Suspect in '00 death extradited
Journal - Gazette; Ft. Wayne, Ind.;
Sara Eaton The Journal Gazette; Dec. 15, 2001;

Abstract:

A probable cause affidavit alleges Steven Johnson and others chased King down outside the motel. Johnson then used his knee to hold King down, put him in a headlock and choked him while another salesman beat him on the face, the affidavit said.Johnson told Stacey Jenkins he joined in the chase of King after Johnson saw his boss running down a motel hallway in pursuit of King, the affidavit said. Johnson's boss also threw a beer bottle at King during the sprint, Johnson told Jenkins, the affidavit said. Johnson was formally charged in late October in King's death after detectives spoke with him and witnesses they had not spoken to before, the affidavit said. It was not clear late Friday whether the Allen County Prosecutor's Office will seek a more serious charge against Johnson like they did with Shaw.

Copyright Journal - Gazette Dec 15, 2001

Salesmen arrested in Valley incidents
Spokesman Review; Spokane, Wash.; Lorie Hutson Staff writer
Sep 15, 2001;

Abstract:

Officers arrested a North Dakota man suspected of criminal trespass and possession of drug paraphernalia near 15th Avenue and McDonald Road on Monday. Raymond E. Romaniuk, 18, told police he was working for Fidelity Reader Service.

(Copyright 2001 Cowles Publishing Company)

DEATH AT MOTEL COSTS CULPRIT 6 YEARS IN PRISON
Virginian - Pilot; Norfolk, Va.; THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT; May 22, 2001;

Abstract:

Their victim, John W. Skyles III, 31, was in town selling magazine subscriptions when he was shot to death on March 15, 2000, in a room at the Quality Inn on West Ocean View Avenue. Skyles, originally from Luther, Mich., worked for Palmetto Marketing in Coral Springs, Fla. He was here with a group of salesmen.

Copyright Virginian Pilot May 22, 2001

PENINSULA MAN GETS 43 YEARS IN SLAYING OF VISITING SALESMAN
Virginian - Pilot; Norfolk, Va.; THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT; Jan 27, 2001;

Abstract:

John Skyles III, 31, was in town selling magazine subscriptions when he was shot to death on March 15 in a room at the Quality Inn on West Ocean View Avenue. Skyles was from Luther, Mich., and worked for Palmetto Marketing in Coral Springs, Fla. He was here with a group of salesmen.

Copyright Virginian Pilot Jan 27, 2001

MAN BEATEN AT COURTHOUSE SETTLES SUIT FOR $1.8 M
The Oregonian; Portland, Or.; From correspondent and wire reports; Aug 23, 2000;

Abstract:

[Dennis DeMers]' attorney, Elden Rosenthal, said [James Larry Ramson] and [Jeremy Delano Kincaid]'s employer, American Community Services, agreed to a settlement last week in a lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Eugene.

Copyright Oregonian Publishing Company Aug 23, 2000

Peddlers face tougher criteria -- Door-to-door salespeople must pass stricter background checks
Journal Star; Peoria, Ill.; MIKE RAMSEY; May 9, 2000;

Abstract:

So far this year, Peoria has received a half-dozen applicants for sales permits, but none for door-to-door sales, according to the city's accounts receivable division. The applicants plan to sell goods such as ice cream or flowers from vehicles. Now, police will check for a wider array of offenses when an individual applies for a mandatory $50 peddler's license. Besides fraud, burglary and theft, authorities will screen applicants for felony sex, first-degree murder and home invasion convictions in Illinois or other states - offenses that will trigger denial of a permit. Most of the World Wide Readers employees didn't apply for a city permit, so police weren't able to do background checks on them. That's why it's a good idea to ask a forprofit sales representative to show a license, one official said.

Copyright Peoria Journal Star Inc. May 9, 2000

2ND PENINSULA MAN CHARGED IN SLAYING OF NORFOLK VISITOR
Virginian - Pilot; Norfolk, Va.; STAFF REPORT; Mar 24, 2000;

Abstract:

A second Peninsula man has been arrested and charged with the March 15 death of door-to-door magazine subscription salesman John Skyles, according to police records.

Copyright Virginian Pilot Mar 24, 2000

Police identify salesman killed in Ocean View motel
COURTS & CRIME Virginian - Pilot; Norfolk, Va.; Mar 18, 2000;

Abstract:

Police have identified a door-to-door salesman who was killed in an Ocean View motel Wednesday night, and have charged a Newport News man with his slaying. John Skyles III of Little Rock, Ark., was in town with a group of magazine subscription peddlers when he was shot and killed at the Quality Inn in Willoughby, police said. Marsala Yannick, 19, was arrested Thursday night and charged with murder and using a gun while committing a felony, said police spokesman Larry Hill. No motive was given for the shooting.

Copyright Virginian Pilot Mar 18, 2000

Surprise plea by saleswoman avoids jury trial Judge sentences her to 25 years for stabbing death of Peorian
Journal Star; Peoria, Ill.; CHRISTOPHER R. WILLIAMS; Dec 7, 1999;

Abstract:

A door-to-door magazine saleswoman was sentenced to 25 years in prison Monday after pleading guilty to murder in the stabbing of a Peoria man in his home last summer. Maynor folded her hands prayerfully in front of her face as she sat next to her attorney, Mark Rose, awaiting Judge Michael Brandt's decision to accept her negotiated guilty plea. Maynor admitted killing 44-year-old insurance agent Kevin Danner on July 27 after having sex with him at his home at 2205 W. Cindy Lane in the Rolling Acres subdivision. The pair also had shared drugs and alcohol, prosecutors Al Purham and Jeff Flanagan told Brandt.

Copyright Peoria Journal Star Inc. Dec 7, 1999

Grand jury indicts murder suspect, 22 Indiana woman accused in fatal stabbing of Peoria man
Journal Star; Peoria; TIM MEIDROTH; Aug, 18, 1999;

Abstract:

Adrian Maynor, 22, of Griffin, Ind., is accused in the July 27 stabbing death of Kevin Danner, 44, of 2205 W. Cindy Lane. Danner suffered multiple stab wounds to his chest and back, and head wounds from a blunt object. Police found a butcher knife Danner owned at the scene of the homicide. Maynor first told police Danner raped her at gunpoint, and she struck him on the head after the assault and fled. But police, who found Danner dead in his blood-smeared living room, said they believe if he and Maynor had sex, it was by consent.

Copyright Peoria Journal Star Inc. Aug 18, 1999

EDWARDSVILLE, ILL., POLICE ARREST DOOR-TO-DOOR MAGAZINE SALESMAN
CHRISTINE EUFINGER, BELLEVILLE NEWS-DEMOCRAT, ILL.; Aug, 13, 1999;

Abstract:

An Arizona door-to-door salesman could spend up to 30 days in the Madison County Jail after he got in trouble with police over what they said were aggressive sales tactics. And police warn that the Belleville company he was working for may not be legitimate. Edwardsville police arrested magazine salesman Lamond K. Sublett, 20, of Phoenix on Wednesday afternoon for damage to property, trespassing and resisting a police officer, all misdemeanors.

Copyright BELLEVILLE NEWS-DEMOCRAT; Aug 13, 1999

2 arrested in burglary of C.R. policeman's home
Author: Steve Gravelle; Gazette staff writer; Aug, 13, 1999;

Abstract:

The Gazette (Cedar Rapids-Iowa City)
August 13, 1999
Edition: Final
Section: B
Page: 1
Two men selling magazine subscriptions door to door were arrested after one of them allegedly burglarized the home of a Cedar Rapids police officer. "At least we got them, and we recovered most of the money," Police Sgt. Mark Andries, the department's public information officer, said after the men allegedly broke into his home at 340 Floral Dr. NW on Wednesday afternoon. Randall E. Owens II, 22, of Springfield, Mo., was held Thursday afternoon in the Linn County Jail in lieu of $6,500 bond on a charge of third-degree burglary. Owens was also held for transport to his home county to face felony motor vehicle theft charges, according to documents filed in District Court. Owens "admitted entering the victim's home but claimed it was not with illegal intent," according to the complaint filed against him. He was carrying cash in the amount and denominations missing from Andries' house, the complaint said. Owens' companion, Paul L. Hinkle, 19, of Danville, Ill., was released after an initial appearance Thursday on a charge of interfering with official acts. Hinkle, who allegedly gave a false name to officers who questioned him, was also sought by Illinois authorities for violating terms of his probation requiring him to stay in his home state, Andries said. Owens and Hinkle told police they were selling magazines for a Rock Island firm called Circulation One. The firm has no telephone listing in the Rock Island area, and Circulation One does not have a city permit to sell door to door in Cedar Rapids. The two men told police they were staying at the Presidential Inn in West Branch. A man staying at the motel who identified himself only as George confirmed Owens and Hinkle worked for Circulation One, but he refused to provide a phone number for the company's home offices. George said Circulation One does background checks on some of its sales personnel, but said it is difficult to get a nationwide check. Darlene Adkins, vice president of the National Consumers League, said traveling sales operations are difficult to track. "These companies change names and don't really have established offices," she said. "Part of the frustration in dealing with these companies is that they move in and out of an area so quickly." Applicants for Cedar Rapids' door to door sales permit must clear a police background check and are given a copy of the permit to carry. The only magazine sales licenses now on issue are to two women working for Nashville-based Southwestern Company. According to police reports, a neighbor saw Hinkle and Owens knock on the front door of Andries' home about 4 p.m. Wednesday. After receiving no answer, the pair went around back, where Owens allegedly forced open a patio door. He took some cash from a wallet and left the house as police arrived on the block, according to Andries. The pair led a foot chase that went through Taft Alternative School and into a nearby soybean field, Andries said. The police helicopter crew and a tracking dog were unable to locate them, but another neighbor spotted Owens emerging from a nearby field and notified officers. Caption:
Paul L. Hinkle
Released from jail
Randall E.Owens II Jailed
COLOR PHOTOS


Copyright (c) 1999, 2000 Cedar Rapids Gazette; Aug 13, 1999

TRAVELING SALESWOMAN CHARGED WITH KILLING CUSTOMER
Evansville Courier & Press; Evansville, Ind.; RICK DAVIS, Courier & Press staff writer 464-7450 or rad@evansville.net; Aug, 3, 1999;

Abstract:

Adrian Maynor, a 22-year-old traveling door-to-door magazine saleswoman, walked into a Peoria police station at 1:58 a.m. on July 28, drenched in blood, and "matter-of-factly" accused a man of rape. When police responded and surrounded the home of the accused rapist, 44-year-old Kevin Danner, they discovered the man lying naked on the floor in the middle of a gory crime scene. Maynor was charged with murder July 29 and is being held on $750,000 bond. She gave police a home address of 2818 Manzart Blvd. in Griffin, but also gave police a home telephone number with a 219 area code, which is in extreme northern Indiana.

Copyright Evansville Courier Aug 3, 1999

Deaths, injuries, assaults involve Indiana company's agents, customers Subscription to TROUBLE
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel; Milwaukee; DAVE UMHOEFER; Aug 1, 1999;

Abstract:

Agents working for a large Indiana-based magazine subscription sales company, American Community Services Inc., have been at center stage in six deaths and eight injuries or assaults this decade, records show. In 1990, a 76-year-old retired beautician in Woburn, Mass., was stabbed to death by a Detroit sales agent for ACS. The salesman, who had a prior rape conviction, had sold a subscription to the victim earlier in the day in suburban Woburn. In May 1992, a driver with no license and very little driving experience took the helm from tired co-workers in a sales van that hit a freeway median and overturned on I-80 west of Des Moines, Iowa, ejecting nine people onto the highway. Five agents were killed and six injured. The crew, known as Total Dedication Inc., was [LeVan] Ellis' firm, corporate records show, and worked under contract with ACS. Ellis was traveling in a separate car, records show.

Copyright Journal/Sentinel, Inc. Aug 1, 1999
Credit: Journal Sentinel staff

Subscription agency says it doesn't screen vendors Owner says problems are managers to solve
Journal Star; Peoria; MIKE RAMSEY; July 31, 1999;

Abstract:

The owner of a Miami, Fla., company that sends door-to-door salespeople across the country denies responsibility for recent problems with his vendors in Peoria. But Michael Whitely, who identified himself as president of World Wide Readers Services, acknowledges his firm doesn't screen its vendors for prior criminal offenses. And on Friday morning, he said he had lost track of the group he sent to central Illinois to sell subscriptions. By Whitely's own admission, it's riskier to hire the type of person his agency usually targets: nonemployable young people who are willing to travel the country, work on commission and get doors slammed in their faces. Whitely, himself a veteran of street sales who started the company in 1993, estimates the turnover rate at 99 percent.

Copyright Peoria Journal Star Inc. Jul 31, 1999

Peoria murder victim from Morton
Pantagraph; Bloomington; JIM STAHLY JR.; July 31, 1999;

Abstract:

PEORIA - A 44-year-old man allegedly stabbed to death in Peoria late Tuesday night by a 22-year-old magazine saleswoman has been identified as a former resident of Morton. Peoria Police say Adrian Maynor of Griffin, Ind., beat and stabbed Kevin Danner of Peoria after selling him two magazine subscriptions and having sex with him.

Copyright Chronicle Publishing Company Jul 31, 1999

Magazine peddler charged in stabbing Woman who lives `on the road' and has short prison record is accused of murdering Peorian; no motive is offered at hearing
Journal Star; Peoria; MICHAEL SMOTHERS; July 30, 1999;

Abstract:

Prosecutors would like to make state prison her home for up to the next 60 years, one of them told a judge Thursday when Maynor was charged with stabbing and bludgeoning Kevin Danner to death. An autopsy Thursday showed Danner suffered multiple stab wounds to his chest and back and head wounds from a blunt object, said Peoria County Coroner Dan Heinz. Police found a butcher knife that Danner owned at the murder scene. Danner apparently gave Maynor personal checks for two magazine subscriptions she was selling door to door before he was killed. That was after Danner invited her in out of the late-afternoon heat Tuesday, police said.

Copyright Peoria Journal Star Inc. Jul 30, 1999

Salespeople were working minus license
Journal Star; Peoria; MIKE RAMSEY; July 30, 1999;

Abstract:

A 22-year-old transient charged with murder Thursday was among dozens of salespeople this week knocking on Peoria doors without a city license. Adrian Maynor and as many as 100 other employees of World Wide Readers arrived in the city this month to sell magazine subscriptions for the Miami, Fla., company. World Wide Readers or its employees have paid to house salespeople in about 50 motel rooms. But neither the company nor most of its vendors spent the $50 per person necessary for sales permits.

Copyright Peoria Journal Star Inc. Jul 30, 1999

Magazine seller held in brutal stabbing Woman first claims rape, then apparently changes story
Journal Star; Peoria; MICHAEL SMOTHERS; July 29, 1999;

Abstract:

"Nothing ever happened" at the small Rolling Acres house that Kevin Danner and his teen-age son moved into last fall, until Tuesday, when a woman selling magazines knocked on the door. The saleswoman, Adrian Maynor, 22, first told police Danner had raped her at gunpoint. She eventually told another story that, coupled with collected evidence, put her in jail facing charges of murder, burglary, theft and possession of marijuana. If Maynor and Danner did have sex, it was by consent, Sauer said. But he declined to say what allegedly spurred Maynor to stab Danner "numerous times."

Copyright Peoria Journal Star Inc. Jul 29, 1999

Driver arrested in deadly van crash Man, 20, steering van filled with youths was facing license suspension
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel; Milwaukee; CROCKER STEPHENSON, Peter Maller, Mary Beth Murphy and Jesse Garza, reporting from Janesville, and Meg Jones, Neil Rosenberg and David Umhoefer, reporting from Milwaukee, all of the Journal Sentinel staff, contributed to this report; Mar. 26, 1999;

Abstract:

Jeremy A. Holmes was facing five suspensions on his expired Iowa driver's license. His driving privileges in Wisconsin were twice suspended in 1998. That same year, he was cited four times for speeding in Iowa. Names of victims were not released to the media, but authorities late Thursday released a list of the passengers' hometowns and ages: A 16-year-old female from Oregon, Wis; an 18-year-old female from Verona, Wis.; a 21-year-old man from Lacombe, La.; a 22-year-old male from Wichita, Kan.; a 16-year-old male from DeWitt, Iowa; a 25-year-old female from Princeton, W.Va.; a 15-year-old female from Madison; a 19-year-old female from Louisville, Ky.; a 20-year-old male from Holyoke, Mass.; a 22-year-old male from Belvue, Kan.; an 18-year-old male from Tulsa, Okla.; a 22-year-old female from Fort Collins, Colo.; and a 16-year-old female from the Madison area.

Copyright Journal/Sentinel, Inc. Mar 26, 1999

New Regulations Tighten Child Labor Laws, Require Employers of Minors in Door-to-Door Sales to Register
Business Wire; New York; News Editors/Government Writers; Dec 2, 1998;

Abstract:

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 2, 1998--New regulations designed to strengthen the employment rights and safety of minors employed in door-to-door sales, will go into effect on Dec. 4, DIR Director John C. Duncan has announced. The regulations require most employers, transporters and supervisors of minors engaged in door-to-door sales to register with the state Labor Commissioner by Dec. 4, 1998. "Thousands of California's young people work after school, on weekends, and during summer vacations," said Duncan. "The 'door-to-door' regulations, along with the other California child labor laws, are designed to help young workers acquire work experience and income, while safeguarding their scholastic advancement and physical well-being," Duncan added.

Copyright Business Wire Dec 2, 1998

NORTH PORT CONSIDERS SALES LIMITS
Sarasota Herald Tribune; Sarasota, Fla.;
Chad Binette STAFF WRITER; Nov 18, 1998;

Abstract:

Ralph Reichert is tired of pushy salespeople coming into his optical office and hawking roses, magazines and cookies. Reichert, owner of North Port Optical, said he usually must deal with one or two salespeople daily during the winter. They enter his business even though a nearby sign indicates no soliciting is allowed in the North Port Center plaza. Reichert supports City Commissioner Rue Berryman's desire to crack down on door-to-door sales. Berryman would like to ban anyone who doesn't live in North Port from selling goods door-to-door there.

Copyright Sarasota Herald Tribune Nov 18, 1998

EX-OFFICIAL COMING OUT OF COMA
Columbian; Vancouver; AP; Nov 13, 1998;

Abstract:

ADAIR VILLAGE, Ore. (AP) A former city councilor is slowly awakening from a coma, nearly three months after police say he was beaten by two door-to-door magazine salesmen who left him for dead. Dennis DeMers was found unconscious and not breathing Aug. 12 on the steps of the Benton County Courthouse. Police say he was attacked following an argument over a few dollars at a fast food restaurant. Police say they may never know the details about the argument between Dennis DeMers and his alleged attackers. They say the dispute did not involve a magazine sale but won't say more because they have only the suspects' version of events.

Copyright Columbian Publishing Company Nov 13, 1998

FORMER ADAIR VILLAGE COUNCILMAN COMES OUT OF COMA AFTER BEATING
The Oregonian; Portland, Or.; The Associated Press; Nov 11, 1998;

Abstract:

A former City Council member is slowly awakening from a coma, nearly three months after police say he was beaten by two door-to- door magazine salesmen who left him for dead. Dennis DeMers was found unconscious and not breathing Aug. 12 on the steps of the Benton County Courthouse. Police say he was attacked following an argument over a few dollars at a fast food restaurant. He remained in a coma for more than two months as his family waited anxiously for a sign of recovery. They got it about two weeks ago, when DeMers opened his eyes and asked for his son.

Copyright Oregonian Publishing Company Nov 11, 1998

Township Board makes solicitors register to peddle
The Grand Rapids Press; Grand Rapids, MI;
Kathleen Lord The Grand Rapids Press; Sep 24, 1998;

Abstract:

A new ordinance in Ada Township regulating door-to-door sales is intended to keep tabs on solicitors. Supervisor George Haga said that even though solicitors have posed few problems, the ordinance takes into account safety issues, including the assaults of two elderly village residents in the last year. Ada Township Clerk Deb Ensing Millhuff said concerned residents should ask for a solicitor's identification and, if still worried, call the township to check credentials.

Copyright Booth Newspapers, Inc. Sep 24, 1998

A Safety Net for Young Fund-Raisers; Web Store Supports Schools While Keeping Children From Selling Door-to-Door
The Washington Post; Washington, D.C.; Peter A. McKay; Sep 23, 1998;

Abstract:

Now they think they've found a better way to raise money for such activities. The Grammicks, who run an online sporting goods store, are offering school fund-raisers a portion of the revenue from sales to customers directed to their World Wide Web site. The Grammicks, of Nokesville, said online sales are a safe alternative to traditional school fund-raisers, which often involve students selling products door-to-door to strangers. They hope that publicity surrounding recent crimes against students going door-to-door in New Jersey and Manassas will drive home their point to school districts across the country. Meryem Grammick said her first attempts to market the site for more organized fund-raising have been in New Jersey, where she's sent fliers to more than 1,500 PTAs at elementary schools. Legislators in that state are considering a ban on all door-to-door sales after an 11-year-old boy was killed a year ago while selling candy by himself in Jackson Township.

Copyright The Washington Post Company Sep 23, 1998

STATE BARS COMPANY FROM DOOR-TO-DOOR CANDY SALES
Columbian; Vancouver; JULIE FINNIN DAY, Columbian staff writer; Sep 17, 1998;

Abstract:

The temporary ban stems from an Aug. 13 lawsuit filed in Spokane by the Washington Attorney General against Ad-An Sales, and could become permanent, depending on the outcome of the lawsuit. One of the people named in the lawsuit, Vancouver resident Mansoor A. Mian, was fined $28,000 last week by the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries for illegally employing four Clark County youngsters in Oregon. The Oregon Wage and Hour Commission revoked his right to hire minors in that state. Ad-An Sales & Distribution Inc. operates locally as American Youth Sales, All American Youth Sales, Teens of Today Leaders of Tomorrow, and other names.

Copyright Columbian Publishing Company Sep 17, 1998

M.C. magazine firm tied to Oregon attacks
South Bend Tribune; Indiana; AP; August 16, 1998

Abstract:

CORVALLIS, Ore. -- Two magazine salesmen for an Indiana company have been charged with assault in an attack on the courthouse steps that left a former city councilman in critical condition. Jeremy Delano Kincaid, 19, and James Larry Ramson, 16, who was charged as an adult, both were employed by American Community Services, a Michigan City wholesale distributor of books and magazines, police said. American Community Services employees have been linked to an attempted rape, theft and other local incidents, said Corvallis police Detective Dan Hendrickson. "Whenever they're in town, we get complaints almost daily," Hendrickson said.

©South Bend Tribune -- August 16, 1998
Original URL
southbendtribune.com

DOOR-TO-DOOR SALES FIRM VIOLATES CHILD LABOR LAWS, STATE SAYS
Columbian; Vancouver; BRUCE WESTFALL, Columbian staff writer; Aug 14, 1998;

Abstract:

State officials have filed a lawsuit to halt a door-to-door sales business that recruited teens from Vancouver and elsewhere to sell candy, chamois cloth and other items. It alleges that a business known as American Youth Sales misled customers in Vancouver, Spokane and the Tri-Cities by claiming that the proceeds would benefit an anti-drug and school programs. The business also violated state child labor laws, said state Assistant Attorney General Owen Clarke Jr., by failing to register its young sales force with the state Department of Labor and Industries. Under the scheme, Clarke said, teens were recruited to go door-to-door to tout products. The money was supposedly to help support charitable programs to keep youngsters away from gangs and drugs.

Copyright Columbian Publishing Company Aug 14, 1998

Traveling salesman indicted for sex assault of 9-year-old
Foster's Daily Democrat Somersworth Bureau Chief; FRANK TUTALO; Aug 4, 1998;

Abstract:

SOMERSWORTH -A traveling magazine salesman accused of sexually assaulting a 9-year-old girl in July has been indicted by a Strafford County grand jury. Walter w. Collier, 19, of 1114 Thirty Four Place in Yuma, Ariz. , faces one count each of felonious sexual assault and kidnapping. Both are Class B felonies. Collier, who is being held for lack of bail at Strafford County Jail, allegedly committed the crime while attempting to sell magazines in Sherwood Glen trailer park, police said. It is the first time such a crime has happened in Somersworth, according to police. Court documents state that on July 25 Collier "grabbed" the girl from behind, "covering her mouth, in order to commit a sexual assault." For that alleged act, he faces the kidnapping charge, police said. Police Capt. David Kretschmar said Collier committed the sexual assault after luring the girl to the edge of a wooded area in the trailer park. He held the girl there against her own will in order to commit the sexual assault, Kretschmar added. The girl's family reported to police following the alleged incident. After his arraignment in Somersworth District Court, Collier was ordered to be held on $25,000 cash bail. Collier waived a probable cause hearing after his arrest. Police requested high bail because Collier has no ties to the area and travels all over the country as part of his job. Police claim Collier's job enabled him to commit the alleged sexual assault, and could prompt further offenses. Although he has minor criminal infractions in Arizona, Collier has never been arrested for any similar crimes, police said.

Copyright Foster's Daily Democrat Somersworth Bureau Chief

A Question of Safety and Salesmanship
The Washington Post; Washington, D.C.; Debbie Goldberg; Jul 28, 1998;

Abstract:

Last September, 11-year-old Edward Werner of Jackson Township, N.J., was selling wrapping paper and candy to raise money for his school when he knocked on the wrong door. His body was found two days later, and a neighborhood teen, 15-year-old Sam Manzie, was charged with the slaying. On July 7, a 14-year-old girl was raped in Prince William County, Va., while selling newspaper subscriptions door to door. Both incidents raise questions about the safety of students selling door to door. The Werner tragedy has provoked concern about the appropriateness, in general, of putting schoolchildren to work as sales people. New Jersey Assemblyman Joseph R. Malone III, who represents the town where Werner lived, has introduced legislation banning such sales by students. "We tell second-graders `Never go near a stranger,' then say, `Don't forget, gotta sell that candy,' " Malone said. "It's putting kids at risk."

Copyright The Washington Post Company Jul 28, 1998

WOMAN RECALLS HORROR OF RAPE FEMALE ATTACKER GETS 6-YEAR TERM
Seattle Post-Intelligencer; Seatle Washington; DARRELL GLOVER, P-I Reporter
Mar 7, 1998;

Abstract:

The woman at the door seemed friendly enough. She was selling magazines door-to-door to help get kids off the street. Could she use the phone, she asked. The South Seattle woman agreed and let Bridgette Latrice Brown into her apartment. She even shook Brown's hand. But in seconds, Brown turned vicious and overpowered the woman. She tied her up and repeatedly raped her. Senior Deputy Prosecutor Kathy Goater, head of the Special Assault Unit, said she had ``never seen a case where a woman stranger attacked another woman like this.''

Copyright Seattle Post-Intelligencer Mar 7, 1998

WOMAN RAPIST SENTENCED TO 6 YEARS
Seattle Times. Seattle, Wash.; Author: RONALD K. FITTEN
Mar 6, 1998;

Abstract:

When Bridgette Latrice Brown, 23, knocked on the door of a Seattle woman's home and told her she was selling magazines to help get kids off the streets, the woman believed her. But when Brown asked the woman to take her to a motel, then grabbed a knife and threatened to take her life . . . the woman was shocked. "I have never seen a stranger case," said King County Senior Deputy Prosecutor Kathy Goater, who heads the special assault unit. "A forcible rape of a woman by another woman? It rarely happens. In the context of a strange rape, I've never seen one like this before."

Copyright Seattle Times Mar 6, 1998

LEGISLATORS SEEK TO BAN DOOR-TO-DOOR SALES BY CHILDREN
Record; Bergen County, N.J.; By RALPH SIEGEL,
The Associated Press; Feb 20, 1998;

Abstract:

Society has changed so much that it is no longer safe to let children sell things door-to-door, Assembly lawmakers said Thursday. Edward Werner, the father of an 11-year-old boy who was killed in September while selling candy and gift wrap in his Jackson Township neighborhood, on Thursday spoke out in favor of a ban on such sales. Also present was Maureen Kanka, the mother of 7-year-old Megan Kanka, whose murder in 1994 triggered an unrivaled burst of lawmaking designed to protect children.

Copyright Bergen Evening Record Corporation Feb 20, 1998

Salesman, 21, charged in rape of 67-year-old
Dallas Morning News; Dallas, Tex.; Linda Stewart Ball; Feb 20, 1998;

Abstract:

Plano police on Thursday charged a door-to-door magazine salesman with the aggravated sexual assault of a 67-year-old woman in her southwest Plano home earlier this week. Quinton Jackson, 21, of Houston was being held in the Plano City Jail in lieu of $100,000 bail in connection with the rape, Plano police spokesman Carl Duke said. The woman picked Mr. Jackson, who is employed by American Community Services of Michigan City, Ind., out of a police lineup, Officer Duke said.

Copyright Dallas Morning News; Feb 20, 1998

New schools policy ends door-to-door student sales District 16 officials cite safety concerns
Daily Herald; Arlington Heights;
Erin Chan Daily Herald Correspondent; Jan 15, 1998;

Abstract:

Students in Glendale Heights District 16 are no longer allowed to go door-to-door to sell products for school fund-raisers by themselves. District board member Michael Riech proposed the policy last fall after the killing of an 11-year-old boy in New Jersey. According to police, the student was selling candy door-to-door when he was invited into a house by a 15-year-old boy. Police said the teenager sexually assaulted and strangled the younger boy, prompting parents and schools to rethink their approach to fund-raising.

Copyright Paddock Publications Jan 15, 1998

DEATH OF AN 11-YEAR-OLD SALESMAN
Roanoke Times & World News; Roanoke; Dec 14, 1997;

Abstract:

A New Jersey boy was assaulted and killed while selling candy door to door for his school's PTA. It's a terrible story, but banning such sales is not a logical response. ON SEPT. 27, while selling candy door-to-door for a PTA holiday fund-raiser, 11-year-old Eddie Werner of Jackson Township, N.J., was sexually assaulted and killed. A 15-year-old has been charged with murder. It is a tragic story. And one response to it - a proposed statewide ban on public-school-related fund-raising involving students going door to door - is doubtless well-intentioned.

Copyright Times World Corporation Dec 14, 1997

MURDERER AVOIDS POSSIBLE EXECUTION THROUGH PLEA DEAL
Buffalo News; Buffalo, N.Y.; TOM ERNST - News Staff Reporter;
Aug 20, 1997;

Abstract:

The second defendant in the murders of two young magazine salesmen agreed Tuesday to a plea deal that spares him a possible death sentence in return for a lengthy prison term. Michael W. Grinnell, 25, who was to be the first death-penalty defendant in the state to go on trial, agreed to a plea bargain similar to that granted last December to a co-defendant and admitted that he murdered Adam Chesneck, 18, of Dixon, Ill., and Billy Jo Gilbert Jr., 20, of Terre Haute, Ind., last August in Genesee County. All were among a group of magazine salespeople and supervisors working in the county at the time. The only motive disclosed was that Grinnell, of Massillon, Ohio, and co-defendant Jacob R. Russell, 20, of Elk Grove, Calif., planned to rob a convenience store and feared that Chesneck and Gilbert would alert police. The robbery never occurred, and many were puzzled because the viciousness of the crime seemed so out of proportion.

Copyright Buffalo News Aug 20, 1997

SUMMER JOB SHOULD BE A FIRST, NOT LAST, OPPORTUNITY
Times - Picayune; New Orleans, La.; Jun 11, 1997;

Abstract:

For most teen-agers, summers are a chance to earn money But not all jobs are suited for teen-agers, according to the National Consumers League, which recently released a list of the five worst teen jobs. "The jobs on this list should be a red flag to teens and parents that there are safety concerns," says Linda Golodner, league president. "Any employment has the potential to be a great job or a dangerous one. It's a tragedy when a summer or after-school job is a teen's last job. The caution is well-deserved, given that every year an estimated 200,000 youth are injured on the job and more than 100 are killed."

Copyright Times Picayune Publishing Company Jun 11, 1997

DEATH PENALTY WILL BE SOUGHT
Buffalo News; Buffalo, N.Y.; Jan 8, 1997;

Abstract:

Acting District Attorney Lawrence Friedman announced Tuesday that he will seek the death penalty in the first-degree murder trial of Michael W. Grinnell, 24, in the beating deaths last August of two fellow magazine salesmen.

Copyright Buffalo News Jan 8, 1997

MORE VICTIMS SOUGHT IN SUBSCRIPTION SCAM
San Jose Mercury News, California;
DANIEL VASQUEZ, Mercury News Staff Writer; November 13, 1996;

Abstract:

Police are searching for residents allegedly duped by an 18-year-old door-to-door magazine subscription salesman who had a novel money-making plan: If the customer wasn't home, he'd burglarize the house and bill later. The key to the scam, investigators said, was that top salesman Kevin Lee Mobley would take individual checks or a credit card in each robbery, and then he'd charge subscriptions in small, unnoticeable amounts. Now police are searching for other victims in the Bay Area and three other states where he was known to have worked.

Copyright 1996 San Jose Mercury News

DOOR-TO-DOOR SALESMAN CHARGED WITH MOLESTING GIRL
Spokesman Review; Spokane; Oct 20, 1996;

Abstract:

Police arrested a California salesman Friday for allegedly molesting a young girl while trying to sell magazines in Coeur d'Alene. Post Falls and Coeur d'Alene police helped arrest Robert C. Elizarraraz, 20, on a charge of lewd conduct with a minor.

Copyright 1996 Cowles Publishing Company

TWO MAGAZINE SALESMEN DENY BEATING CO-WORKERS TO DEATH
Buffalo News; Buffalo, N.Y.; BILL BROWN - News Genesee Correspondent;
Sep 14, 1996;

Abstract:

Two magazine salesmen accused in the beating deaths last month of two co-workers pleaded innocent Friday to first-degree murder charges that could lead to the death penalty. Michael J. Grinnell, 24, of Massillon, Ohio, and Jacob R. Russell, 19, of Elk Grove, Calif., entered their pleas during a brief arraignment in Genesee County Court. They were denied bail and will remain in the Genesee County Jail, where they have been held since their arrest the day after the Aug. 27 fatal attacks at a quarry in the Town of Stafford.

Copyright Buffalo News Sep 14, 1996

UNLV officials warn of magazine scam
Las Vegas Review-Journal; Las Vegas; Review-Journal; Dec 21, 1995;

Abstract:

UNLV officials are warning people about a magazine sales scam making the rounds of some Las Vegas neighborhoods. Sales crews of young adults, claiming to be students at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas are going door to door offering magazine subscriptions that the supposed students say will benefit UNLV's communications school.

Copyright Donrey Media Group Dec 21, 1995

ELDERLY WOMAN ATTACKED BY SALESMAN, POLICE SAY
Orlando Sentinel; Orlando, Fla.; Dec 10, 1995;

Abstract:

A magazine salesman revisited the apartment of an 88-year-old woman who turned down a subscription and attacked her, police said Saturday. Samuel A. Erby, 20, was arrested a few minutes after the assault Wednesday. He was in jail Saturday, charged with injury to an elderly person. Police said the salesman tried to suffocate the woman with her scarf. Then he tried to smother her with his hand as she fought him and screamed. He ran away and a neighbor called 911. Police found the woman lying on the floor near her front door. She was treated for cuts and bruises.

Copyright Orlando Sentinel, Orlando, Fla.

Firm illegally selling magazines door-to-door here settles lawsuit
Janet Kelley; Lancaster New Era. Lancaster, Pa.; July 15, 1995;

Abstract:

A Washington business and its president have paid $5,000 to settle accusations stemming from their involvement in the illegal door-to-door sale of magazine subscriptions in southcentral Pennsylvania.

The defendants also agree to make restitution both to consumers who didn't get the subscriptions they paid for and to sales personnel who didn't get promised salaries and bonuses.

A consent petition filed this week in Lancaster County Court identifies the defendants as NCS Corp., Gig Harbor, Wash., and its president, William Gillespie.

In August 1992, the attorney general's office sued NCS and several other corporations.

Among other things, the lawsuit alleged that the defendants:

Charged consumers a $7 "processing fee" that wasn't adequately disclosed or explained.

Failed to properly register with the state.

Used misleading promises to recruit sales personnel, and failed to pay promised salaries and bonuses to their personnel.

Consumers who paid for magazine subscriptions they didn't receive can obtain complaint forms by calling the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Hotline, toll-free, at 1-800-441-2555. They must be filed within 90 days.

(Copyright 1995 Lancaster Newspapers)

BEWARE OF WANT-AD JOB CLAIMS DIRECT-SALES COMPANIES MAY BE RISKY BUSINESS
Sun Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale; ROBIN FIELDS Staff Writer ; May 25, 1995;

Abstract:

As another sweaty South Florida summer rolls around, a young person's thoughts turn to work: What to do for a summer job? Recruiters for unscrupulous direct sales companies lure young people to a hotel or motel for an interview, then convince them to join traveling crews hawking magazine subscriptions, cleaning products, cutlery or other items door-to-door. "You may not know where you're going or how long you're going to be there," said Judy Pepper, vice president of the Better Business Bureau of Palm Beach County. "You often don't have control of the money you take in or are paid, and you may have to pay your own expenses."

Copyright Sun Sentinel, Fort Lauderdale; May 25, 1995

Trial Begins In Wisconsin Boy's Slaying
Chicago Sun - Times; Chicago, Ill.; Nov 9, 1994;

Abstract:

His attorney, Cynthia Wynn, told Circuit Court Judge Jeffrey A. Wagner in her opening statement that police had used John James Smith as a convenient scapegoat and had arrested the wrong man. Wynn contended that Smith's confession was coerced by an intense day of interrogation. "They put words in his mouth. They provided him with a map of the area," Wynn said. "They showed him pictures, making it easy for him to fill in the gaps."

Copyright Chicago Sun Times Nov 9, 1994

Stabbing ruled self defense
St. Petersburg Times; St. Petersburg; PAUL DE LA GARZA; Aug 18, 1994;

Abstract:

Jonathan Novak was on trial for fatally stabbing Gavin Murray of England. In the end, it was the violent act itself that convinced a Hillsborough jury that Novak acted in self defense. Novak, 27, testified he stabbed Murray after Murray and another man attacked him in a downtown parking lot March 4. He told police later he thought he might have been targeted because he is gay. As the family walked out the courtroom, Murray's mother, Sheila, stopped and addressed Novak. "May God have mercy on your soul," she said, speaking in a clear and calm voice across the courtroom.

Copyright Times Publishing Co. Aug 18, 1994

Suspect says stabbing was in self defense Series: Around Town
St. Petersburg Times; St. Petersburg; PAUL DE LA GARZA; Aug 17, 1994;

Abstract:

On the morning of March 4, Gavin Murray of England approached Jonathan Novak's car in downtown Tampa. Moments later, Murray lay on the ground dead, the victim of multiple stab wounds to the chest. Novak, 27, who went on trial Monday on charges of second-degree murder, says he stabbed Murray in self defense, fearing he was being attacked because he is gay. The prosecution says the stabbing was unprovoked.

Copyright Times Publishing Co. Aug 17, 1994

SALESMAN IS CHARGED IN BOY'S STRANGULATION
Times - Picayune; New Orleans, La.; Jun 30, 1994;

Abstract:

A door-to-door salesman is charged with strangling a 9-year-old boy whose nude body was found a block away from his suburban home.

John James Smith, 19, of Carol Stream, Ill., was charged Monday in Circuit Court with first-degree intentional homicide and child abduction in the death of Jesse Hubatch of Franklin.

Copyright Times Picayune Publishing Company Jun 30, 1994

Door-to-door salesman charged with slaying boy, 9
Journal Star; Peoria, Ill.; Jun 29, 1994;

Abstract:

According to the criminal complaint, John James Smith told Franklin police that after he met Jesse Hubatch, they talked, walked around the neighborhood and then went to the wooded area. According to the complaint, he said the "thing he remembered about killing Jesse Hubatch was Jesse Hubatch's eyes and that they just kept staring at him, a naked blank stare, that he could see death in Jesse Hubatch's eyes as he strangled him."

Copyright Peoria Journal Star Inc. Jun 29, 1994

Suburb Man Admits Killing Boy, Cops Say
Chicago Sun - Times; Chicago, Ill.; Jun 28, 1994;

Abstract:

John James Smith stated that the "thing he remembered about killing [Jesse Hubatch] was Jesse Hubatch's eyes and that they just kept staring at him, a naked blank stare, that he could see death in Jesse Hubatch's eyes as he strangled him," the criminal complaint said. Hubatch vanished Thursday evening after leaving home to visit a neighborhood friend, prompting a search of the suburb south of Milwaukee. The boy's naked body was found a block away Friday afternoon in the brush adjoining a neighbor's backyard.

Copyright Chicago Sun Times Jun 28, 1994

SOME TRAVELING SALES JOBS ARE A BAD TRIP
Seattle Post - Intelligencer; Seattle, Wash.; May 27, 1993;
Don Tewkesbury; P-I Reporter;

Abstract:

Those who respond may end up like the hard-working coal miner in the song, "Sixteen Tons," who discovered he owed "his soul to the company store." The young people may end up working only "to get another day older and deeper in debt." Such ads usually solicit teenagers and young adults to become part of traveling sales crews that sell magazine subscriptions or cleaning products door-to-door across the country. In many cases, the employment ad does not give the name of the company or the nature of the work, but lists a local phone number and the name of a recruiter. The job interview usually takes place in a local hotel or motel and, if the young person accepts the job, he or she is asked to leave within a few hours or a day and join a team of employees already in the field. The living conditions are usually cramped and allow little personal freedom. Meals and personal items must be bought with a nightly dole. In some crews, employees do not receive paychecks. Their earnings remain "on the books." Their sales are credited to an account by the crew manager, who then may deduct hotel expenses, the nightly allowance, canceled orders and fines for "misconduct."

Copyright SEATTLE POST INTELLIGENCER May 27, 1993

Tips for consumers
Herald; Rock Hill, S.C.; Jim Appleby Better Business Bureau; May 16, 1993;

Abstract:

The living conditions are usually cramped and allow little personal freedom. Meals and personal items must be bought with a nightly dole. In some crews, employees do not receive paychecks; their earnings remain "on the books." Their sales are credited to an account by the crew manager, who then may deduct hotel expenses, canceled orders, fines for "misconduct" and the nightly allowance. Often employees end up in debt to the sales organization, or so they are told, and therefore are unable to leave if they want to.

Copyright The Herald May 16, 1993