SEARCH FOR STEPHANOS…AN EMOTIONAL JOB


I am writing this article on Friday, May 25, 2007 and by the time it appears in the Enfield Press my hope and prayers is that Stephanos Rodriguez is safely home with his family.

Stephanos Rodriguez was last seen at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, May 19th. The boy's parents told police it is out of character for Stephanos not to return home for his 10 p.m. curfew.

As of last night there has been no sign of Stephanos Rodriguez. The latest search has taken law enforcement to the Connecticut River, where a friend stated that Stephanos fell out of a canoe. Towns located south of Enfield have been alerted to the situation and asked to keep their eyes open for the boy.

This morning the search continues in the river and the police are following up many other tips, as well. From my discussion with town leaders the search even involved interviewing carnival workers of the carnival that left the Enfield Mall the weekend of Stepanos disappearance. “No stone is going unturned”, according to Chief of Police, Carl Sferrazza.

I cannot imagine the pain his mother and family are going through at this time. I know our entire town is praying that this event will end with a hug and affectionate kiss by mom.

I have, in the past week, spoken with the Enfield Chief of Police, and a couple of Councilman who have taken great interest in the missing of Stephanos. Everyone involved in the search should be praised for the around the clock effort being made to find this young teen.

From my observation the Enfield Police and area’s Fire Department have had long days and sleepless nights in the search. Their desire to bring this boy home is not just a duty of job, but a passion for their community.

The local emergency teams that respond to these types of events have a difficult job to say the least. The police, firemen, and women prepare daily to protect and serve our community. However, is there really an emotional preparation for searching for a missing child?

The people who we call first responders all have families, many of which are children. It would be impossible to detach your emotions from the job that you have been called to do.

With each tip or new information brings an adrenaline rush of hope. Then as the information does not result in success the emotions have to be suppressed and the work begins all over again.

I am sure that every time the phone rings the officers and firemen all jump with anticipation to hear positive news. But, then it becomes surreal when there is no news. Can you imagine the emotional roller coaster these great people go through in times like this?

I write about this topic because we need to, as a community, express our appreciation for law enforcement and fire personnel. These brave citizens have a tough job and their emotions are strained often as they seek to protect us.

Let us keep in prayer the people who are involved in the search. Their job is incredibly tough. Nevertheless, they are up to the task and their efforts are greatly appreciated.


Like, I said at the beginning of this article Stephanos has not yet be found. By the time this makes the paper we all may be rejoicing about a positive outcome. It is our hope and prayer for such an outcome!

But just in case this search is continuing I close this brief submission with information about Stephanos Rodriguez.

Stephanos is white with blond hair, 5 feet tall, and 106 pounds. He was last seen wearing blue jeans, a gray hooded shirt, and white sneakers.Anyone with information about the boy is asked to call Enfield police at 860-763-8911.