CONSTANTINE Mich., (April 22, 2014)– Jodi Parrack’s mother, Valerie “Jo” Gilson, spoke out Tuesday during a news conference following the arrest of Raymond McCann.
McCann, a former Constantine reserve police officer, was charged with perjury after investigators say he lied about several things regarding the case and his actions the day of Jodi’s murder. McCann hasn’t been charged with murder but investigators claim he knows something.
Gilson says most of the McCann family is like family to them and now they are both hoping for answers following his arrest.
Gilson says she has known McCann for years and Jodi was friends with his son along with other kids in the McCann family.
Among the supporters Tuesday was McCann’s sister-in-law and one of Gilson’s best friends, Julie McCann.
Gilson says she doesn’t know what to think other than the fact that Ray is a liar, she says it’s time for him to tell the truth and “get it over with.”
Gilson says she’s been suspicious of him for about three years and he’s the only person she’s suspicious of.
“I’m glad he’s in jail because at least he’s not living his life while the murder investigation continues, because regardless I believe he is involved,” she said.
Ray’s sister-in-law Julie said she didn’t expect this out of him, “but when I seen that mug shot and the look in his eyes, I mean it just sent chills down my spine.”
Julie says he distanced himself form the family following the murder and that raised questions for her, and like so many in the small community she just wants justice for Jodi.
Both said this is not the end but just the beginning. Meanwhile, investigators aren’t saying what McCann might know or if he’s responsible only that they’re confident he’s hiding something.
Monday, Contsantine Police Chief Jim Bedell said McCann has been a person of interest since the beginning. He is due back in court next week.
