.
.
Since first writing about Thomas Pate and the death of his wife, Micah, I have read articles from sites to keep abreast of what was happening in the case. (Of course, that’s strictly from the author’s point of view, since we should take no media article as the truth of the matter. However, many are informational assistance for the public.) Last year I was angry that the state allowed Pate to bond out; I was more angry that they allowed him to leave the state and go reside with his father, work, and be otherwise a free man.
Now I am concerned for Micah’s justice. Back when Thomas first reported his wife missing (April 30, 2009) and LE questioned him, he only wanted to talk with his father. LE agreed to allow it and Thomas finally told the investigators, in dad’s presence, where Micah’s body was at. The discussion was, of course, taped; Thomas told his dad that he was out with Micah at Loosahatchie River and they were going to shoot her gun. She walked in front of the gun; the shooting was an accident. What an odd scenario to recall since she was shot in the back of the head. Thomas went on to say that he asked if she were okay but she didn’t answer; he threw the gun in the river and took off. Allegedly during his interview, dad asked Thomas about an affair he was having, his cocaine use and alcohol; dad wanted to know if Micah knew about them. All Thomas would say is, ‘I don’t know.’ Thomas also, allegedly, told dad and LE that he had gotten off cocaine and alcohol a few years earlier but admitted he had been drinking again lately.
Now, it seems, the defense has asked for the interview to be withheld from jurors because Thomas’s dad was acting as an agent of the police when he convinced him to tell what happened to Micah. They, the defense, are saying his dad was using psychological pressure to get Thomas to confess, therefore, Thomas made the statements involuntarily. I really am not understanding the mind-set of the defense with that one; it also seems when dad asked Thomas, ‘did you kill Micah?’ Thomas said no. After he confessed to his version of how her death went down, he kept repeating it was an accident. Hmm, seems parts of the confession would help Thomas at trial. So, what defense will they use to keep Thomas out of prison for the rest of his natural life? It was an accident but we aren’t going to tell you how the accident happened? Ignore all the state puts forth since it’s all circumstantial ignorance on the part of law enforcement?
The prosecutor said that they had given Thomas Pate the Miranda; she reminded the court that he, Pate, was the one who asked to speak with his dad. I stand with the state on this one. That it was an accidental shooting just can’t find its way into a believable scenario in my mind. Micah was shoeless and the bottoms of her socks were clean. Yet, he wants us to believe she stepped in front of the gun while he was pointing it at a target, with his finger on the trigger, and turned her back to him?
We will learn on June 11, 2010 if the judge will throw out the confession in Pate’s first-degree murder trial. While we wait for that ruling, although he is wearing a GPS ankle bracelet, Thomas is still free to work with his dad, go to football games and play in a basketball league. I wonder, as I wait, if Thomas is in touch with his girlfriend. Yes. He allegedly admitted having one during his interview.
Thomas Pate’s trial was reset for March 07, 2011.
my previous post on Pate:
http://tigresspenssurmisals.blogspot.com/2009/05/current-events-in-news.html
http://tigresspenssurmisals.blogspot.com/2009/05/micah-is-dead-her-killer-is-free-to.html
a couple articles used in my surmisals:
http://www.myfoxmemphis.com/dpp/news/local/042210-pate's-murder-confession-heard-in-court
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2010/apr/22/bartlett-man-seeks-keep-taped-statement-murder-tri/?partner=RSS
Her socks being clean is suspicious! I can't see anyone turning their back to a gun aimed at them unless they were forced.
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to thank you for following this case. We know some of Micah's family (grandparents, uncles, parents), but we're not close enough to be kept "in the loop".. I was just wondering how things were evolving with the trial and all, and stumbled upon this blog.
ReplyDeleteAgain, thanks.
The one thing I pray for is justice for Micah. I simply can not see accidental shooting in all I have read of this case. I think this is a case of deliberate premeditated murder; I could be wrong in that assertion but if I am, I'll admit to it.
ReplyDeleteI pray for Micah's family and friends often.
He is guilty and so are all of those close to him who are helping him to attempt to get away with Micah's murder...
ReplyDeleteso sad. Micah should not be RIP in heaven early, not like this. and worse, her so called "husband,killer, abuser, no good cheatin POS should have not gotten only 25 yrs. he will be out as i heard on tv show Your Worst Nightmare earlier, he will be out at only what? late 40s, or early fifties. that is an older person, but NOT OLD.Not at all, so that is a sad thing to see. He should have gotten NATURAL LIFE IN PRISON WITHOUT PAROLE or DEATH ROW. In other astute prudent countries, you have LESS murder, and less rape premise on you're going to be punished by death, period, (if found guilty) and yet in America, our beloved U.S.A., you're able to kill like this and get out 1 day. It's sickening. May she continue to rip and live through the happiest memories from those who unlike her killer, but by those who truly care and love her.PATE should never get out to see the free world, even if he has another long 18 yrs or so to do.He should not be able to be free like that at early 50s. Not right.#NoJustice3Micah
Deletefrom:
morgan farantino
@ facebook's victim page for
amber duncan wilson,
and others who are like micah
who did not have a fair chance in life
to live a full great healthy wonderful happy life."
This was not justice at all. PATE should have gotten death row or
life in prison.
Til' the U.S.A. court system allow the punishment to fit ones crime i think it will continue to sadly happen. MAY MICAH continue rip.
God bless us all.
Anonymous,
ReplyDeleteThank you for commenting.
I agree that Thomas is guilty. His defense apparenntly is going with the accidental shooting and letting the chips fall where they may with his leaving her there on the riverbank and reporting her missing. They will say he was so distraught he wasn't thinking, I guess.
I personally can not see the going shoot her gun angle either. Micah was shoeless. I've been on many riverbanks and wouldn't go to one shoeless and I can't anyone doing so either.
Nor can I picture her walking in front of a loaded gun and turning her back either. Quite a lot doesn't add up to me with this caseand his story of how she died.
I just hope the judge doesn't throw out the confession- it's pivotal to the case in my mind right now. But surely LE has other incriminating evidence that can give jurors reason to render a just verdict for Micah.
Joran van der Sloot, Thomas Pate; what is the difference in these two men?
ReplyDeleteYou sure have had me thinking with your post question of the difference between Thomas and Joran, Anonymous. And I have been trying to put my thoughts on it down on paper to answer you. I can see the likeness but I can also see the difference in the two also. I will try and explain why in a future post. It's in the works. I am not a lawyer, journalist or profiler, I am a blogger with speculation as my excuse. lol
ReplyDeleteThank you for the comment. Not only did you set my mind to thinking but you made me proud that you felt the piece deserved a comment. I appreciate all commentors on my blog thoughts.
I do not yet know if the judge will allow the confession to stay in. I hope he does. I feel the jury should hear all of it. One thing for sure, we will know when the trial starts in Aug.
ReplyDeleteI pray this trial will be carried live via a local feed too.
I was a close friend of Micah's and I have been following as much news as I can online. With the trial a week away, what is the best way to follow it? Are you aware if it will be live or on an internet feed of some kind? I live in another state now and I am anxious for some closure and justice for the sweetest person I have ever known. Thanks
ReplyDeleteAnonymous,
ReplyDeleteI have written to several of the media outlets to inquire if they were going to have a live feed to the trial. I havn't received replies. So,I do not know yet if one will. I am sure they will have updates in the local papers and/or the local TV stations on it as it progresses.
If I hear or discover any media will carry the trial live so viewers can watch , I will add the feed here on my blog under this post or make a new one for it. Keep checking back. Since the trial is scheduled for Aug 2, I think that will be the day they begin jury selection also. The opening statements may not start for a couple days.
TigressPen
Thank you so much. I would greatly appreciate it!
ReplyDeletePate's murder trial has been postponed - Judge Colton agreed to allow defense time to appeal his decision to allow jurors hear the tape of Thomas's confession. No new date has been set but I will keep checking. And checking to see if I can find any outlet carrying live feeds to the trial when it happens.
ReplyDeleteI will say I am very concerned about this appeal. Apparently Thomas's father told Thomas during the confession that he'd failed the lie detector test - Defense still contends that the father was acting as an agent of the law - The confession is the States strongest evidence. But I feel the fact that Micah had no shoes on and that she'd not have gone to the river without them to shoot a gun. Her socks were clean and that is hard evidence to me that she didn't walk in front of the gun as he allegedly claimed.
ReplyDeleteI think Nancy Grace should look into this case about Thomas Pate killing his wife and it being a accident. Please!!!!!! he should be accountable for what he did.
ReplyDeleteI think this case needs some media attention!
ReplyDeleteI have know Thomas Pate for most of his younger years...he was a bully then and I am sure he is still a bully! His mother and father have always covered for his actions and it looks as though it is still happening today. His grandmother even says he is guilty! Why is the state waisting money on his trial?
ReplyDeleteI agree that more media attention is needed with this case. I'm still appalled that Thomas is free on bond and free to live in another state. Although he is charged with first degree murder, he can work, play, travel and generally enjoy life. Micah can't.
ReplyDeleteI do not know this family personally, Anonymous, and regardless of how the family handled anything he did in the past, I have to appreciate Thomas's dad for doing what he did when he was in that interview room. He asked Thomas to tell the truth and did so rather strongly. He could still believe, or want to believe, this was some horrible accident though.
ReplyDeleteHowever, it's the law and the state must see that Thomas has a fair and just trial. I do feel on many occasions defense carries that right over the edge and this is one of those occasions to me. I look at rights of the victim and feel they should come first in court.
I just pray justice for Micah prevails during trial. I personally think Thomas shot and killed her and also that he premeditated her murder.
When is the trial scheduled now? Why is it so hard to find information
ReplyDeleteAnonymous,
ReplyDeleteThe trial date won't be set until after the defense appeals the judge's ruling on the taped evidence- And the appeals court issues a decision.
I had never heard this story until today. A regular guy walked into the facility I work for and stated he was here for his monthly drug screen. I was my normal, chatty self; talking about the ridiculous gas mileage my car gets, talking about the weather, and talking about how I know absolutely nothing about the area in which the facility I work for is located.
ReplyDeleteThe guy was a few patients back and didn't really want to wait, so he gave me a phone number in which to contact him at. It was a strange area code, one I had never heard before, and he proceeded to tell me it was from Arkansas.
Not long after the guy left, my co-worker pulled me aside and told me that he was the wrong person to try to chat it up with. Confused, I asked what he was talking about. He turned to me and said, "he shot his wife in the head."
At first I thought he was messing with me, an afternoon joke to get a rise out of me. He could tell what I was thinking by the look on my face. He simply said, "Google it."
They say curiousity killed the cat. Sure enough, the moment I typed in his name there were countless pages on Thomas Pate, Micah Pate, the investigation, and the trial. After reading the story... I don't know what to think. He seemed like a really nice guy, carried on a good conversation, and was cutting up with me. I am also COMPLETELY blown away by the fact that he is free and free to do pretty much whatever he wants. What kind of message is our justice system trying to send out? Kill someone? Oh it's okay, as long as you have enough money to throw at the situation, you won't have to 'suffer' the consiquences.
My heart goes out to her family and friends in this difficult time. I pray God bring justice and peace to all of you.
I guess it just goes to show you that people aren't always who you think they are...
Anonymous, Although, I realize this is an incredibly serious case, I have to admit I laughed with your conversation with an accused murderer. I send thanks to your coworker! Yes, Thomas is accused of murdering his wife and I personally strongly believe it was premeditated too. Thomas claims accidental shooting. But you are right, Micah was shot in back of head at close range.
ReplyDeleteHis urine test is mandatory due to legal demand. He is an admited cocaine user too. His trial date was set for Aug 2 of this month but due to an appeal on the taped confession it was postponed. I have high hopes it will happen sooner rather than later, but we know the justice system crawls at a slow pace.
You are right, we can never really know if people are who they present themself as. I, too, pray for justice for Micah. My prayers go up for her family daily, that they can find peace and strength to withstand this trial. They can never really find full closure because that hole of the missed loved one will be with them forever. They can, through a guilty verdict, find comfort in knowing her killer is in prison and can never hurt anyone else though.
Did you call with the results or let some other do so. lol
I took have known Thomas and his entire family for MANY years. Agree with the other anonymous that he was always a bully. This doesn't really shock anyone that has known him. Although it is very sad... I went to college with both Micah and Thomas and was always wondering what she was doing with someone like him.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous, I have no doubts that what you say is a truth. Maybe she felt she could change him. That the rose colored glasses of love is blind appears to be a truth in their realtionship. Sadly we will never know what drew her to him or caused her to stand beside him as she did.
ReplyDeleteI send condolences for the loss of your old friend and I'm praying for justice for her.
I've known Thomas his entire life and everyone on here who is saying that he has been a bully his entire life doesnt know him at all. He was always the one getting picked on and made fun of from elementary through highschool. In no way am I standing up for him nor do i think he is innocent. He has always been extremely unstable and short tempered and anyone who knew him wouldnt be shocked to hear what happened. What i fear the most in this case is the truth not coming out, Thomas has always been a pathalogical liar. He always fabricated these wild stories trying to gain acceptance, and never told the truth when he got in trouble in school ( which was a lot). Thomas has too many issues to name and we never knew what Micah saw in him and all I know is he destroyed the best thing that ever happened to him and he will receive his punishment whether its in this life or the next. Hopefully both because I would not be comfortable knowing he's free around my friends and family.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous, You give us another view and cause for thought of Thomas' personality. Especially since you say he had a propensity for being untruthful.
ReplyDeleteMaybe it was due to his being short tempered that created the bully aspect others saw him as, I don't know. If he was the one being picked on then the short temper could be due to that. But since you also allude that he was always in trouble at school, I have to wonder if he his persona alluded anger and that was why he was seen as a bully . Bullys usually bully weaker kids. I wonder, did he become short tempered with the persons bullying him? Or shy back in fear?
I understand your not being comfortable with him being around your friends and family. I'd feel the same if I lived in a city where he lived. That he is free as he waits the trial is one of my frustrations with this case. My concern goes for justice for Micah and the hole her tragic death has left in the hearts of her family and friends.
Thank you for your read and comment, it's greatly appreciated. You have certainly given me more to think about and consider when trying to add reason to the why of Micah's tragic murder.
I, too, have known Thomas his entire life. I'm quite a bit older, and was often involved with him as a camp counselor, etc. He was an awkward child, and was often made fun of. I don't recall him being a bully, but he was very defensive, and was always having to stick up for himself. I don't recall him having any really close friends, and I'm sure he felt very much like an outcast. That's the impression I got. And, as for people who say he got preferential treatment at school because of family connections, I cannot speak to that either. But, knowing that school, he was certainly not the only student who's parents got involved, and used their connections to avoid punishment for inappropriate behavior.
ReplyDeleteBy no means does his being an outcast/awkward kid discount the severity of his actions. And it is horrible that a life was lost at his hands. I did not know Micah, but from what I hear, she was a lovely woman in many ways.
It is important to remind ourselves that we do not know what was happening behind closed doors at their home. This is not to say that anything would justify the end result, but many times, married people have problems, that are never noticed by even their closest friends and family.
It is difficult to believe that this could have been a true accident, but until we have all the facts, all we can do is pray that justice is served, one way or the other. They could have been intoxicated or high, and messing around with guns...there is no telling what really happened down there on that riverbank. Only Thomas knows.
Those of us that know him and his family are hoping and praying that God will give him the courage to speak the truth, be honest about the events of that evening, and that the end result, whether guilty or innocent, is the will of God. Either way, Micah's family has suffered tremendous loss, and just because Thomas isn't dead, doesn't mean his family isn't suffering just as equally. Not only do they have to face the facts about what Thomas did, they have to deal with people speaking badly about their own family, and putting judgment on them without knowing who they are. That's a difficult thing for anyone.
Anonymous, It is great to see those who know Thomas to comment. I will not doubt nor negate your word that he claimed he was bullied as a child; you were his counselor and knew him. Perhaps his being 'picked on' was the reason Thomas became the trouble that his father helped him escape. (If indeed his father did).
ReplyDeleteYou are also correct about allowing children, teens and young adults not to pay for their wrongs, (to own up to what they do) and instead use influence and money to end it, is wrong. Sadly, Michah's death could be a big example of just how wrong it is.
I have stated before that I am grateful to Thomas's dad for what he did in helping bring Micah home so her family could give her the respectful burial she so deserved. And I still am. However, I am not approving or agreeing with the defense use of the accidental death ploy. I simply can't not imagine any scenario where that could be viewed as possible since Micah was shot in back of head. And I am not in agreement of his being 'free' to work and play ball and date other women while he awaits his trial. Thomas is up on first degree murder charges, he had a problem with alcohol and drugs in the past. To me, that says he is not one who should be allowed out in the public. He admitted to using alcohol of late (prior to killing Micah). He had a girlfriend, the dad knew about her, I have to wonder if Micah did.
I haven't read or heard of anything that says the couple were having issues of DV in their relationship. But, I do suspect Thomas was arrogant and used that against his wife. Many times, far too often actually, kids who are bullied by others grow to be the bully against their spouse. They couldn't stand up for themselves when young and are ashamed, so they use the verbal and emotional control (and far too often physical) over their spouse. Verbal and emotional abuse is domestic violence.
Do I believe Thomas premeditated Micah's death. Yes. I do think he took her to that river with full intentions to kill her. Micah wasn't wearing shoes. She was only wearing socks. No one is going to walk around a river edge shoeless( not to shoot a gun or for any other reason) they just aren't - unless they do not own a pair. I am wondering if Micah was connscious when she was shot. I think she'd have fought him otherwise. And I doubt that she was there just messing around with guns, or that she was on drugs or drinking alcohol. I do not believe she was there with him willingly. Due to all I have read, and unless I hear of credible evidence, during the court trial to say otherwise, I will keep believing as I do now; Thomas should be in jail and spending the rest of his natural life behind bars.
I thank you for the comment of my post. All I pray for is justice for Micah, she deserves that and her family deserves answers so they can begin to move on with their lives. Never will there be total closure, a heavy emptiness will always be with them in their hearts for the loss of a dear loved one.
Still no word on the appeal or when a new trial date will be set. A pretrail hearing that was set for today was reset for after the appeal decision. Everything is on hold.
ReplyDeleteTigressPen
Since the appeals court turned down the defense appeal to block the taped confession, hopefully, a trial date will be set sometime this week. May Micah find justice! As with any other trial where I am of the belief the defendant is guilty as charged prior to the trial, if the defense can show reasonable doubt then I am willing to admit that I, too, have doubts of guilt. But, I really can't imagine a scenario defense can argue where doubt of guilt could happen in my mind with this case.
ReplyDeleteI can not say Thomas wasn't bullied as a child. Therefore I can't doubt the truth of it. But, I also have not discovered anything to suggest Micah bullied him either, so I can't see DV argument as the reason for having a loaded gun in his possession and eventual 'accidental shooting' due to Thomas feeling in danger of his own life. Nor have I discovered any reason she'd have gone to the river willingly to shoot a gun or just to talk and leave her shoes behind. I keep trying to picture a reasonable scene in my mind to give credence to the 'accidental' of his story but so far I haven't been successful. We will see if the defense is helpful with that dilemma.
The next court hearing date is Sep 30, 2010; and the confession remains as evidence. Hopefully, trial date will be set on the 30th and only the truth will be made public.
ReplyDeleteThomas is 6'5" tall and Micah maybe 5' tall. Micah was always the loving trusting Christian child of God; we all aspire to be in this life. Who will be next to fall victim to Thomas, should he continue to be free to harm the masses.
Need I say more?
Thursday, April 30, 2009
ReplyDelete1. Micah had worked all day on her feet as a nurse arriving home to a work from home husband, Thomas Pate who worked daily on his home computer for his dad's company in Atlanta, Georgia.
2. It was and had been pouring rain all day for several days; not a day for jogging or an outing for target practice to the river mud bottoms: an isolated place that Thomas had only discovered as a great secluded shooting spot a week or so prior to Micah's death. Coincidence, I think not.
3. He was having an affair and not keeping it much of a secret.
4. If Thomas persuaded an already work-day tired Micah to go with him during a driving rain storm to the river bottoms she would have put on her boots; the same boots that were found at their home; since she was found in only her socks, boots would have messed up his jogging story. Said boots would have been removed from her feet by her husband. The same husband who was so upset over shooting his beautiful precious little wife in the back of her head, that he threw the gun into the fast flowing river, removed the boots from his dead or dying wife's feet and then returning home with the boots, cleaned them and placed them in their usual location to cover the evidence.
5. Later making phone calls to friends’ first and later family to tell them she is missing. Calling the police was not his first thought and 911 for emergency assistance never done.
6. As any physician will tell you, a body decomposing will test positive for a form of alcohol contents, a process of nature when left unattended in the elements for an extended period of time. In this case it was over 24 hours in the muddy, dirty, river bottoms.
7. How can any human being with any semblance of a conscience look in the terrified face a loving mother and father for 24 hours and allow them to believe their precious little child is somewhere being subjected to all types of terror? How can anyone be so void of feelings or compassion of any living creature?
Joran van der Sloot, Thomas Pate; what is the difference in these two men? There is no difference in these two men.
Thanks for the reminder, Anonymous. I have been so busy I forgot to update the case status on this thread since the appeals court denied the defense appeal.
ReplyDeleteHopefully, a date for juror selection to begin will be set on the 30th..
Anonymous of 09 comment:
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comment here again. Back in June I'd written a post due to the question on Joran and Thomas. ( I assume that was you who asked it.) Yes, in some ways they are alike, to me, but in many I feel they aren't.
I don't know what we'll discover in court about the shoes/boots Micah wasn't wearing but I find your views on it very interesting. Yet another way to consider it as we wait.
I don't think Thomas was so upset he threw the handgun in the river any more than I believed in the beginning that she went for a walk with the dog and later jogged during a thunderstorm. I really don't think the handgun is in the river either. River bottoms are muddy but I think LE would've found it if that were true. It would've taken some extreme winds to cause rushing currents and even that would depend on wind direction at the time of the shooting.
I think Thomas's 'boo-boo,' as his dad called the shooting, is going to be Thomas's demise.
I heard that Thomas received two 25 years back to back...is this true?
ReplyDeleteThomas doesn't have a court date until the 30th., Anonymous. He hasn't been to trial for Micah's murder yet nor has he changed his plea to guilty that I know of. He is also charged with employing a firearm with intent and false reporting.
ReplyDeleteHopefully a trial date will be set the 30th.
Wow... I heard from a family member he got the two consective 25 years.
ReplyDeleteA motion hearing on this case is set for Oct. 14. A trial date is set for March of 2011 but I believe that is tenative.
ReplyDeleteI will add more as I discover what is happening.
Thanks for distributing information about the Thomas Pate trial. As time passes it seems less and less is published about the status of the trial. Micah was killed over one year ago while her murderer has been free to go on enjoying life. Hope he doesn't get upset with anyone else. The public would be safer with him off the street.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous, I agree. I was praying we'd have a trial to watch before the end of this year. But, sadly, no such luck. The defense is in the delay trial phase now. Happens in all of them. *sigh* They will make motion after motion and file complaint after complaint between now and March of 2011. Anything to attempt pushing the trial date to a later date.
ReplyDeleteI, for one, will not forget the facts of the case between now and then. Hopefully, witnesses will have excellent memories too. I hope all this time will be beneficial for the state's case too. Maybe they will locate the murder gun. That would surely put a damper on Thomas's enjoyment while playing ball and hitting on women for dates. :)
I will keep up with the next court status date, the one of the 7th was a review. But a motion has been set for the Tuesday, the 12th. Hopefully, we'll find something relevant after that motion is either filed or a decision is rendered.
Anything that happens in court and negative for Thomas makes me smile. He killed Micah - has admitted to it - although he claims accidental. I still have a problem envisioning a scenario to explain how that could happen. Guess my imagination isn't reaching the little gray cells. lol
TigressPen
I haven't found what motion decisions or actions taken came from the court date of 12th. But, I will keep searching and see if any new dates are set in the future before actual trial date.
ReplyDeleteI have not posted before...but I want to tell you how grateful I am that you are keeping an updated watch on this situation. I know some of this family, and several of us are keeping watch on your blog for latest info. Thank you!!
ReplyDeleteAnonymous
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for letting me know my blog is being watched by you and others. I did not know Micah but feel she was a beautiful person inside. She deserves justice. Most definitely she did not deserve to die and left at that riverbank where the stench of dead fish invades the nostrils. (That scent hits me any time I am on a riverbank. So, I assume it would there also.) And to know Thomas is walking free like a 12 year-old who made a boo-boo bothers me to no end.
Believe me, Tigress, that bothers many, many of us. Just the thought of Thomas' father saying to him that he "made a boo-boo" is downright infuriating. Why Thomas has been allowed to go free this long is beyond unbelievable.
ReplyDeleteWhat is really a shame is that a March 2011 trial date means we'll be seeing Thomas in the stands at GACS basketball games for another season when he should be behind bars. Also, I understand that Jody Vickery, the deposed minister at Campus, is also working for Thomas Pate's dad's company -- what a great workplace that must be -- an indicted murderer and an adulterer, stay away from that Christmas party.
ReplyDeleteThomas Pate's trial is set for March 7 so if he wants to watch basketball he'll have to watch before then. I hope the 7th is the day opening statements are heard but it may be they will start delecting a jury. Mr. Pate will attend jury selection- I assume.
ReplyDeleteNothing has been happening in this case lately. So I assume all parties are happy with any legal motions connected to it.
By the way, Anonymous. That's very interesting information about the campus minister.
ReplyDeleteThomas Pate could use a little bible study also. 'Thou Shalt Not Kill.'- He did admit to shooting Micah.
Correction, I should have said two adultery, that was why he was deposed
ReplyDeleteIs he still a minister at the campus, Anonymous? If he is, I guess they figure adultery isn't enough to fire a minister. Don't think I'd want him ministering to my children though. He is supposed to live what he preaches. Supposed too. I wonder if he okays others breaking God's law.
ReplyDeleteI just pray that justice is served for Micah. I think about Micah and her last moments here on Earth. And only her and Thomas know what went really happened. However evidence doesnt lie. Come on Thomas...face and admit what you did.
ReplyDeleteNope, that's why he's now the deposed Campus minister, and working along side Thomas at his Dad's headhunting company. Quite a work environment!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the verification, Anonymous. I wasn't sure if you meant he'd been twice deposed in a legal suit or fired.
ReplyDeleteI can't say as I blame them for firing him! I wonder if he'll seek another minister's job also. Many ministers have day jobs too.
Anonymous, I pray for justice also. I do admit I am concerned about the state's case. Hoping above hope they have enough to convict since he admitted killing her and where he left her body. Who knows how a jury will take his videoed interview statements. But I personally can't imagine how a shot in the back of the head was an accident.
ReplyDeleteI have been following this case for some time now. The only thing I am confused about is the motive to which he would commit the crime. I understand he potentially had another girlfriend, but why resort to murder before divorce?
ReplyDeleteI've wondered the same thing, Anonymous. However, he did admit to drinking again recently and that could've caused marital difficulties since he had a past with alcohol and drugs. Couple that with a girlfriend and Micah could've been a bit ready to tell him to leave. If that was it, add to it that he would've been concerned with Daddy's opinion ( he seems to be a daddy's boy- needs his approval) then the pressure may have built for him. Murder was his way out and to have parental sympathy.
ReplyDeleteThen again, he may have simply wanted to be single again without the worry of divorce.
Either way, or whatever his reason, what he didn't consider was that LE are not dummies and his jogging story wouldn't pan out.
No one really knows but Thomas Pate. And I really doubt we ever will know for sure.
TigressPen
I've been plagued with a cold since before Thanksgiving so haven't been able to focus on updating much of my blog.
ReplyDeleteI hope Mr. Pate gave thanks to God for allowing him to walk free during the holiday on Thanksgiving and for his lawyer's commitment to his case. I hope he appreciates he is a free man during Christmas and New Year while Micah's family has an empty chair at their table. And that they have a hole in their heart that will never be filled with her laughter and smiles of joy.
He has another motion set for this Friday. Ballin can stand before the judge and argue for his client's rights and Thomas can be out doing his Christmas shopping without concerning himself about a gift for his late wife.
Personally, I sent a prayer up for Micah's family and friends on Thanksgiving; a thank you for allowing her to be part of their lives during her short life.
May justice prevail for Micah come March 2011.
I am a family member of Thomas (unfortunately). I hate to admit it but to me this was not shocking to hear the terrible news.
ReplyDeleteTo this day I still have a pair of angel wing earrings Micah gave me for a Christmas present one year. Didn't know it would later mean much more than just a "pair of angel wings" I hurt for her family deeply and I am ashamed to have ANYTHING to do to with that low life piece of shit family!! Thomas. You will get yours!
God bless my husband and his wonderful family. I am grateful for a TRUE loving family.
Tigress, regarding the motive, I think you are spot on. Micah was held in the highest esteem by Thomas's parents, and they were openly and appropriately proud of her and the fact that Thomas could find a wife of her caliber given that he was troubled and a social misfit his whole life. Thomas telling them they were going to divorce would have been devastating and likely met with much "angst", so Thomas looking for another way out is very plausible, and he's delusional and dumb enough to be able to murder her and think he can get away with it. Lets just hope and pray that our judicial system doesn't allow him to get away with it.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous, The memory you have of Micah is beautiful. From the beginning I felt that was what Micah was about - Caring, smiles and protection. Angel wings reflect all three.
ReplyDeleteI totally understand the unfortunately you mentioned with being a family member of Thomas. I searched my roots years ago (maternal and paternal and my husband's family too)and don't remember a Pate family. I do have some ancestors that made me go hmmm. lol But too, we have to remember what one person does doesn't define the whole.
I think I'd be proud to be a known family member of yours. Thank you for sharing the beautiful memory of Micah with us. As always, my prayers are for justice for her.
Thank you so much, Anonymous. I just can't find any other reasoning that makes sense other than he wanted to be free and single again. Found himself attracted to other women more often.
ReplyDeleteI am so glad Thomas's parents and family liked Micah and held her in the family with high esteem. That makes it easier to understand them really. I can understand parents wanting to save a child's life regardless of their crimes against others, but when they refuse to accept those crimes as factual, I get frustrated with them. (Seen many trial where parents just keep on demanding their son/daughter is innocent even after all the evidence says guilt.
I can remember that night like it was just last week. My wife was a nursing student with Micah and I had talked to Micah on several occations and know her family very well. I held my wife that night as she cried into my chest when the news first came that her body was found. I have been reading these blogs from the begining but this is the first time I have posted. When I think about the fact that Micah's family has to go through christmas without her while Thomas has a free life, it makes me sick. Micah comes from a beautiful family and she was a beautiful person inside and out. I hope and pray that justice prevails. As a person who works in law-enforcement, I have to deal with scum like this everyday but it is a little different when you have an emotional attatchment to the case. I just wanted to say thank you for keeping up with the case and letting everyone know what is going on. We miss you Micah!!
ReplyDeleteAnonymous, I can't begin to imagine what Micah's friends felt at losing her. God Bless you for being so understanding. And Thank You for all you do on a daily basis.
ReplyDeleteI am thinking of Micah's family and friends as they head into a New Year without their loved one. Prayers sent up for justice for her in 2011.
Does this sound like Thomas Pate or not? I do not feel this gives him an out; to the contrary, I wish they would lock him up and throw away the key. What happens in a person’s life to make him void of the feeling of others?
ReplyDeleteMy fear is he will plead insanity, be hospitalized and then released to do it again; oh, definitely again, if allowed to remain free.
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is defined by the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual as "...a pervasive pattern of disregard for, and violation of, the rights of others that begins in childhood or early adolescence and continues into adulthood."
Characteristics of people with antisocial personality disorder may include:
• Persistent lying or stealing
• Apparent lack of remorse or empathy for others
• Cruelty to animals
• Poor behavioral controls — expressions of irritability, annoyance, impatience, threats, aggression, and verbal abuse; inadequate control of anger and temper
• A history of childhood conduct disorder
• Recurring difficulties with the law
• Promiscuity
• Tendency to violate the boundaries and rights of others
• Aggressive, often violent behavior; prone to getting involved in fights
• Inability to tolerate boredom
• Poor or abusive relationships
• Irresponsible work behavior
• Disregard for safety
Other common characteristics of those with Antisocial Personality Disorder include superficial charm, swallowed emotions, a distorted sense of self, a constant search for new sensations (which can have bizarre consequences), and a tendency to physically or verbally abuse peers or relatives, and manipulation of others without remorse or empathy for the victim. Egocentrism, megalomania, lack of responsibility, extroversion, excessive hedonism, high impulsivity, and the desire to experience sensations of control and power can also be present. This type of disorder does not relate to assaults of panic or to schizophrenia.
Anonymous, I reread all the comments here and according to his camp counselor and a lady who met him at the facility where he has his required dug testing, I can't say I seriously feel he does suffer from ASPD.
ReplyDeleteCheck comments from: August 27, 2010 1:24 PM
and August 7, 2010 4:45 PM for their comments. Comments of others who knew him doesn't give me the impression either that he can be said to have major patterns of someone with ASPD. He was bullied and he bullied for sure. I agree a couple of the listed patterns could be seen as fitting him though. And, I do feel he is narcissistic. Self-loving.
In truth, other than his never releasing his apron string to his parents, in particular his father, I do not know how I feel or what I think of his psychological make-up. But I do find it very interesting that you see the patterns of ASPD as fitting Thomas.
Thank you for commenting and sharing the ASPD characteristics.
TigressPen
Anonymous, I reread all the comments here and according to his camp counselor and a lady who met him at the facility where he has his required dug testing, I can't say I seriously feel he does suffer from ASPD.
ReplyDeleteCheck comments from: August 27, 2010 1:24 PM
and August 7, 2010 4:45 PM for their comments.
Comments of others who knew him doesn't give me the impression either that he can be said to have major patterns of someone with ASPD. He was bullied and he bullied for sure. I agree a couple of the listed patterns could be seen as fitting him though. And, I do feel he is narcissistic. Self-loving.
In truth, other than his never releasing his apron string to his parents, in particular his father, I do not know how I feel or what I think of his psychological make-up. But I do find it very interesting that you see the patterns of ASPD as fitting Thomas.
Thank you for commenting and sharing the ASPD characteristics.
TigressPen
I had posted the above comment earlier today but for some reason it wasn't showing on the thread so I reposted. If it shows double posting later, then I will delete one of them.
ReplyDeleteTigressPen
I worry that this sociopath will walk away free as a bird after what he admittedly did to his wife. I know the elder Thomas Pate and I find him to be a big bully, and his "extracting a confession" from his son for the police was clearly the contrivance of a con-man and a ploy to "get one over" on the police. I believe the younger Pate and the elder Pate calling on God to help him tell the truth was a highly rehearsed and well executed plan. I pray that it back-fires on them in a big way.
ReplyDeleteI am ENRAGED that this confessed murderer is out on bond, free as the breeze, courting women, working for his father, traveling out of state, etc. How many people are let out on bond for MURDER ONE? How many are allowed to leave the county let alone the state? I fear that if he doesn't flee before trial, he and his father are so smug they actually think they will get away with this. The father is, in my opinion, a co-conspirator in the murder of this young woman.
It is a travesty.
The elder Pate told me in referring to a thinly veiled threat (bully) that in court it's always the party with the best attorney that wins. Now I know his son was and is in some deep trouble and he thinks his attorney is better than the State Prosecutor.
I pray to God that they are seriously mistaken. My worst nightmare is that this predator travels with the elder Pate to work with him in my own community. If he's going away for life, what's one more murder of someone that pisses either one of them off? Or why not run out of the country? All of the possibilities are absolutely sickening.
Remember the trial date of March 7th and pray that all truths are revealed on that day and weeks to come. I pray that all concerned open their hearts and accept the reality of their actions.
ReplyDeleteI also pray for both families concerned; as hard as that is because I am bias when it comes to our local child, Micah. We miss her deeply and she is in our daily thoughts and prayers. We are a village here when it comes to our children, regardless of their ages.
that's really sad
ReplyDeleteYou really have nice and informative posts on accidental gun shootings and as I've scanned through your blog, indeed there are lots of cases nowadays of accidentally pulling that trigger.
ReplyDeleteAs we all know, there are also lots of accidents happening here in our country like water related accidents, injuries and car accidents. And in my hometown in Bay Area, auto accident attorneys are the ones trusted in giving legal advises to people who have been into vehicular catastrophe's. And a personal injury lawyer (Bay Area) handles well all injury-related cases assuring victims that they will be able to get justice they truly deserve.
Anonymous of 01/08, Sadly a possibility any alleged killer can be found NG and walk free is a fact.
ReplyDeleteI admit I have concerns about Thomas being found NG but the more I think about his 'confession' with the help of his dad, the more I feel it will go against him. Although he didn't say, I killed her, he did say it was an accident after dad asked if he'd shot her. And also told police where her body was, he told them he asked her if she was okay and when she didn't answer threw the gun away and left. That he admitted he had the weapon is guilt and all of it puts him at the crime scene where he body was found. I don't understand why he took her shoes though. 'If' she had them on when he shot her, then why take them? Otherwise he'd had to kill her elsewhere and disposed of her body where she was found because her socks were clean. I do not think LE found blood in their home or his vehicle.
I don't agree with the elder Pate, many times even court appointed attorneys are better than a high price lawyer. I do not know the history of Thomas's attorney but I have faith that the state prosecutors are good too. I have to have faith in them or I'd be pulling my hair out. And if they present the evidence properly and clearly then the jury will be able to see the whole picture.
We just have to believe and keep praying for Micah's justice.
Anonymous of 01/10, God Bless and keep you. I admit some cases grab ahold of me and I do become bias too. This case is one of them. I also admit if after all the evidence is heard at trial if I feel the state hasn't put up a believable case then I can see NG found. I may not agree (due to all the extraneous evidence I've heard or read about that the jury hasn't heard or seen) but I can and have at times understood a NG or guilt of a lesser charge being found.
ReplyDeleteSince I haven't seen when they will or whether they have sent out juror questionaires, the 03/07/11 date may be when they do that. I hope it doesn't but it may take a while to choose a jury.
Anonymous of 01/10 9:48 PM, True. Micah's death is very sad.
ReplyDeleteSad too is that another case I've been following (Bob Ward murder trial-in the alleged murder of his wife Diane) is scheduled for 02/14/11 and if they start jury selection on it that date also, the case could run into the date Pate is scheduled to start. I'll be multi-tasking for sure!
Once again I am dealing with the ‘Argh’ effect with this case. It's the ‘Thomas is free to enjoy life’ while he awaits trial that causes my ‘Argh effect.’ He has a birthday on Feb 12 and can celebrate that day with his family and friends. But two days later he can also celebrate Valentine's Day with them. I wonder if he will think of Micah and wish he had not shot her. I wonder if he will sincerely wish she was there with him to celebrate his birthday and Valentine’s Day. Personally, I doubt that, but miracles do happen. I’m not sure I’d believe the sincerity if he declared it a fact.
ReplyDeleteI also wonder if he is nervous on the days his lawyer sits in court fighting for him and he is absent; I wonder if he worries about all the evidence the State has against him. I’d really like to think of Thomas as innocent; that the shooting really was accidental, but I cannot imagine it with what is known of the events surrounding that night. And so, because I can’t imagine it, I am happy when each day passes and time edges closer to the trial.
Truthfully, I hope he isn’t sleeping well these days. I hope he dreams about the threatening aspects of March 07 looming large and sees himself back in jail with no escape. I smile because he can’t have alcohol to celebrate his birthday since he has to go for drug testing on a regular basis.
It disgust me to think Thomas is out of jail and not in jail where he belongs. He looks like a criminal with those beadie eyes and smirk on his face. I wish Nancy Grace would get this story. I hope someone out there will get this information to Nancy and hopefully do him in, so this criminal want go free or we will be reading about him again.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous, I'm disgusted also. Thomas was given bond when he was charged with 2nd degree and that bond was left as is after the charges were upgraded to 1st degree murder. He is on a tight rein but I'd rather he be on a tighter rein too. Sadly, it would seem the accused has more rights than the victim in all cases.
ReplyDeleteNancy could only talk about the case, rant and rave about his being free all these months to do what he does while he awaits trial. I would hoorah that.
TigressPen ~
ReplyDeleteCourt Ordered..it is Mandatory that Thomas be present & in court for every pretrial hearing
Also- Thomas's bond was increased when the charges were increased to FD
Anonymous, Yes his bond was increased to 500000. when the charge was increased from 2nd degree to first degree murder back in Sept of 09.
ReplyDeleteA court date has been at least once a month since he was indicted on first degree murder for reports, reviews and motions. His lawyer is fighting for him apparently. I hope he has a very good lawyer so if he is found guilty, defense appeals will be nothing more than a waste of money.
TigressPen
I just keep waiting for her family to have and end to this. Her mother was one of my professors, she was in jr. high at the time. Such a sweet family. Thank you for being the only place we can find out what is going on.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous, I, too, am waiting for an end to this for Micah's family. I have to admit that I'm looking forward to what takes place in court. What evidence is actually heard by the jury and what is thrown out. Some cases just reach out to me and this is one of them. Another trial I haven't blogged about starts next week and I have watched its progress since 08. Another one of those, she went jogging and didn't come home stories, where husband is the accused. Although her case touches me deeply and I pray for justice for her, it was Micah's death that kept squeezing my heart.
ReplyDeleteMr. Ballin is attempting to get more of the taped interview of Thomas's thrown out. He doesn't want the jury to hear that Thomas is a recovering alcoholic, drug user and that he checked out porno on the computer. I say let it stay in and it is relevant but I am not a judge. Especially since Micah allegedly had made a statement after a marriage counseling session a few months prior to her death that Thomas's anger scared her. Defense also wants that to not be heard by the jury. I'm not sure if the judge will allow the comment about being scared of Thomas to come in, it may come under the hearsay rule. It will be nice if it is allowed because it shows, to me, that Micah wouldn't want to go shoot a gun with Thomas. And that is one of the reasons he claimed they were at the river the day she was shot.
As far as the actual marriage counseling sessions being heard, I have my 'hmm', that it may not be fair. Yes. I'm torn about it. Torn because on one hand I feel what Micah said about her marriage to Thomas in private meetings with the counselor should come in since, to me, her death supercedes Thomas's right. And on the other hand, the sessions where they were together, I'm not sure how I feel. Although I want a justice for Micah, I also want Thomas to have a fair trial.
March 7th is rapidly approaching and even though Thomas' attorney weekly attempts to suppress parts of the condemning evidence it continues to be denied.
ReplyDeleteThe soothsayer's warning to Julius Caesar, "Beware the Ides of March"; of course refers to March 15. Time enough for Thomas Pate's fate to be sealed. Fitting date for a “Found Guilty” decision...
Yeah, Anonymous, suppression is any defense lawyers tactic in criminal trials. lol
ReplyDeleteThankfully we have many good judges who know the laws and do not accede to defense motions without first reviewing what should and can be held as legally acceptable and what should not.
Thomas will be back in court on Friday the 4th. I admit being a little excited about it. The Judge is to rule on the the marriage counseling records and comments by Micah. I am hoping more than one person overheard Micah say Thomas's anger scared her. I also hope he rules in favor of State with the motion on Thomas's interview about being a recovering alcoholic and using drugs. IIRC he did admit he had been using alcohol again during the interview.
ReplyDeleteDo you have any recent information on the trial being aired online or where we can get daily transcripts of what is happening? I live a few states over, but I am consistantly checking in for new news and current info. Please let me know. Thanks and Thanks again for your coverage on this blog.
ReplyDeleteGood news today in the upcoming trial of Thomas Pate. The Judge ruled the confession will be allowed. Also he is going to allow the marriage counselor could testify but lawyers will have limited questioning. At least the jury will hear him!
ReplyDeleteJury selection will still start on 7th. I do not know how long it will take for a jury to be seated but I suspect it will be a few days.
Anonymous, I do not know yet if the trial will be online. TN is usually very good with cameras in courtroom. So, I pray it will.
ReplyDeleteSunday, March 06, 2011
ReplyDeleteIt all begins tomorrow and those not in the small courtroom will rely only on the Memphis daily news reports for information.
We are praying that truthful answers will reveal all of the facts of the death of Micah. We pray for her parents to find their voices tomorrow to convey all they wish to convey to the court in behalf of their precious daughter. We pray for the entire Rine family as they prepare to face the unbelievable task of reliving Micah's last day, hours, minutes, and seconds of her too short life.
We pray for peace and comfort to all of her family and also for all of the Pate family members that hold no responsibility in the horrific actions of Thomas through-out the course of his life. May Thomas be the man God would have him to be, even at this late stage of his life.
We simply pray for broken hearts to begin the process of healing, so very long overdue.
I pray for Micah's family and friends as they discover all the real facts of Micah's death and await the jury decision. Surely the jury will 'see' the truth of the events after hearing of all the circumstancial evidence and piece it together with hard evidence, how the shooting went down.
ReplyDeleteThank you for posting this... thank you, thank you, thank you........
ReplyDeleteI am a lifelong friend of the pate's (have commented here before)
and I just really needed to read this. You put everything into words so beautiful. The Pate's are hurting in unimaginable ways... I am just ready for this trial to be over with so everyone can begin the healing proccess... I think the unknown makes it more difficult to EVERYONE involved... the Pate's have suffered a terrible loss as well as the Rine's and I hurt for both familes.
In reply to anonymous Anonymous said...
Sunday, March 06, 2011
It all begins tomorrow and those not in the small courtroom will rely only on the Memphis daily news reports for information.
We are praying that truthful answers will reveal all of the facts of the death of Micah. We pray for her parents to find their voices tomorrow to convey all they wish to convey to the court in behalf of their precious daughter. We pray for the entire Rine family as they prepare to face the unbelievable task of reliving Micah's last day, hours, minutes, and seconds of her too short life.
We pray for peace and comfort to all of her family and also for all of the Pate family members that hold no responsibility in the horrific actions of Thomas through-out the course of his life. May Thomas be the man God would have him to be, even at this late stage of his life.
We simply pray for broken hearts to begin the process of healing, so very long overdue.
I think everyone who knew Micah is hurting and praying for justice for her. I'm sure some of those are Pate family members also. Any time a murder is committed it has a backlash effect- More than just the victim's immediate family (parents& siblings ) hurt and yes, feel anger.
ReplyDeleteToday as 65 people sit in the courtroom filling out questionares about themself and what they know of this case, if anything, I am sure they, too, are feeling butterflies in their stomach. They will, if accepted, as a juror be sequestered from their family and friends until after the trial is over and the verdict rendered. They can not go to work or do what they normally do and it isn't a vacation for them. They must be impartial and not reflect on emotions of family and others sitting listening to the trial. They must stay unbiased. I pray for them also as I pray for all concerned in this horrific case of murder.
Breaking News:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2011/mar/07/plea-agreement-thomas-pate-second-degree-murder/
I have been in shock since earlier this afternoon. I was coming in earlier but I wanted time to get over the anger with this plea agreement.
ReplyDeleteThomas reached a plea agreement for 2nd degree murder and saved himself a LWOP sentence. He gets 25 years.
Sadly, Pate's confession is an alford plea and that means from now through rest of his life... he can continue to claim accidental death. ARGH!
To me, although Micah gets justice with him now behind bars, her justice isn't what it should be.
To correct my earlier comment,(6:02 PM) He saved himself a possible LWOP sentence if found guilty of 1st degree murder.
ReplyDeleteThe coward didn't even look at Micah's family as he took the stand, without emotion, and took the plea!
ReplyDeleteWhat a piece of shit. He took their daughter's life and was too big of a pussy to even look at them.
ReplyDeleteHe'll get his soon enough in prison though. Weak little bitches like him don't fair so well in the state pen. Especially ones that murdered their wife.
See you in 25, Thomas. You spineless pussy.
Does he still have to stand trial for 1st degree murder? Sorry, confused about the system.
ReplyDeleteDon't know yet what prison he will be sent to, Malcolm. He could go to a minimum security prison where he can work and even advance his education, one where he won't be in a block with extremely violent offenders. Maybe Micah's family will file a civil suite against him so he can't make money in the future off her death. He could write a book and do just that.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous, No he doesn't. His plea allows his punishment and no future trial will happen unless he does something stupid.
ReplyDeleteThis skum bag only got 25 years. I hope he is locked up now. The Coward could not even look at Micah parents and say "I am sorry this happened". I hope in prison he get's what he deserves.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous, Yes. Thomas was immediately taken into custody. No more GA and freedom- not until 2036 anyway.
ReplyDeleteTigressPen
He pleaded guilty to 2nd degree murder today.
ReplyDeleteYes, Anonymous. He took what is called an alford plea for 2nd degree that he shot her but it isn't taking responsibility for murder. It means he is still saying it was accidental. A difference exists. He was sentenced to 25 years without parole so he can't appeal but he gets out after those 23 years is spent in prison. A free man.
ReplyDeleteMr Tigress Penn: I am a family member. Micah is my sister's daughter. Almost two years ago I got a call around 8 in the morning from a family member informing me that Micah had been missing from the previous night (then add in all the information you have already provided above about the searches and her going for a run and ultimately Mr. Pate's Confession.) I live in Columbus, Ohio and my wife and I drove to Arkansas and went to the funeral and spent several days with family there. The amount of pain Mr. Pate caused cannot be calculated. The amount of tears could flood the world. But my sister, my brother-in-law and my family and her brother and extended friends are not the only people who have suffered in this world. None of us hold a monopoly on suffering. There are injustices and tragedies ALL through time and ALL over the world. Yet I am thankful for the prayers and words of encouragement uttered over the past two years.
ReplyDeleteI have followed this story pretty close for obvious reasons. I did not come across your blog until last night. I searched the memphis media frequently to see what small details i might have missed as hearings came and went.
I was doing just that last night because I am unable to attend the trial. while watching my children swim at the Y I searched on my smart phone and came across your blog and read it all. I want to thank you. You have been very objective, even though you had your opinion you remained objective about the facts.
There were times I thought just maybe this could have been an accident. Just possibly. . .I don't know. Yet the evidence overwhelmingly said no it wasn't. I am relieved that my family does not have to go through the trial. hearing witness after witness and tapes of conversations hard to hear. i will never forget the agony of the cries as close family members listened while her mother and father were the first to view her body. hearing these tapes and so forth would have been equally vile and disheartening.
my sister and brother-in-law have spoken at many places and will continue to do so. we are a family that loves Jesus. they have spoken on the importance of making good choices in marriage partners. at the beginning they were against this marriage taking place. however, after the wedding they spent the following years being the best cheerleaders they could to Thomas and Micah. Spending time with them - talking with them and Micah's father even duck hunting with Thomas.
Micah IS in a better place and it is our human selfishness that we want her here. We will join her someday. She is in a place where there is no cheating or heart ache. She is in a good place.
I, for one, can genuinely testify that as a family, we hope that maybe Thomas will be humbled and find God. There are MANY things I could say here, things concerning some of the comments on this site as well as the news media sites. I believe God is in control, even when bad things happen. Period. There is forgiveness for Thomas - it does not mean that the hurt and anger is not there. It just means none of us will act out to perform our own justice. That we will leave that in God's hands as he has instituted courts of law and in the end, His own. My God's grace find Thomas in the miserable place he will live for 20+ years.
Thanks again for your posts. I have tried to figure out who you are but did read that you are not a family member nor friend.
God bless you
I just want to say that Micha was one of the wholesome, God fearing woman that anyone could ask for. Most of us only dream of being that pure. I know we all have sin, but she was as close to perfect as they come. I worked with her and NEVER did I hear a bad word about anyone come out of her mouth. Micha stole the heart of everyone she come in contact with. I don't believe for one minute alcohol was in her system. We love Micha and she has her wings.
ReplyDeleteI pray for Thomas, and I can say she loved him, why I do question. Thomas will have the next 25 years to replay this in his mind. He will then have to meet Jesus who will be his Judge. I pray Thomas will get right with our father.
I was shocked he didn't look at her family, but then again, could you......they can see the lies in his eyes.
Again, this is a great site and we love Micha.
From the Campus Church of Christ "Careline":
ReplyDeleteFrom the Family of Thomas Pate
On the advice of his attorney, Thomas Pate has entered a plea bargain maintaining his innocence, but accepting the punishment for 2nd degree murder. While his family is sorely disappointed with this decision and outcome, we are grateful that this ordeal has come to a close and grateful for the many acts of support provided to us in the last 22 months. We now ask for prayers that Thomas will find a closer relationship with God and the strength to serve his punishment.
He needs God and more, as the autopsy report read.. to shoot someone at close range and say it was accidental, I don't think so. He got 25 years plus 4. That is not near enough for what he did. My he rot in jail and be treated like a criminal for which he is.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous of March 8, Your post brought tears to my eyes and gave me so much to think about.
ReplyDeleteOn the morning of the 7th., I had Micah in my thoughts. I prayed God would send an angel representive of the angel wing earrings Micah had given to a Pate family member to sit with the Rine family and keep wings of peace in their hearts as they sit through the jury selection and trial. I knew they'd hear so much during the trial that would create pain in them.
That the day after Thomas reported she was missing after going for a jog her co workers handed out pamplets and helped search for her told me what kind of person Micah was. She was well loved and had a kind heart. She grabbed mine for sure and held on.
Micah's parents and the gentleness of understanding remind me so very much of my own mother and how she did not ever tell me or suggest I should hate the man who shot and killed my dad. Hate wasn't in her heart because she had a relationship with God. I was 8-years-old at that time.
I do hope Thomas finds it in his heart to finally admit his faults and what actually took place that fateful day on the river bank. He is being punished by losing his freedom for the next 25 years and he does need to come to God on a stronger level and begin to admit and face his inability to take responsibility for his own actions. And not depend on others to do so for him or find ways to absolve him.
What I have learned of since her death makes me wish I had known her in life. I am a blogger who writes about domestic violence. I'm female and Tigresspen was a name given me by a very dear friend. Also Shirleypen (Shirely is my given name) I was called pen by several friends when I was young child and in school. I was given that name because I did love to write and read. I read a lot of books.
Thank you so much for coming down and letting me and the other readers know more about Micah and the person she was as well as her the love for God her family has.
Anonymous, In truth I wasn't shocked that Thomas didn't look at Micah's family when he admitted before the judge and them he'd shot her. He hasn't yet taken full responsibilty for his own actions.
ReplyDeleteI have come to know Micah was a lady of great kindness and gentleness. I'd have to agree with you in that she was as close to perfect and one can be. Especially with a husband like Thomas who cheated on her and turned to alcohol and drugs and (if the person is correct with what Micah said) one who scared her at times. But obviously she saw something inside him that wasn't visible to others and it was that part of him she loved. And because of that and due to her own life, I accept that and will try to add Thomas to my prayers. I haven't yet found it in my heart to pray for him but I am trying.
Thank you so much for coming down and sharing thoughts and opinions with us of Micah's death and life.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous of March 9, Yes he does need God and more. But I am trying very hard to not hate him for what he did to such a gentle loving soul who I've learned Micah was.
ReplyDeleteI agree the 25 years is not enough for what he did. I think I'd be okay with that though if he'd have sit in that witness chair and pled 2nd degree but not so he could pronounce he was innocent. But if he'd been given that deal along with an 'I murdered her' announcement, then I'd feel much better.
I still have anger in my heart for him but in honor of who Micah was, her beautiful heart and how she lived her life, and that she loved Thomas and despite his faults saw something good in him, I really am trying to remove that part of my anger. 25 year is a long time to live where he will be living among the vilest of humans.
I remember the first week working with Micah. We were both new at Germantown, and I was in the break room having a "moment" and she ask me if all was ok. I turned to her and we discussed how tough it was to start a new job and get in to the grove of everything. Her words were " just trust in God, he will bring you though it fine, and just so you know i'm happy your here. If you need anything please let me know"
ReplyDeleteI can't tell you in words how special this person was and still is. I know without a doubt she was a pure soul. I did read some where when they got in her SUV to drive it back to Arkanas a song was playing on a CD. It was Christian music, and when I read the name of the song it was so fitting for the events to follow. God rest you sweet child. She was such a great labor nurse and the compassion she had for her patients just put them at ease. God loaned her to us a short time, but for me I feel blessed to have met her!
I don't know if her parents read this, but I would like to let them know they were wonderful people. I heard so many stories about her family. You guys are a class act to follow to have the faith and love you have.
I'm sure the Pate family has a hard time dealing with all this, because of the respect they had for Micah. I don't know anything about Thomas's childhood. I've not had a child comment a crime, so I don't know how I would react. I would hope I wouldn't go hire an attorney that is known to get scum bags off. I think it was a God send that under the advise of his attorney he took the 2nd degree. Maybe Balin couldn't sleep at night to get him a lower plea? Balin must've dug into Micah's background and found her to be snow white clean?
I am a friend of Micah's from college. In response Anonymous above me (March 9, 1:57pm), as I understand it and was shared at her funeral, Micah's brother was the first to drive Micah's car after her murder. He wondered what the last song was that Micah had listened to in her car and turned on the stereo, where the cd she'd had playing immediately began to play Blessed Be Your Name.
ReplyDeleteCould not be more fitting....
Blessed Be Your Name
In the land that is plentiful
Where Your streams of abundance flow
Blessed be Your name
Blessed Be Your name
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed Be Your name
Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name
Blessed be Your name
When the sun's shining down on me
When the world's 'all as it should be'
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be Your name
On the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering
Blessed be Your name
Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name
You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, blessed be Your name
One more thing...A memory I thought of, which takes on a whole new meaning in light of all of this...
ReplyDeleteMicah was younger than me and was wanting to join the Zeta Rho social club that I, and later she, was apart of ("social clubs" are our Christian university's version of sororities and fraternities). Students looking to join a club would go and visit all of the members. Micah was one that immediately stood out as a girl with something very special about her. After visiting with each member, Micah gave each person a handmade bookmark to remember her by. On the bookmark was the following verse:
And what does the LORD require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God. --Micah 6:8
Every one of us is in need of God's mercy, just like Thomas. I thought Micah's dad said it so beautifully as he stated that Thomas' sentence felt like the right combination of justice and mercy (see below). May Thomas find forgiveness and redemption at Jesus' feet.
http://www.wreg.com/news/wreg-thomas-pate-plea,0,2811101.story
Okay, so I just thought that was the last thing! My mind keeps going... :)
ReplyDeleteMany have voiced questions over how Micah ended up with someone like Thomas, and there were plenty that voiced their sincere concern before they were married. After wrestling with that question myself, I believe it comes down to 2 things...1) her ability to see the good in Thomas despite his struggles, addictions, etc. and 2) loving him and possessing the compassionate heart that she did, her desire to help save him from himself. I honestly believe if Micah could be here today, her first and foremost request in all of this would be for merciful prayers on Thomas' behalf.
Regarding how Micah ended up with someone like Thomas - who knows. But it may be a tragic result of someone's greatest strength also being their greatest threat. Micah was a compassionate caregiver without equal and perhaps she saw an individual who needed an immense amount of care and help in Thomas, and she was right. The problem was that he was beyond helping and an evil person who was willing and able to kill her to get her out of his way. There is some evil in this world that is beyond remediation.
ReplyDeleteI personally know her family and do not care for any of them. They all seem to be the typical two faced Christians. I think they are out for revenge which goes against their so called "christian" morals and what the bible says. Also, it has been overlooked constantly that alcohol was in play from both parties that day and while under the influence many of things that people have doubted adding up could been seen in a different light. A drunk person does not pay as much attention to what they are doing or their surroundings... A drunk person who commits a fatal accident is also not going to make the best decisions and therefore attempt to cover things up.
ReplyDeleteObviously you do not know the family at all or even the facts in the case. Revenge played no factor in this at all. If the Rine family wanted revenge they would NOT have taken the plea deal. If they wanted revenge they would NOT have persuaded the prosecutor to not pursuing the death penalty withing weeks of Thomas' murdering Micah. This trial had nothing to do with revenge - for the state of TN took over and found the facts and the facts said Thomas Pate murdered his wife. The Rine's attitude from the get go is "Blessed Be the Name of the Lord." (interpreted - God is in control and they will live to glorify Him) And they have glorified God every step of the way. Clearly Obvious you Do Not know them.
ReplyDeleteMicah's father duck hunted with Thomas and there was a moment in time where Thomas, after shooting at a duck, thought he hit it but not enough to kill it. Thomas was worried about that duck suffering. Thomas and Micah's father searched for nearly an hour trying to find that duck so as to not let it suffer. Yet this same Thomas after shooting his own wife "threw her into the river" as the report says and walked away then calling for a search for a missing person. Now, honestly, if this was an accident do ya think he would have put at least the same effort for a human than a stupid duck? That he would put her family, work associates and friends through the lie of missing person - while maybe, just maybe 9-1-1 could have saved her? Don't give me this crap that it was an accident. Seriously!
Now - if you want to speak of revenge then let the women Micah worked for get a hold of the little boy Thomas. Castration is a minor description of what they wanted to do to that boy. And I barely know those women, but their voices were heard.
Secondly, what does alcohol have to do with Thomas murdering his wife? Might you be suggesting that the autopsy showed she had 'trace elements' of alcohol? Did you miss the part of the report that said these 'trace elements are consistent with postmortem condition' (meaning this builds up in the body by nature after death). That even if she had a drink it would completely rule out drunkeness. She was not drunk in anyway nor do I think she had even a drink in her.
Mr. or Ms. anonymous from March 9, 2011 at 5:29 PM you are way off the mark here. You have not a clue of what you speak. The dude pleaded guilty because he was
G-U-I-L-T-Y. His lawyer was spot on because the prosecution had enough evidence to send him away for life, no parole. It was only - emphasize ONLY - after the Rine's accepted the plea bargain (of a reduced sentence) that he will not spend the remainder of his life in prison. Is that revenge? Is that them getting even by allowing him a chance of a life after his penalty is paid?
I think I just proved my case.
Poster 5:29
ReplyDeleteI can't believe you posted that uncouth statement. You CLEARLY do not know the same girl we are posting about. I don't believe for ONE SECOND she had a drink in her. You should really do your research before posting such a thing. Are you aware if you eat a sandwich with rye bread you will have a trace of alcohol in your system. He though her out in the bottoms and her body was postmortem condition like the poster above me commented. I almost got sick when I read your post. How dare you? The Rine family has suffered in ways most of us can't even grasp as the truth. Again how could you post such a thing. I'm the poster from the breakroom, and two faced Christians couldn't bring up the God fearing woman Micah was. Only the ones that walk the walk and lead by EXAMPLE could do that. ( you note I didn't say talk the talk right) Again your post sickens me.
Anonymous, 03/09/11:57pm)
ReplyDeleteWhat you said about how Micah sought you out when you were feeling apprehensive on you first day at the job didn't surprise me. From the first I read of her missing status and how her friends at work helped the search for her, I knew she was loved as a special person.
I agree, the Rine family is a class act. I so admire how they held up with grace and honor during the last couple years. I don't think Balin or anyone else could find Micah lacking if they did a basic or extensive search into her background. She was a picture of wonder and glory and I feel so blessed to learn of her in her death as I have. Her life and morals has touched mine in a way that I can't begin to describe here.
Anonymous (03/09/2011 3:21pm)
ReplyDeleteWhat an absolutely glorious song. And you are right, it could not have been more fitting a song for her to have heard. I hope that song was a great comfort for Micah's brother. Micah died too soon and in a way that she should not have but I have no doubt she was spiritually ready and not afraid to go be with God. How many of us can say that? I can't help but think of how many more lives she'd have touched in life, and feel saddened for how she could have done so much more good had Thomas not raised that gun and pulled the trigger that fateful evening. But even as I am saddened, I am touched by the fact that she is a peace. A peace we on earth cannot imagine.
Anonymous 03/09/2011 4:10 pm)
ReplyDeleteI understand how the mind can keep going so your coming in to say more is quite understandable. I, for one, appreciate the insight you bring to this thread in its tragic circumstances for being and the beauty of what it has become. I have to say, I have considered that Micah must have seen something in Thomas that others couldn't see. But, sadly it is a fact that so many domestic violence victims stay with an emotional abuser because they hope that person will change with their help. Far too often it's too late when they realize that change is not going to happen.
Anonymous (of March 9, 2011 5:11 PM )
ReplyDeleteTragically you could be right. I have through the years learned that abusers do not change. And so what Micah's greatest threat was could have well become her greatest threat. And yes, some people in this world is beyond the help remediation could give. Some cannot or will not change, they may show compassion for a while but more often than not that is not a real compassion, it's a front to hold the abused in their control. Abusers know what to do.
If you know or suspect anyone is being abused I suggest you let them know or give them a copy of 'Time's Up' - A Guide How to Escape Abusive and Stalking Relationships. That book literally shows how to move on with your life, how to leave and safely leave an abuser and how to protect yourself while doing so. It's author, Susan Murphy Milano is an advocate against domestic violence. And she has well over 20 years of experience helped those who are abused.
I do not know if Thomas often abused Micah emotionally or any other way for that fact. I pray that for more years of their marriage than not she was happy in his love for her, and hers for him. She deserved a happy marriage.
Anonymous (of March 9, 2011 5:29 PM)
ReplyDeleteI have to admit I do not understand your comment. I have not in the last 2 years since Micah's death, heard or seen anything that would make me believe the Rine family is a two-faced family. I welcome your opinions as I do all opinions but I do not accept yours as one I would take to heart. I suggest you read up in this thread and see what many who knew Micah and some who know Thomas now and as a child have said here. You are saying the whole Rine family are not true Christians.. that I presume includes Micah since she, too, was a Rine. Her co-workers and friends saw a different person than you.
I personally believe the family who has loss a child, a sibling, a family member are true Christians. And I admire their dignity and compassion. I would not presume I could change your mind about them and have no desire to do so. I have no desire to push my opinion, and it is just my opinion because I do not know the Rine or Pate family, on you or anyone else. I simply write what I feel about the cases that I read about and keep up with what is happening in them. I form opinions and speculate based on what I hear, read and see. I will say the opinion I have of Thomas is that no one, not the Rines or the Pate family caused him to be what he became. Only Thomas did. Only Thomas is responsible for taking Micah's young life.
Anonymous (of March 9, 2011 8:49 PM )
ReplyDeleteThank you for so eloquently saying what you did to the person that commented. I have to say, I agree. I never delete messages because they are negative and/or filled with anger. I think this person is angry because his/her friend has been given a 25 year prison sentence and will spend the full 25 years behind bars. I do not think Micah was drinking the day she died. In all my years of trial watching and reading on domestic violence and other cases I have learned that alcohol levels in the body after death, especially after decomp will show in forensic testing. And it is normal for that to happen because the body itself creates it.
I do not believe Micah's family has revenge in their heart. And nothing I have read here or elsewhere tells me they have. One post is not a certainty. My personal feeling are that Micah was a blessing to her family and all who knew and came into contact with her. She touched more lives than what she lived. I also believe she is in Heaven and very much at peace. I only pray her family can find comfort in the knowlegde that she held God in her heart and touched so many in a positive way during her short life.
Anonymous (of March 10, 2011 6:56 AM)
ReplyDeleteI have lost family members through tragic circumstances and I have to say what you are feeling about how Thomas left Micah's body on that river bed is horrible in itself. The fact that he did not tell anyone where she was until the next evening bothers me greatly and I admit shades my opinion of him. I do not agree with the poster who made negative comments about the Rine family but I have to say, he/she has the right to do so.
We, none of us, have to accept what is said as true or fatual. I do believe Micah lived by her beliefs. I believe that has become a fact just from reading all the posters here comments. I was rasied to believe good outweighs bad. And Micah was the good in her life and marriage.
I am an old friend of Thomas Pate's grandparents. In my opinion, the fruit did not fall far from the tree. Thomas, Sr. is and has always been a dominating, domineering cruel man, especially to his in-laws. His grandparents adored Micah but knew that Thomas had anger issues from the time he was a teenager. Thomas, Sr. did a number on his in-laws by limiting visits (if even allowed) and not only with Thomas but with the whole family. Thomas, Sr. got Thomas out of many scrapes that he should have been held accountable for. The church that Micah and her family were and are involved with is totally against divorce. I'm sure that is the reason for counseling. I guess Daddy couldn't get him out of this one.
ReplyDeleteI have been following this case for awhile. I went to junior high and high school with the Pate kids and Thomas was known as being a bully. He was really tall and awkward looking so I'm sure he got picked on too, but he certainly dished it out as well. It was a well known fact that he was a drug dealer for the rich kids at my school and he once accused one of my friends as selling drugs to clear his own name. He was a coward whose parents always made sure to cover his ass. I wasn't surprised at all to hear about the murder, but was absolutely shocked to find out that he was free to roam around Atlanta and act like a free man. I'm just so thankful he finally got what he deserved and hope Micah's family can find some peace. It's really such a disservice his parents did for him by helping him get out of so much stuff his whole life. I guess this is where it leads.
ReplyDeleteRight ON !!!!!!!!!!! I cannot believe the statement his parents made on March 9th @ 731am from the Campus Church of Christ....they were "Sorely disappointed with this decision and outcome", what did they expect he would go free. They should be happy with what he got only 25 years. I have great respect for Micah parents because had it been my daughter, I would have thrown the book at him, life WITHOUT parole and that is what he deserves.
ReplyDeletei agree, the statement from the Pate family and the fact that the Campus Church of Christ would publish and endorse it is incredible. They aren't sorry that Thomas shot Micah in the back of the head and left her overnight in a river bed, they are only sorry that Thomas pled guilty and hope he has strength to serve what they imply is an undeserved sentence. They should be grateful that Thomas got 22 months of undeserved freedom before some justice was served. No mention of the pain and loss Thomas inflicted on the Rine family, only a self-serving, arrogant statement...shows what is really in the hearts of the family and the church.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous (of March 10, 2011 11:31 AM )
ReplyDeleteI can only relate to what I have seen in media vids and read in articles of the Pate family. I can in all honesty say I do believe Thomas has a deep seated need to please his father. According to all I have read here I do believe Thomas had a troubled childhood also. That, too, is my opinion based on all I mentioned above. However, he and he alone is responsible for what he did, not his family.
Anonymous, of(March 10, 2011 2:37 PM )
ReplyDeleteI have come to believe Thomas was a bully as a child and also that he was bullied. The later can lead to the former. Sadly so.
Thomas did not plea to murder, his alford plea was for shooting Micah. And the State accepted that plea. So it is one I, too, accept. I don't have to like it or believe it was the right thing to do for him but it was right for the Rines because they accepted it too. For Thomas- And I think so their family could move forward with the process of grief without having to sit through a long drawn out trial and later appeals. I consider them honorable for that action.
Anonymous, of(March 10, 2011 5:31 PM )
ReplyDeleteI am not judging the Pate family or their statements. They wanted their son home with them. Maybe it's denial maybe not. But the facts are Thomas caused Micah's death... he says accidentally, the facts I have read and learned say otherwise. But I do, as I mentioned above, accept the Rine family, the state's and the courts decision.
I am surprised that (from what I surmise and read in the statment) that Thomas did not discuss his decision with his family. At least, if he did not talk about it with his dad, for once he took the lead and made 'a decision' on his own. It is a soft deal. He didn't have to say I murdered her, but rather I caused her death. A stark difference. I am sure the Rines would love that this had not happened and want their daughter back home with them too. However, death is final and that cannot be. I too respect the Rine's for allowing such a deal to go forth.
Anonymous (of March 12, 2011 9:00 AM)
ReplyDeleteI can only refer you to my above statements on my feelings of the Pate family.I, also, was upset that Thomas was out on bail. More after the first degree charges were lodged against him. But he isn't the first murder 1 suspect to have been allowed out until trial and he won't be the last. One thing that makes me upset over the plea deal is that Micah's body was left to the elements for so long before Thomas told where she was.
I do feel Micah has some justice and from what I have read of her, I think she'd approve. She loved Thomas, that was evident in her willingness to do what she could to save her marriage. (Seeing the marriage counselor for one.) I personally do not believe God would want a person to stay in a harmful marriage. So divorce is acceptable to me. Where is the happiness with intimate life to stay within an relationship after one has done everything possible to save it, and the partner refuses to save it too? I cannot see divorce as a failed test of ones love for God.
In the end Thomas and the Pate's got the best of justice, not the Rine family. If he'd had the trial and found guilty then he'd gotten lwop and would never be freed.
ReplyDeleteMs. Tigresspen, I've never read a more interesting blog than your writing . There's another murder that hasn't gotten near the attention it should. Pamela Taylor killed Michael Taylor on Dec 23 2009 in Memphis. If your interested in a murder to really look at facts this one needs attention. I couldn't find a way to contact you personally.
ReplyDeleteI'm new to this blog and I love it! I hope we discuss another murder trial
ReplyDeleteI think Thomas did receive the best of justice but there is one thing that hasn't been mentioned. When a defendant takes the Alford plea, we all know he/she isn't admitting guilt but he/she is admitting the State has enough evidence to convict. So, Thomas, although he took the plea knows Prosecutors had good strong evidence against him.
ReplyDeleteThat is one thing that makes me feel better about his plea. I actually, due to the Rine family and the song posted here that she'd heard the last time she drove her car, did pray for Thomas to find peace inside last night and in time that he will admit fully to his actions. Admit to Micah's family that is. He doesn't get paroled so he doesn't have to admit anything to be set free in 25 years. It's just a prayer that he will.
You perked my attention. :) I did do a small search after reading your comment late last night and found a couple articles. And wow! The first article I read had a comment from a resident in the apartments where Michael and Pamela lived. He said police had been to that area before so he wasn't surprised to see them there again. I have to wonder if domestic violence, either by her or him, was heavy in that home. What happened to cause Pamela to buy that gun? More so what caused her to use it a day later? I'll do some more digging with it.
ReplyDeleteAt this time I am busy watching the Bradley Cooper trial live online. It is one I've waited since 2008 to watch. A friend reported Nancy Cooper missing but Brad, the husband, said she'd gone jogging and didn't return. (Sound familar? :( ) I didn't blog on the Cooper case until a couple days ago, just kept up on and off with what was happening in the case. Micah's missing and being found dead hit a chord inside me, so it was her case I decided to keep up with here on the blog.
Chica, Thank you for the postive thought on my blog. At this time I am watching and keeping up with the Cooper murder trial. Bradley Cooper is defendant and deceased victim his wife, Nancy.
ReplyDeleteYou can watch it also on wral.com At this time the jury is hearing evidence from a witness that the public isn't privy too so cameras are dark. But, it'll be back live in court after the witness is excused.
As the storms of this week gathered and reeked havoc, I prayed for both the Rine & Pate families to stay safe during the devastation. So much tragedy has hit them already.
ReplyDeleteThe 30th marks 2 years since Micah died. I hope her family has a beautiful day on Sat knowing she is in such a beautiful place now. No, it isn't the same as having her near, hearing her laughter and seeing her smile. But I think it's a comforting to know when someone we know and love passes that Heaven has been uplifted with beauty. I know I do each year on the date marking my parents and siblings deaths. It always helps me deal with the heaviness in my heart.
I was in school at Harding when Micah was there. I was a year older than her, and friends with her and one of her roommates. We were all friends. Micah was precious. She had a quiet graciousness about her. She was loving and I can ALWAYS see her smile when I picture her in my head. She and I would playfully banter back and forth but all I can really remember is her smiling with us.
ReplyDeleteI miss Micah.
Oddly enough, I ran into Thomas at a Lipscomb basketball game about a year and a half ago. I knew Thomas while at Harding too, never a big fan. He came up and tried to have a conversation (I was stunned).
I feel numb towards him. But I know God's grace can cover him as much as it covers me--I pray Thomas comes to this understanding.
I can't wait to see Micah in Heaven soon. I miss her hugs! She was everything good the people on this blog have claimed her to be. I haven't seen Micah in almost 10 years now probably, but I can still recall all the good memories I had with her when she was a part of my life. I feel very blessed to have known her. I wish there were more women like her in the world.
God bless all those involved in this tragedy.
Suffering the loss of Micah continues to this very day; all it takes is a word from the pulpit here at College Church of Christ in Searcy, Arkansas, or a song, or a prayer and we are taken back to that day when we were told she was missing and later gone from this world.
ReplyDeleteWe know where she is today and we know that her family and we, their friends are the ones that continue to suffer from Thomas' actions. I sincerely hope and pray that Thomas too, knows the pain he has inflicted upon so many that loved Micah. For only in his full acceptance of the harm that he has done, can he begin to open the door for a change in our hearts toward him.
Does God forgive us when we do not ask for forgiveness; I really do not know. Hopefully one day I will understand all, once I have followed Micah to her/our home in Glory.
It sounds like this man was, and is, mentally ill. I have to wonder if, during his time in college, that anyone recognized just how disturbed he was. Or if the admissions office knew he had serious problems when they let him into the college. He should have been getting psychiatric help.
ReplyDeleteThis particular is usually apparently essential and moreover outstanding truth along with for sure fair-minded and moreover admittedly useful My business is looking to find in advance designed for this specific useful stuffs… trial marriage husband novel
ReplyDelete