Published: March 28, 2008 10:50 pm      

Family creates Web site to help in search for missing teen

CLINTON — Family and friends of Ben Roseland have set up a Web site in an effort to assist in the desperate search for their missing loved one, who was last seen on Feb. 9.

Benroseland.com was created by Ann Capion, a friend of Roseland’s family, to provide up-to-date information on search efforts, as well as recent photographs of Roseland and links to informational Web sites.

“I grew up with Ben’s dad,” Capion said in a phone interview with the Clinton Herald, noting she lived next door to Roseland’s father Jim, as well as his parents and eight siblings, for nearly 40 years. “They really are family to me. I’ve known them my entire life.”

Capion, who works as an accountant and lives in Reynolds, Ill., felt compelled to set up the site after researching other missing person Web sites, to provide a central place to direct people for information.

“Anything we could do to help out, we wanted to do it,” said Capion, who was assisted in her endeavor by friend Diane Litterst. “It’s kind of hard to physically get up there from here, but this is one way we can help out.”

Capion noted one of her favorite features of the site is the guestbook, which allows visitors to sign in and leave words of encouragement for Roseland’s family. She has also included links to recent media reports on the search for Roseland, and hopes to eventually provide a calendar of events on upcoming search parties.

“The (extended Roseland) family is one of the closest families I’ve ever met,” Capion said. “They would do anything for each other, and I know they’d do anything for me if I ever needed it. I’m just glad to help them in any way I can.”

Roseland, who was last seen by friends after leaving the 400 block of 10th Avenue South and heading for Hy-Vee, is described by officials as a white male, standing 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighing 175 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. Anyone with any information is urged to contact the Clinton Police Department at 243-1458.