Kali Manley’s Parents Urge Cooperation With Police

In a heartfelt public appeal, the parents of slain teenager Kali Manley have asked that those who are withholding information out of fear come forward and share it with authorities.

“We are now again on a search, the search for truth,” Charles and Holly Manley wrote in a letter dated Dec. 30. “We want every parent to discuss with their children the importance of speaking freely with the dedicated friends of Kali who work for law enforcement.”

Sheriff’s officials complained earlier this week that some who knew the prime suspect, David Alvarez, were not cooperating with investigators. The Manleys’ letter urged them to do so:

“Share this letter to those cloaked in ignorance and fear and assure them that truth can set them free.”

The body of the 14-year-old was found last weekend in an icy drainage pipe 30 miles from Ojai. Alvarez led officers to Kali’s body last Saturday after a weeklong search by hundreds of volunteers.

Alvarez, 22, of Ojai, who is being held for an unrelated crime, is expected to be booked on suspicion of murder next week.

In the brief letter released to newspapers, the Manleys thanked all those people who had reached out and helped, either by searching for Kali or offering comfort throughout their ordeal.

“Our tragedy galvanized a community and we are all better for it,” they wrote.

In particular, the Manleys thanked the Sheriff’s Department and its Search and Rescue Team, the Ojai police, the Ojai Valley Bank and the Ventura County Victim Advocates. They also offered “a hug to Tim Hagel and Rhett Searcy and Pastor Paul Bergmann.” The Manleys closed their letter by asking that the community “go forward without hate.”

“We have suffered a terrible, needless loss,” they wrote. “We do not wish it compounded by anger, hatred and fear. As this event continues to unfold, remember Kali’s spirit and love. Please remember the days of prayer and effort you put forth as a positive contribution. You are good people.”