SEQUESTERED Podcast: Tara Calico – Disappeared in 1988 (Belen, NM) | Part Two
Host: Sarah Reid
Release Date: July 7, 2025
Season: Two, Episode Three
Production: Road Trip Studios
Introduction
In the second part of the Tara Calico case, host Sarah Reid delves deeper into the mysterious disappearance of Tara Calico, a 19-year-old college student from Belen, New Mexico. Following her last known sighting during a routine bike ride on September 20, 1988, Tara vanished without a trace, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions and lingering hope.
The Mysterious Polaroid Photo
Discovery and Initial Impact
On June 15, 1989, nearly nine months after Tara's disappearance, a pivotal piece of evidence surfaced—a chilling Polaroid photograph found in a Florida parking lot. The image depicted two bound and gagged children in what appeared to be the back of a van or camper. The woman who discovered the photo immediately recognized the girl as her missing daughter, Tara.
Quote:
"It's chilling. I mean, just imagine you're just walking out of a convenience store on a normal Thursday afternoon... And there it is. A photo on the ground."
— Sarah Reid [00:12]
Investigation Intensifies
Police Response and Skepticism
Upon receiving the photo, authorities were quick to act. The police flagged the image, and Tara's family was contacted immediately. Tara's mother, Patty Dole, was convinced it was her daughter due to the distinct features and personal items visible in the photo. However, not all authorities shared this certainty. The Valencia County Sheriff's Office and the FBI conducted facial recognition testing, which ultimately returned inconclusive results.
Connection to Michael Henley
An unexpected twist emerged when the boy in the photo was thought to resemble Michael Henley, a nine-year-old boy who had disappeared earlier that year from New Mexico. Tragically, Henley's remains were found in the Zuni Mountains in 1990, reportedly due to exposure, with no signs of abduction, deepening the mystery.
Quote:
"The case went to the district attorney's office for review about three months ago. We're told right now, a team is working to go through three decades worth of police files in order to sign off on charges."
— Lt. Rowland [07:10]
2008 Sheriff's Revelations
Accusations and Community Shock
In 2008, Valencia County Sheriff Rene Rivera publicly claimed that his office had identified Tara's killer—two teenage boys from Berlin, New Mexico. According to Rivera, these locals had followed Tara, resulting in a fatal confrontation that was subsequently covered up with the help of community members. However, Rivera did not provide concrete evidence or names, leading to widespread skepticism and accusations of a local cover-up.
Quote:
"All we need is a lead or a piece of evidence to move forward."
— Sheriff Rene Rivera [08:00]
Ongoing Theories and Speculations
Diverse Suspicions
Over the years, several theories have emerged regarding Tara's disappearance:
- Stranger Abduction: Some believe Tara was kidnapped by outsiders, possibly for human trafficking, as suggested by the Polaroid photo.
- Local Involvement: Others suspect local acquaintances or enforcement officials were involved, fueled by Rivera's statements.
- David Parker Ray Connection: Theories also linked the notorious "Toy Box Killer," David Parker Ray, who operated a ranch near Tara's disappearance site. However, the FBI later ruled him out.
- Evidence Mishandling: There are whispers about key evidence being lost, destroyed, or never collected, including a pink bike, underwear with Tara's initials, and a mysterious suitcase.
Recent Developments
Sealed Search Warrants and Renewed Hope
In September 2021, investigators served a sealed search warrant at a private residence in Valencia County, signaling renewed investigative vigor. Lt. Joseph Rowland confirmed the action was directly related to Tara's case, though details remained under wraps. This move marked the most significant investigative step in years, hinting that the truth might finally emerge.
Quote:
"There is sufficient evidence to submit this investigation to the district attorney's office."
— Sheriff Denise Vigil [18:24]
2023 Breakthrough Announcement
Nearly two years later, in June 2023, Sheriff Denise Vigil announced a significant breakthrough. Although the specifics remained sealed by the court, Vigil stated that sufficient evidence had been gathered to forward the case to the district attorney's office for possible charges. This development energized Tara's family and the community, igniting cautious optimism that justice may finally be within reach.
Current Status and Ongoing Efforts
Persistent Advocacy and Unyielding Hope
Despite decades of silence, Tara Calico's family has never ceased their quest for answers. Patty Dole, Tara's mother, became a relentless advocate, appearing on platforms like "Oprah," "Unsolved Mysteries," and "America's Most Wanted." She famously carried a copy of the Polaroid photo daily, symbolizing her unwavering hope.
Quote:
"Until we find Tara, that photo is my proof that she might still be alive."
— Patty Dole [Narrative]
Active Investigation
As of the podcast's release, the case remains open. The FBI continues to offer a $20,000 reward for information leading to Tara's recovery or the conviction of those responsible. Investigators believe they are closer to uncovering the truth, but the sealed nature of recent revelations leaves many questions unanswered.
Conclusion
Tara Calico's disappearance remains one of New Mexico's most enduring mysteries. From the haunting Polaroid found in Florida to the controversial claims of local officials and recent investigative strides, the case encapsulates the frustrating interplay between hope and ambiguity. As SEQUESTERED Season Two, Episode Three, concludes, listeners are left with a poignant reminder of Tara's enduring legacy and the relentless pursuit of justice by her family and dedicated investigators.
Final Quote:
"Tara Calico never made it home. But the truth still can."
— Sarah Reid [19:16]
If you have any information about Tara Calico’s disappearance, please contact the Valencia County Sheriff's Office at 505-866-2400, the FBI at 1-800-FBI-FOR-YOU, or visit tips.FBI.gov.
Subscribe to SEQUESTERED on Apple Podcasts for exclusive early access and ad-free episodes. Visit SequesteredPod.com for additional photos, updates, and comprehensive coverage of every case featured on the podcast.