Phillips Family Disappearances

Background

• Location: Marokopa, Waikato, New Zealand
• Family Members: Tom Phillips and his three young children
• Status: Missing since 9 December 2021
• History:
  • Tom Phillips lived in Ōtorohanga with his children; family farm located in Marokopa
  • Separated from wife Catherine, homeschooling children
  • Experienced hunter and camper

First Disappearance (September 2021)

• Last seen on 11 September 2021 at family farm
• Incident: Toyota Hilux found on Kiritehere beach
  • Keys under driver's mat, vehicle battered by waves
• Search:
  • Extensive search using plane, helicopter, jet ski, and drones
  • Search suspended on 24 September
• Reappearance:
  • On 30 September, Phillips and children returned home
• Legal: Phillips charged with wasting police resources
  • Court date set for 5 November, delayed to 12 January 2022 due to COVID-19

Second Disappearance and Robberies (December 2021 - Present)

• Incident: Disappeared again on 9 December 2021
  • Not in violation of court orders; no initial police search
  • Arrest warrant issued after missing January court date
  • Ute found on Mangatoa Road in late January
• February 2022: Phillips visited home for supplies, stated children were safe
• Allegations:
  • Believed to be receiving assistance to survive
  • Allegedly stole a Toyota Hilux in August 2023
  • Charged with aggravated robbery and unlawful firearm possession in September 2023

Public and Police Actions

• Community Response:
  • Older half-sisters launched a petition for increased efforts
  • Public appeal on Ten 7 Aotearoa
  • Family fundraising for reward
• Police Actions:
  • Disguise theory: Possible name changes and relocation
  • NZ$80,000 reward offered for information in June 2024
  • Legal immunity for those assisting if they come forward

Recent Developments

• Sightings:
  • 3 October 2024: Phillips and children spotted by pig hunters in Marokopa farmland
  • Military helicopter and search without significant findings

Conclusion

• The Phillips family remains missing despite extensive searches and public appeals.
• Ongoing belief that Tom Phillips is maintaining their whereabouts with assistance.

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These notes encompass the timeline of events and actions taken in the Phillips family disappearance case, highlighting the investigations, legal proceedings, and public response.