Ep 5. Lost in Love County

In episode 5 of Up and Vanished season 2, titled "Lost in Love County," host Payne Lindsey and his team delve into the case of Molly Miller and her friend Colt Haynes, who both disappeared in Love County, Oklahoma in July 2013.

Lindsey opens the episode with a recap of previous developments in the case, including the discovery of the truck the pair was last seen driving. He notes that despite extensive searches and investigation, there is still no sign of Molly or Colt.

The episode then dives into interviews with family members and law enforcement officials involved in the case. In particular, Lindsey focuses on the role of the Love County Sheriff's Office (LCSO) and their handling of the initial investigation.

According to Lindsey's sources, the LCSO turned down offers of assistance from other law enforcement agencies and failed to follow up on important leads. One source even alleges that the LCSO destroyed evidence related to the case.

In response to these accusations, Lindsey contacts Sheriff Joe Russell of the LCSO for an interview. Russell denies any wrongdoing and insists that his department did everything in their power to find Molly and Colt.

The episode also features conversations with private investigator Philip Klein, who was hired by Molly's family to assist in the search. Klein alleges that he was able to obtain evidence and witnesses that the LCSO ignored.

As the investigation continues, Lindsey explores the possibility that Molly and Colt's disappearance may be related to drugs and the local criminal underworld. He interviews several residents of Love County who claim that drug-related activity is rampant in the area and that law enforcement turns a blind eye to it.

Finally, Lindsey speaks with Molly's mother and sister, who express frustration with the lack of progress in the case and their desire for closure. They describe the toll that Molly's disappearance has taken on their family and their hope that the Up and Vanished podcast will bring new attention and leads to the case.

Overall, "Lost in Love County" is a gripping and emotional episode that highlights the challenges of investigating a disappearance in a small, tight-knit community and the importance of collaboration and thoroughness in law enforcement investigations.