Lachman Charles - Footsteps in the Snow: One Shocking Crime. Two Shattered Families. And the Coldest Case in U.S. History

This book could not have been written without the full cooperation of the Ridulph and Tessier families. I am deeply indebted to Chuck Ridulph and Pat Ridulph Quinn. The Tessiers have also been extraordinarily generous and open with me. They all have my sincere thanks, especially Jeanne, Janet, Bob, and Mary.

Jack McCullough has my appreciation for agreeing to cooperate with the research of this book, as do his wife, Sue McCullough; his stepdaughter Janey OConner; and her husband, Casey Porter, who all continue to champion his innocence.

Doris Cross is a wonderful editor and made indispensable contributions to the manuscript.

Thanks also to Seattle detectives Michael Mike Ciesynski and Cloyd Steiger and Sycamore detectives Dan Hoffman and Tiffany Ziegler. Dave Zulawski gave me fascinating insight into the tradecraft of police interrogations. Joseph Giacalone, a retired NYPD detective sergeant, offered his unique perspective on cold-case investigations.

Many people in Illinois and Washington State and elsewhere have been supportive throughout this long process, including Kathy Sigman Chapman, Mike Chapman, Jan Edwards, and Michelle Weinman. The two living ex-wives of Jack McCullough didnt want to be identified by name in this book, but they have my gratitude.

Kay Ridulphs son Lawrence Larry Hickey Jr. was kind enough to permit me to use excerpts from his late mothers diaries.

Several journalists have tackled the Maria Ridulph case, and I would like to recognize the outstanding work of Greg Fisher, Judy Rybak, and Erin Moriarty of 48 Hours; CNNs Ann ONeill; and the staff of the Daily Chronicle in Sycamore and its editor, Eric Olson.

TV producer and author Charlie Carillo gave me excellent suggestions. James Cunsolo and Jarrod Cushing helped design the books internal graphics.

My literary agent, Paul Fedorko, believed in this project from the first night we met to discuss it and never gave up. He is an exceptional agent and advisor. Carole Cooper, of N. S. Bienstock talent agency, has been another important advocate in my television and writing career. I am indebted to Tom Colgan, executive editor at The Berkley Publishing Group, for acquiring Footsteps in the Snow.

Let me end by acknowledging the encouragement and love of my wife, Nancy Glass, who read Footsteps in manuscript form and contributed in meaningful ways to the final product, and to our children, Max, Pamela, and Sloane. May all their dreams come true.