Behrman case continues

Following an extensive search of the Morgan County site where Jill Behrman's remains were found last week, investigators packed up March 18, and moved along to the next steps in the process, including analysis of evidence.\nSkeletal remains discovered by hunters weeks ago were identified as those of Behrman, an IU student missing since May 2000.\nIndiana State Police Sgt. Dave Bursten said 22 recruits from the ISP Academy found additional bones along Duckworth Road shortly before noon March 18. \nHe said his crew of investigators exhausted the site and now must move on to other steps in the process.\nMorgan County Coroner Dan Downing is leading the analysis of the remains in order to gain any pertinent information for the investigation. \nDowning said he is currently working with Dr. Steve Nawrocki, forensic anthropologist at the University of Indianapolis. Nawrocki is reassembling the skeletal remains and will identify if any injuries were sustained during death. \nDowning said his office has received the majority of the remains so far. \nHe said the process has gone well, but a completion date for their portion of the investigation is uncertain. \n"It depends on the investigation," he said. "It's hard to say when it will be complete. We want to work as quickly as possible, but we must maintain the dignity of the search."\nIn addition, Morgan County Prosecutor Steve Sonnega said he will increase communication with Monroe County Prosecutor Carl Salzmann to share facts to hopefully arrest and convict someone for the incident. \nThe Behrman family themselves is also participating in the process. Jill's father Eric Behrman said he's cooperating with police to assist the investigation.\n"The police investigation is still continuing, and our family looks forward to assisting in any way possible," he said in a statement to the public.\nEric Behrman added that his family will not speak to media from now on, but will announce final plans for a memorial service once they are decided.\n"We appreciate your concern and ask that you respect our family's wishes at this most difficult time," he said.\nThe recent news has also increased community support for the Behrman family and the organizations set up in Jill's honor.\nPeg Howard, president of Jill's House, a foundation set up to raise funds to create a 20 bedroom home for cancer patients, said she expressed her support for the entire family.\n"We will continue to work to produce some good of out this tragedy," she said.\nHoward said her organization has reached only $500,000 of their $5 million goal to fund the patient's home, but hopes that the community support in connection with the recent developments will translate into increased service to the community.