New Break In Case Of Missing Lakeland Pilot
First time Ive posted a story so I'm not sure if I'm doing it right...Hope so...here goes....
FBI agents in Maitland gave an update Tuesday on their progress in the case of Robert Wiles, 26.
"During this investigation, we have actually identified a key suspect and individuals of interest that are associated with that individual, as well as them being familiar with Robert," said FBI special agent Dave Couvertier.
It has been 10 months since Wiles was last seen, but for his parents, that is 10 months too long.
"Every day, you wake up in the morning from a deep relaxing sleep, and you get up and this wave just comes over you of the reality that you don't have your son," said Pamela Wiles, Robert's mother.
Agents told News 13 Wiles' parents received a ransom note just after their son disappeared, but they have not heard from the kidnappers since, even after paying the ransom.
"We have to have hope," Pamela Wiles said. "The FBI has helped sustain that hope. We have two daughters that helped sustain that, [and we have] a lot of the public's support. You just have to. You have to hold on. We're just waiting for closure."
Wiles' parents said they believe the suspects knew their son and his daily routine, and had inside information about his company.
The family said they hope a $250,000 reward would encourage someone with information to help them find their son.
"I'm hoping someone out there, please step forward. We are willing to do whatever it takes, whatever you need to help protect you and help you start a new life, and keep you out of this," Pamela Wiles said. "Whatever it is, we are willing to work with them."
Wiles' father, Thomas Wiles, said no matter what the motive, they just want the kidnappers to tell them where Robert is.
"I love you Robert. I want you back," Thomas Wiles said.
Agents said the key suspect and persons of interest live or work in Lakeland, Orlando or Melbourne. No names were released.
If you have information on the kidnapping of Robert Wiles, call the FBI's Tampa office at (866) 838-1153 or 813-253-1000.
Anonymous tips also can be mailed to the FBI at: 5525 W. Gray St., Tampa FL 33609. Or you can ask someone from the clergy or an attorney to contact the agency on your behalf; the FBI says it is will honor confidentiality.
The family also has an e-mail available for information. Send any leads to them at
missing@nationalflight.com.