The 1984 disappearance of 12-year-old Jonelle Matthews from her Greeley, Colorado home haunted the community for decades. The discovery of her remains in 2019, along with the subsequent trial of former Idaho gubernatorial candidate Steve Pankey, brought the chilling case back into the spotlight. This in-depth analysis delves into the complexities of the trial, examining the evidence, Pankey’s peculiar behavior, and the lingering questions surrounding Jonelle’s tragic fate.
Steve Pankey, a former Idaho gubernatorial candidate, pictured in an undated photo provided by the Weld County District Attorney’s Office. Pankey was charged in the 1984 disappearance and death of Jonelle Matthews.
Pankey, who lived near the Matthews family in Greeley at the time of Jonelle’s disappearance, became a person of interest due to his unusual fascination with the case and his alleged knowledge of undisclosed details. He was ultimately charged with murder, kidnapping, and other counts related to Jonelle’s death. The trial, which captivated the nation, unfolded with Pankey taking the stand in his own defense.
Pankey’s testimony proved to be both rambling and revealing. He vehemently denied any involvement in Jonelle’s disappearance, claiming he did not know the girl or her family. He attributed his apparent knowledge of the case to a deep-seated resentment towards the police, his former church, and his former employer, all of whom he wanted investigated. He further elaborated on his hatred of what he perceived as racist police officers and the bullying he endured for his bisexuality. These digressions, while seemingly irrelevant, painted a picture of a complex individual with a history of grievances.
The prosecution presented a contrasting narrative, arguing that Pankey’s obsession with the case, coupled with his inconsistent statements and alleged possession of undisclosed information, pointed towards his guilt. They highlighted Pankey’s continued interest in the case over the years, even as he relocated his family to various states before settling in Idaho.
Pankey’s defense team, led by Anthony Viorst, offered a different perspective. They argued that Pankey’s fascination stemmed from an obsession with true crime and his Asperger syndrome, a condition they claimed led him to insert himself into high-profile cases to bolster his self-importance. This defense strategy sought to explain Pankey’s behavior as a product of his neurological condition rather than evidence of guilt.
Jennifer Mogensen, Jonelle Matthews’ adopted sister, holds a poster of Jonelle. The poster was used during the search efforts following Jonelle’s disappearance in 1984.
A crucial piece of testimony came from Pankey’s ex-wife, Angela Hicks. She contradicted Pankey’s claim that they had planned a trip to California before Jonelle’s disappearance. Hicks testified that the trip was decided upon abruptly on December 21, 1984, the day after Jonelle vanished. This discrepancy raised questions about Pankey’s whereabouts and motives surrounding the time of the disappearance.
The circumstances surrounding Jonelle’s disappearance remain haunting. She was last seen entering her family home after being dropped off by a friend following a Christmas concert. Just an hour later, when her father returned home, she was gone without a trace. The discovery of her remains decades later, with evidence of a fatal gunshot wound, confirmed the tragic end to her story.
The prosecution meticulously presented evidence, including Pankey’s own statements and his ex-wife’s testimony, aiming to establish a connection between Pankey and Jonelle’s disappearance and death. The defense, in turn, focused on Pankey’s mental state and his fascination with true crime, attempting to portray his actions as eccentric but ultimately harmless.
The complexities of the case, the conflicting narratives, and the passage of time presented significant challenges for both the prosecution and the defense. The jury was tasked with sifting through decades-old evidence and conflicting testimonies to determine Pankey’s culpability.
This case underscores the enduring impact of unsolved crimes on families and communities. The search for justice for Jonelle Matthews spanned decades, highlighting the dedication of law enforcement and the resilience of her loved ones.
The trial of Steve Pankey in the death of Jonelle Matthews serves as a stark reminder of the intricacies of criminal investigations and the challenges of piecing together the truth in cold cases. While the trial has concluded, the lingering questions and the tragic loss of a young life continue to resonate. The case remains a testament to the enduring pursuit of justice and the complexities of human behavior. The legacy of Jonelle Matthews, a young girl whose life was tragically cut short, serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of vigilance and community support in protecting vulnerable individuals.
