Judith Richardson Haimes, a mother of six, has been involved in around 100 criminal investigations across the northeastern United States using her psychic abilities. Despite her extensive experience, she found cases involving missing children to be particularly challenging. Among her most notable cases was the disappearance of 8-year-old Gretchen Harrington in 1975.
The Disappearance of Gretchen Harrington
In August 1975, Gretchen Harrington went missing while on her way to Bible camp in Marple, Pennsylvania. By September of that year, Richardson Haimes was consulted by the police. During a session, she made a distressing prediction, saying, “Oh my God, she’s dead.” Sadly, Harrington’s remains were found a month later.
Recent Developments and Arrest
Nearly fifty years after Harrington’s disappearance, David G. Zandstra, a former pastor and friend of the Harrington family, was charged with her murder and kidnapping. The charges came after Zandstra’s daughter’s acquaintance came forward with information about Zandstra’s troubling behavior. The prosecution claims Zandstra confessed to killing Harrington after offering to drive her to a secluded area.
Richardson Haimes’ Perspective and Methodology
Richardson Haimes recalled her feelings about the case, noting she had a strong impression that the perpetrator was someone associated with the Sunday or Bible school. She followed strict guidelines, only working on cases referred to her by police and keeping her involvement discreet for safety reasons. She recounted an incident where she was targeted after assisting with a case involving a headless torso.
Transition from Professional Work to Personal Readings
In 1977, Richardson Haimes stopped her professional psychic work due to a brain bleed caused by an allergic reaction to medication. This medical issue led to a landmark lawsuit against Temple University, which was eventually overturned. Though she no longer suffers severe headaches, she now conducts readings only for personal use. Richardson Haimes sees her abilities as a highly developed instinct rather than something supernatural. Despite skepticism, she is satisfied that Harrington’s case has been resolved.
