Detectives from the Missing Persons Squad are hopeful that today’s announcement of a $1 million reward will assist in solving the suspicious disappearance of Mooroolbark girl, Cherie Westall.
Cherie, who was days away from her 16th birthday at the time, was last seen on Tuesday, 12 December, 2000 in Wantirna South.
Cherie was dropped off at Knox Dental Group at about 12pm for a dentist appointment. Cherie attended the dentist and left the practice at around 12.30pm.
At 1.58pm, Cherie telephoned home from a public telephone box situated on the corner of Selkirk Avenue and Wantirna Road, approximately five kilometres from the dentist.
Cherie spoke to a family member to let them know she intended to catch a train home to Ringwood. That was the last known contact anyone had with her.
At the time, Cherie was a ward of the state. Her previous foster mother, Frances, tried to make a police report immediately but was told a biological family member was required for that to occur.
As a result, the missing persons report was not filed until six days later. When Cherie was reported missing, an investigation commenced, however any trace of Cherie was unable to be located.
A coronial inquest occurred in 2003, with the coroner finding that Cherie has most likely died.
Police are of the belief that Cherie most likely met with foul play.
Police have spoken to and been assisted by several witnesses over the past 22 years and investigators continue to pursue new information.
Detectives are hoping that today’s reward announcement will encourage someone with information about the Cherie’s disappearance to come forward.
Police are today releasing images of Cherie as part of this appeal.
A reward of up to $1M will be paid at the discretion of the Chief Commissioner of Police, for information leading to the apprehension and subsequent conviction of the person or persons responsible for Cherie’s disappearance.
The Director of Public Prosecutions will consider, according to established guidelines, the granting of indemnification from prosecution to any person who provide information as to the identity of the principal offender or offenders in this matter.
Any information given will be treated confidential and may be given at any time to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.auExternal Link
Quotes attributable to Detective Acting Inspector Tony Combridge, Missing Persons Squad:
“22 years ago, a young teenage girl called her family to let them know she was on her way home, and that was the last time they ever spoke to her. It is every family’s worst nightmare.
“Cherie, in the words of her family, was a normal teenager who loved horses, sport, art and music. She was loved by her family and friends, who are all hoping they can find some answers as to what happened to her.
“Those responsible for Cherie’s disappearance have had to live with this secret for over two decades. 22 years is a very long time to be looking over your shoulder.
“After so long, friendships falter and allegiances change. There may be people out there who are now in a position to come forward and speak to police to provide answers for Cherie’s loved ones.
“It doesn’t matter how insignificant you think the piece of information is, it could be exactly what our investigators need to make a breakthrough in this case.”
“Now is the time to do the right thing and come forward. Any information received by police will be investigated thoroughly, and we will continue to search for the truth of what happened to Cherie to provide those answers to her loved ones and the community.
“I want to make it clear that if you have concerns about a loved one who has gone missing, we would always encourage you to come and speak to police.
“You don’t have to wait 24 hours to report someone missing. You can report someone as missing to your local police where there are fears for the person’s welfare and safety, and their whereabouts are unknown.”
