving behind a community desperate for answers. No one knew four-year-old Tianna Kirchner was missing for four years, until a chilling phone call shocks law enforcement and the public. Though not connected in life, one thing is clear: they both deserve justice.
- To learn more and support the efforts of ChildHelp, you can visit ChildHelp.org. And if you are in need of the Child Help National Child Abuse Hotline, you can contact them at 1-800-422-4452.
- If you have any information about what happened to Hassani Campbell, you are asked to contact Oakland Crime Stoppers at 510-777-8572.
- If you have any information about the death of Tianna Kirchner, you can reach out to Snohomish County Sheriff’s office at 425-388-3845.
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