Ricky Holland Vanished

Lisa Holland was sentenced today in a Lansing courthouse by Judge Paula Manderfield to life without the possibility of parole for the first-degree murder of her adopted son Ricky Holland of Williamston Township, Michigan. The charge of first-degree child abuse was vacated to avoid the possibility of being sentenced under the rule of double jeopardy.

Most people are happy with the verdict and the sentencing. Many would have liked to see Tim Holland receive the same sentence. Lisa Holland’s sister expressed her disappointment at the verdict and the sentencing stating that her sister is innocent of the charges and that Tim Holland is the guilty party.

It was visible that Lisa Holland had been crying but she declined to speak on her own behalf prior to the sentence being handed down.

Judge Paula Manderfield, paused a few times to choke back sobs during the sentencing. She stated that Lisa Holland buried the family dog but threw her child. She said it was her privilege to sentence Lisa the Michigan Department of Corrections to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Stuart Dunnings III indicated he was ordering the Department of Human Services to release the report regarding the investigation into Ricky’s murder and his time in foster care. The report is expected to be released to the public by Friday.

Stuart Dunnings did not indicate when Ricky’s remains may be released for burial.

I have many questions regarding what happened to Ricky. Unless Lisa Holland decides to speak one day to someone the secret of what happened to Ricky and why will remain with her for the rest of her life.

I am disappointed that the people responsible for placing Ricky in the Holland home and not taking action when abuse was reported are not going to have to answer to criminal charges. It is my opinion that they are criminally responsible for Ricky’s death and need to be held accountable.

Perhaps if and when reform is accomplished in the state of Michigan part of those reforms will address criminal culpability on the part of social workers who neglect to take action to protect a child being abused in a placement.

I am not sure how much longer I will keep this blog open. I will keep it on the Internet so people can always read Ricky’s story here. Within the next few days I will be writing a closure piece of sorts.

I there is anyone reading this blog who would like their comments included in the closure piece please email me using the contact form at the top of the blog.

View the video of the sentencing here.