Nearly two months after a Seward man was found dead, Seward Police have forwarded the findings from their homicide investigation to the Kenai District Attorney’s Office for review.
The disappearance of Preston Atwood, 21, was ruled a homicide by police on Sept. 19, about three weeks after he was first reported missing on Aug. 28. The missing persons bulletin indicated that Atwood had last been seen on Aug. 25 at Fourth of July Beach and again on Aug. 27 near the entrance to First Lake Park.
Atwood was reportedly using crutches on Aug. 25 but was not during the Aug. 27 sighting.
Seward Police Chief Tom Clemons did not comment on where the body was found or whether any suspects were interviewed as part of the investigation.
When asked about the length of time between the body being located and the findings being sent to the DA’s office, Clemons said that both the limited resources of the department and his intention to “protect the integrity” of everyone involved were factors in the duration of the investigation.
“This is a small community, and (Atwood’s) family are friends of mine,” Clemons said. “I’ve been doing this for almost 50 years, and one thing I know is that you can’t rush these things. When you rush, you make mistakes.”
Clemons told the Clarion on Thursday that the entire police force, himself included, were involved in locating the body and conducting the investigation, but only one officer was responsible for compiling the findings from the investigation and preparing it for the DA’s office.
The Seward Police Department has a total of 10 officers on staff, Clemons said.
In Alaska, a defendant’s right to a speedy trial requires that their case be tried within 120 days of an arrest being made or charges being filed. Clemons said that his department wanted to ensure the case was fully put together without being under any time constraints, which is why no suspects have yet been arrested in relation to the case.
Clemons said he was satisfied with the investigation his officers conducted and “felt good” about the case moving forward. The onus is now on the District Attorney to decide whether to press charges. Kenai District Attorney Scot Leaders did not respond to a phone call from the Clarion requesting comment on the case.
