Yesterday I was hearing some buzz that the Vantrease family was proudly proclaiming that their felon, Austin Vantrease (of Newark, Delaware) paid a minuscule amount toward the criminal restitution ordered by the Court that convicted him. The total amount (before interest) is over $100,000. Anyhow, it was enough for me to check into and let you know either way.
So, be it heard far-and-wide, that $42.35 in indeed paid to offset the $100,000-plus. This, seemingly, is a great source of pride to the Vantrease contingent. Don’t believe me? Just take a look at the sister’s Twitter account. I’d be so ashamed to say this! Wouldn’t most people?
The process works something like this: Austin Vantrease — currently incarcerated in the Huttonsville Correctional Center — somehow sends money to the Monongalia (West Virginia) Court. In turn, the Court documents this in a ledger account and releases a check to us. This process, apparently, is not a swift one.
I wonder if it will come in 84 of those 50-cent penny rolls?
To me, this feels like a firm slap in the face. Why, after three years and eight months, did Vantrease make this token gesture… right before his parole hearing? Hey, I’ll cut him (and his family) a break here and not point out why this seems so wrong to me. I’ll save that for the Parole Board on Monday.
Just for kicks, I thought I’d have a little fun with what some of his supporters believe is remarkable criminal accountability. Some basic math calculates that at the current rate of repayment ($42.35 every three years, or $14.12/year), Vantrease should be able to wrap this up in roughly 7,000 years. What a day that will be in the year 9,013! Remarkable, indeed!
The photo that ran in today’s article.
This “good deed” should fit in nicely with what I am calling the Vantrease Propaganda Blitzkrieg as of late. Gale Vantrease, mother, has taken to the media to “tell their side of the story”. Seriously, this is fine by me since it keeps Ryan relevant and gets that iconic mug shot out more-and-more. The latest is an article in the Dominion Post. I was called to take part in the article but chose to remain silent (at least for now). I’ll have plenty to say later but, for now, I’ll just enjoy their drawing attention and giving me a breather.
Now the Vantrease sister is saying the article “prints the first true depiction of our feelings as a family”. Wrong. It merely prints Mama Vantrease’s statements… in other words, more of the same sad propaganda. Blitzkrieg! Those poor bastards don’t even understand just how poorly this reflects on them. Or their violent son.
They’re actually excited about his mug shot plastered all over the front page.
They’re excited how they portray my son, THE VICTIM, as the cause. She actually points to some words in a deposition. Who’s deposition? Could it be Jonathan May’s, Tyler Johnson’s, or even Austin Vantrease’s?
Please, take the time to read it. Yes, let them hang their hats on “the truth” (which I call “libel”) and spread their propaganda. I urge them to keep going with it. By all means, carry on!
Blitzkrieg!
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Andrea, You are correct that people will often tarnish the 1st impression with self inflicted wounds. It is so important to focus on the consistant follow-through for the entire process. Rapport building does not end after the first 2 seconds. It continues through the goodbye handshake and follow-up interactions. Cheers, Mike
he will find out the prices, so it is a maybe.I hope the dance goes well for you and your new friends in the festival. I hope we can call eachother more ofton, I really wasnt expecting it when you called me last week but all the samee it was amazing chating with u.Hope u have a great christmas, Iv just been planning my christmas list. Hopefully im getting a new camera and some horse riding boots and a Harry Hall hat, I cant wait!Hope u are having a graet time away, we are missing u lots.Lots of love Isla.xx
If no scheduling order has been agreed to how can Attorney Apuzzo be in Compliance with Rule 16 B?(b) Scheduling.(1) Scheduling Order. Except in categories of actions exempted by local rule, the district judge — or a magistrate judge when authorized by local rule — must issue a scheduling order: (2) Time to Issue. The judge must issue the scheduling order as soon as practicable, but in any event within the earlier of 120 days after any defendant has been served with the complaint or 90 days after any defendant has appeared.
A bit suserirpd it seems to simple and yet useful.
Your a douche it makes me happy to know that your not.
Uhh…is this English?
It’s Monday afternoon and I just checked in on FB, parole has been denied! Safe journey home, Ken, & Kari. Hope the petition had some impact on their decision.
WOOHOOO! So awesome!!!!!!!!! Safe travels home.
Whatever happens, Team Diviney will always stand up for your family!!!
It’s Monday morning, my thoughts and prayers are going out to Ken & Kari. Be strong, be safe and know that we are all thinking about you today.
Amen Gloria, praying for the Diviney’s this morning.
Debbie, we have all the facts we need. Austin and Jon attacked Ryan. They left the area without giving a crap about whether Ryan lived or died. Ryan almost died that night, and many times after that dreadful night. Austin and Jon were arrested for attacking Ryan. Neither of them have done much to make amends for what they did.
Whatever other “facts” you feel are missing don’t add or detract much to the ugly reality.
He was in jail and then he went to prison. There is a difference! You people are just plain stupid on the facts. Mr. Divinny gives HIS ACCOUNT, not the factual account!!!
Debbie, Thanks for clearing that up. Not ever having a family member kick another human being in the head before I wasn’t sure what happened. Now I know, they will go to jail, then they will go to prison. Thanks for the info, I will pass that on at the next family reunion. Like they said in Forest Gump, ” Stupid is as Stupid Does”.
Debbie … Just wondering … Since you are a Vantrease family friend … Exactly what does Austin think his punishment should be ? Has he ever written a heartfelt letter to the family ? He has plenty of time alone with only his thoughts . How does Austin and family look at Ryans photos/videos – and have the nerve to ask for anything less than what a jury decided ? I pray that parole is denied … Still keeping Ryan relevant in Alabama
You know what Debbie, I would expect nothing less of Ken Diviney to give HIS ACCOUNT especially since Ryan’s Rally is the web page & blog with the facts and his expressed opinion as he understands it…Rightfully so plus he doesn’t hesitate to put that out there. As well, we are entitled to determine what we believe to be the truth. If you don’t like it, DON’T READ THE BLOG! What I find intriguing is that I can read Andy V’s blog & see all sorts of EGREGIOUS loopholes. Ken, has no problem with disclosure and backing up what he says. Anyone can split hairs about definitions but the bottom line is that the verdict and sentencing was determined through a LEGAL PROCESS. Question what you will but it’s pretty much spitting into the wind. What I find trite is old Makie Brown referring to WV Prisons, You People This, WV Good Old Boy network & state. You People That. Sorry, Ryan couldn’t help that he was getting his education and was attacked in the state of Almost Heaven West Virginia…The funny thing is that the multitude of supporters of The Diviney’s aren’t even from West Virginia…beautiful and fine state that it is! What I’m certain of is that Ken could provide exact information on that. He’s that keen on accuracy and details.
Mak, how do you not understand that despite Austin’s current confinement, he still has the ability to work with family, friends, organizations and his community to raise awareness about Ryan’s injuries (traumatic brain injury and coma, to be precise), and implement fundraising activities.
We’ll definitely keep harping about this matter, because I’m sure the VanTreases in their drive to do the right thing could come up with ways to help Austin fulfill his obligation for court ordered restitution. However, they’ve chosen to do absolutely, positively nothing. That’s about as uncompassionate and hard hearted as it gets.
It really doesn’t matter if the VanTreases feel libeled, denigrated and harassed. Has it occurred to you, or them, that they could have pursued a vastly different road to travel, rather than choosing to deflect blame for what their son did? Their behavior with regard to helping Ryan has been disingenuous at best. Contrary to how the Vantreases may feel, it is Ryan whom the court has recognized as being the victim. The catastrophic injuries caused by Austin and Jon make them the responsible parties for Ryan’s coma. They alone did this, no one else.
So you were wondering if the Divineys received a couple million? Who knows, but I think you’re smart enough to recognize that the long terms costs of providing daily medical for Ryan runs far beyond a couple million.
But do you really think this case is about money, anyway? $100,000 is truly paltry when you look at the definition of “restitution:”
res·ti·tu·tion
n.
1. The act of restoring to the rightful owner something that has been taken away, lost, or surrendered. See Synonyms at reparation.
2. The act of making good or compensating for loss, damage, or injury; indemnification.
3. A return to or restoration of a previous state or position.
There really isn’t enough money to fix what Austin and Jon did to Ryan. It’s about finding some measure of justice for a young man whose life was irreparably damaged because of two young men who did worse than make a poor choice — they destroyed another person’s life. They should both be doing everything in their power to make every day a better day for Ryan and his family. Instead, the VanTrease family is spending their time, energy and money on figuring out how to cast their son in a better light so that his punishment can be minimized.
Fact; Austin sat in a WV jail cell for 2 Years because WV Prisons are rediculously overcrowded (surprise surprise). How do you NOT understand that people don’t make money in jail??? Austin has been in Huttonsville for one year now, trying to get a job from the very beginning, which is very hard to come by because everyone wants something to do, or some money to get extra food. Austin finally got a job in the laundry room a few months ago, making next to nothing…. All of it going to his restitution at the County Clerk Office. If you keep harping about how little he has paid toward restitution, GET USED TO IT IF HE STAYS IN PRISON! You people don’t understand the way your Dept of Corrections System works in WV!! Meanwhile Jon May who has been out of jail for 2 years and has paid $50. Why doesn’t that rustle your tail feathers? The restitution is Austin’s responsibility and he is determined to pay it. And its not his parents responsibility… (God knows if i had been harassed, threatened, subjected to libel, slander and denigration all these years, called every disgusting name in the book by strangers, i would not feel compelled to support that hatred.) The money would all happen much faster if Austin had a real job…. So campaigning to keep him in prison hurts Ryan! I guess Jon May has no intention of paying any of his $75,000. Austin does. And by the way, don’t the Divineys have a couple million $$ from the boys they already sued and settled with?? Isn’t that interesting that Austin, the only one that didn’t go to WVU, didn’t get that kind of “deal.” Oh yeah, that nice “good ol’ boy” network & state. Got it.
Mr. Brown, While you are signaling Austin Vantrease out as being the ‘only one who….”. Isn’t he the only one who kicked Ryan in the head twice?
Also he sat in jail because he committed a felony crime and was convicted by a jury, he is not not there because the prisons are over crowded. Stop making excuses for him, thats why he did what he did, people made excuses for his bad behavior for years and now he has run into a circumstance his parents can not get him out of.
Anna, apparently you did not read carefully & you are obviously unaware that there is a difference between a JAIL & a PRISON. JAIL is supposed to be for temporary holding. PRISON is where someone convicted of a felony & other serious crimes go to serve their time. Also, NO ONE is making excuses for him! He did what he did. He played ONE part in the entire situation. I love how you & others have put all the blame on Austin. You’re asking me if he is the only one who kicked Ryan? Have all of you people forgot the blow to Ryan’s head from the concrete on the street?! The pavement in which Ryan’s head made contact with from Mr. May’s hit??? And where is he rght now? And how much restitution has he paid?? Oh yeah… $10 more than Austin who is making pennies in prison! Yet Mr. May has the ability to make MUCH more since he is free. And let me also address the fact that he has only contributed that amount because he JUST got the job in the laundry room. Again, it takes a long time & also a show of good behavior, among other things, to get those prison jobs. Before you post anything that other people will read, I suggest you do your research. I’m done talking to you peiple. I’m disgusted that this country’s citizens has decided to change the rules and has also decided not to use the thousands upon thousands of resources that we have available to us to do proper research before we crucify ONE individual when he is not the only one to blame. May God help your judgmental souls since your judgments are based on half of the truth. Sad.
Austin is locked up for kicking Ryan in the head, who the hell cares where he is, just so he is locked away from any other victims. You should be embarrased that you are quibling about whether he is in prison or in jail. If I had a son and he kicked someone in the head I would be horrified, not argueing whether he is in prison or jail. Sadly, you miss the big picture here.
Anna- can you read ? the difference between jail and prison is the job you can have.
why are you attempting to deflect the point?!
Mak, you pose the question, “And by the way, don’t the Divineys have a couple million $$ from the boys they already sued and settled with?”
The answer is no, we did not.
Ken … BAM! You know the truth!
Ken, I know you wanted as many signatures as possible on the online petition about (no) parole for AV, and you may have been bewildered when otherwise strong supporters, like me, didn’t sign it. This letter, which I faxed to the parole board, explains a bit of my reasoning. Sending psychic love and support to you, Sue, Ryan, and Kari.
Dear Parole Board:
As a member of the Morgantown community, where Austin Vantrease viciously assaulted Ryan Diviney in November 2009, I respectfully request that you deny parole to Mr. Vantrease at his next parole hearing.
Although I cannot speak for everyone in Morgantown, I do know that the overwhelming feeling here is that the 3 years Mr. Vantrease has served are not enough. Many of us follow this case carefully, and we are not convinced that Mr. Vantrease is truly remorseful or understands the magnitude of his crime. Judging from remarks his family has made, and remarks and efforts he has not made, it seems to us that he sees himself, and his family and friends see him, as a scapegoat and what he did as an accident. This is appalling.
You may be aware that the Diviney family has started an online petition asking that Mr. Vantrease serve his entire 10 year sentence. More than 150,000 people have signed it. Please know that there are many, many more people who have not signed it, but think Mr. Vantrease should not be released this year. I am one of those people. My religion compels me to believe that true penitence and rehabilitation are possible. But I have seen neither from Mr. Vantrease this year. I am open to possible parole in the future. But it would be wrong this year.
This year, I believe that Mr. Vantrease is not ready for parole and would pose an unacceptable risk to society if released. Please deny him parole to hold him accountable for his actions, to further justice, and to send the message to others that the behavior he exhibited that terrible night is not tolerated in Morgantown or West Virginia.
Sincerely,
Very well said Renie, I faxed my letter in addition to sending the hard copy last week to the parole board. I am praying they again deny the parole this year. Three years is a far cry from the ten possible years that Austin should serve for this vicious crime. I am hoping that Ken hears the same loud “thump” he heard last year as the board throws down the stack of letters on the table against the parole of Austin Vantrease. Praying for a denial of release, for consequences of ones brutal actions.
It does give the appearance that by not paying the restitution, the message is “we are not responsible and therefore we are not going to pay it.” Or, “heck with you, you are not getting anything from us!”
Whatever the reason, it is unacceptable.
Ryan needs their help, and they are not giving it to him — in spite of the fact that Austin and Jon committed the violence that caused Ryan’s coma.
Very sad.
Has there been any communication from Jon May or his family? Any restitution under way from them? Just curious —
He paid $50 about 6 months ago.
Mr. May must be very proud of himself.
I just asked my husband (he was a Loudoun Cty Sheriff) because I wasn’t sure but can’t their wages be garnished like in a child support case? He said that Ryan’s family/attorney would have to go to court and get the injunction from the judge to garnish wages. Common sense tells me if they aren’t paying then the law should just automatically take that money but apparently that isn’t how it works.
Praying for nerves to be settled, safe travels and perfectly spoken words from Ken to keep his son’s attacker in prison.
Answer is easy — the VanTrease family are all about themselves. They have had numerous opportunities throughout the years to take positive action to help Ryan and his family.
Never once has anyone seen them do so.
The only thing they wanted to know was the names of the donors to RyansRally.org.
The only thing they give a damn about is getting their son out of his prison sentence for the crime he committed.
Their behavior is callous, crass and cold hearted.
————————————————————————————-
Ryan, Kari, Ken and Sue, Team Diviney will always stand up for you — while there will never be any real “justice” for Ryan, he will always have an abundance of people who love, care and support him. It is a privilege to know such a remarkable family, and I pray for your peace and happiness. We love you Divineys.
The thing that jumped out at me as I read the article is that Gale says that Austin is truly sorry, then goes on to deflect responsibility and blame through the rest of her statements. She clearly doesn’t get it. Sad part for them is that I know Ken & Sue well enough from my college days to know that if they sincerely apologized and then set a concrete action plan to help Ryan and delivered on it as promised, Ken & Sue would forgive them. They will never forget it, but Ken & Sue are forgiving, caring people.
It just makes me wonder why it’s so hard for people to admit that sometimes they are wrong, refuse to truly and sincerely apologize (sans all excuses), and then do everything possible to prove that they are contrite.
John, I wondered if that was the case about Ken and Sue. My cousin was killed in a car accident by another cousin. He was high on pot and alcohol and was thrown from the car, walked away. My cousin and her boyfriend were both killed. My aunt forgave him for taking her daughter even though he should not have been high on drugs. He never forgave himself and has done anything he can to destroy himself but she has tried to help him over the years.
I think one of the other things that disgusted me was the mother saying this was temporary for AVT. It’s so sad that taking someone’s life like this is only a temporary setback for AVT and his family. He will be able to go on and have children, a job, family vacations, buy houses, see friends, enjoy football games but Ryan will not because for him it is not temporary.
Really disappointed in this newspaper,” The Dominion Post.” Very surprised at the subpar journalism. Is this low level of journalistic integrity typical for this paper? How can the reporter allow an article containing so many obvious mistruths to be published? Did it past muster with the editor too? Freedom of speech is one thing, but agreeing to participate in a deliberate campaign of spreading false information is very concerning. Ken, I hope you run it past your lawyers.
My opinion is he should go to Jail for a long long time. For the way he ruined ryans life why should he get out to enjoy his. Sad to say but Makes me so mad that it seems like if something happens in morgantown you can get away with most of it. And for austins family to think he is so innocent come on maybe they should have to look at what ryan and his family has went through. Ryans family has my support 120%
I’ve looked at the various links that YOU have provided to their Facebook page, web site & the article…I’m stumped as to why THEY haven’t likewise…Humm??…Austin’s Father Bob’s court apology is a pseudo valiant effort but doesn’t impress me unless it was unprovoked & in writing mailed straight to Ashburn. What does his statement have to do with the price of tea in China?? Plus, he has a son that can speak for himself & Ryan can’t…Which brings me to Austin’s Nonapology…”I want everyone to know how sorry I am”….Everyone could be Anyone & certainly isn’t SOMEONE specifically Ryan (whom he can’t converse with)…And lastly, saying that he hopes God gives Ryan’s Family & Friends strength to make it through “this trying time”…THIS??…How about THAT trying time…THIS and Next Month, Next Year and the Year after…Puullleeassse…He should have added, “Because The Devil Made Me Do It”.
I’m not a Hater….I’m just a Non Believer…Spin doctoring. He was convicted. PERIOD. Their web site is double talk. Saying “Hate Campaign” aka Truth Campaign to us & “The opportunity to bring two families together toward a common goal” blah de blah…is a contradiction.
Wonder why the mom keeps talking ?? She sounds like a complete idiot ! You would think their lawyer would advise them to shut up … Or at least “pretend” to actually care what happened to Ryan … And they also need to take down those pics of Austin with that sh&t eating grin on his face … He looks more natural in his prison threads … 42 dollars … My 12 year old has more money than that …. Loser …
Warning – total rant.
Have any of you checked out the web site (http://chooseprogress.net/) that the sister has set up? So ridiculous. They have a petition going to get Austin out of jail. Woohoo – they have over 500 signatures. Good luck – that boy (note, not a man) needs to stay in jail.
Austin’s “sincere apology” from 2010 (https://twitter.com/AndrayaDuval/status/356888520922632192/photo/1) – I don’t believe it for a second. He’s trying to appeal to the judge. He would be stupid not to say it.
He might make more money out of jail but who the heck would hire him? Roughneck with bad decision making skills when under pressure? No thanks. I wouldn’t hire him to take out my garbage.
Also – so love how on the accountability page that the scrolling images of the court apology goes by so quick that you don’t have time to read it. Dumb.
Go Carla! This incident could have been avoided by simple decision making and was NO accident. It was purposeful and malicious.
God speed to you Ken for Monday’s hearing!! We are all praying for you and your family!!!
Ken and all don’t link to their pages it builds their rank in search engines. Or Ken add a nofollow to all outbound links. Safe travels.
Carla, I think that is extremely well said. I recently graduated from college as I am sure many of the readers have or if nothing else you can recall those party scenes. You can surely remember grabbing a late night snack, all of this is innocent and timely for a college kid. Never during those parties or after did myself or any of my friends (males included) get into a fight that ended up with a male unconscious on the ground. I would only hope that wasn’t a common scene in your college town- how could anyone feel safe if it was? Guys may have gotten into fights when they were drunk and maybe even when they were sober, but still they know when to stop. It is called critical-thinking skills and self control. Do you have those? Fast forward from college and into the now…I am a teacher. I think it is important to teach those skills. You can see here where they could have been of huge assistance to Austin. Sure, he may not have meant to do it, I totally get that, we all make mistakes. I think what the point is, is that this was a HUGE “mistake”/”tragedy” that has left one person in a vegetative state. That “mistake” then needs to receive their punishment and pay restitution.
Now, I will never claim to be a math star, but we can use a calculator or do some simple addition….If he had made the wise choice of getting a job and putting it towards his debt of $100,000 when he got there, over three years he could have paid off $1440.00 of his debt. But, maybe it is difficult to get a job in prison so to allow for the benefit of the doubt, he was able to get a job a year ago at his last parole, then he would have contributed $480.00. That looks like a stark difference from how much he has actually paid. It looks like at $40.00 a month he has given a little over one months pay to the Diviney’s. Does that fair to anyone? Afterall, the Vantrease family just wants “fairness.” I personally don’t think this whole situation is fair, it is deeply saddening.
By the way, I am just an innocent bystander, I have no relation to any family or individual, I simply feel Ryan’s story is compelling and unfair.
Indeed. The timing of Austin’s $40 payment seems as though he decided to do it last minute hoping to show the parole board his “progress.” I also have to wonder how much money Austin had saved prior to his attack on Ryan, and
how much money has been given to him by relatives as birthday and Christmas gifts throughout the past 3 1/2 years.
Would it also have been possible
for Austin’s parents to have contributed towards making the court ordered restitution?
Still would like to know why the VanTrease’s lawyer felt the need to ask to be given a list of those who have contributed to Ryan’s care?
Critical thinking and self control about when to stop a fight? That does not even make sense. Lets be serious every human makes mistakes. John 8:7. This story in the bible draws a lot of parallels. The adulterous women was going to be stoned by an angry mob. The religious people were attempting to trap Jesus between his message of mercy and forgiveness and the roman law requiring death for those who committ adultery. He escaped this trap by simply responding let those without sin cast the first stone. Slowy one by one the mob dropped their stones and walked away. The irony is it takes two to commit adultery, as does it a physical altercation, and the male was no where to be found when it was time for a good old fashioned stoning. They both had culpability In the adultery but only the women was to be stoned by the mob. This blog has got an awfully big mob ready to cast stones, when they, this person in particular above me admit they have at a point in there life surround themselves with those who engage in physical altercations. What happened to Ryan is tragic. Pending a miracle his future has been taken by this incident. Vantrease was wrong. No one can deny
That. What bothers me is how people are so quick to stone a person on the Internet they have never met. Self proclaiming religious people on this blog included. I have Facebook friends who share these blogs ken writes but I know they drink and drive, a choice just as dangerous as getting in a fight but share stories declaring Vantrase a monster. The drunk drivers sign the petition to keep Vantrease in jail. Hypocritical? Think twice about the choices you’ve made in your life before you cast your stones. Just because your poor choices did not end as bad as they could have does not make them any less wrong. I pray for Ryan’s recovery daily and for mercy, peace, grace, and forgiveness for all involved.
“Critical thinking and self control about when to stop a fight? That does not even make sense.” Well actually yes it does — to anyone who was raised to use words instead of their fists and feet to beat the hell out of someone. That’s why there are laws on the books to punish people who cannot control their violent tendencies and ensure public safety.
You speak of culpability, but let me clarify with you that there is a tremendous difference between having an argument with someone versus savagely attacking them. Further, the fact that both VanTrease and May ran away and hid behind a dumpster while Ryan was unconscious on the ground adds another level of deviance to their behavior. Then they allegedly bragged about their depraved behavior.
“What happened to Ryan is tragic.” What happened to Ryan goes way beyond tragic, Charles. It is disgusting, horrible, sickening and repugnant. It is unacceptable in civilized society.
“Just because your poor choices did not end as bad as they could have does not make them any less wrong.” Maybe, or maybe not, but your effort to compare a crime that actually occurred with something else lacks relevance. Surely you can make the distinction between deliberate, ruthless violence and other types of “poor choices.” Austin very nearly killed Ryan.
What I find a bit discomfiting is how you choose to cast aspersions at your facebook friends about the choices they make and then call them hypocritical. If you’re going to use religion as a means to justify your argument on behalf of Austin, perhaps you should not be casting the first stone.
Are You Kidding / Alec / Whoever,
I realize that while in jail, the pay is not great, and the limitation is probably so that others can have an opportunity to have a job/make some money too. Depending on when Austin got the job, $40 a month should be $1440 if he started when he began serving his sentence. It just kind of looks like he either just got the job or just started contributing. So, without clarification, it is hard to say. It would have been nice to see his family organize a fundraiser or something to show good will. Can you see why this is so hard for the Divineys? Do you even know the astronomical costs associated with Ryan’s care? Insurance doesn’t begin to SCRATCH the surface, and a lot of his care isn’t covered. It’s frightening and scary. And expensive! I can’t speak for the Divineys but knowing the good people that they are, I’m sure if good will were to have been shown from the get-go, by ALL parties involved, including the families of the attackers, perhaps there might’ve been some room for healing. To date though, outside of family, a few neighbors/friends, most of the people who have offered to help the Divineys are complete strangers. And the ones who are rallying for AVT’s release keep saying this was an accident.
This whole thing is such a horrific tragedy. It is NOT an accident. Do I think that AVT and JM tried to kill Ryan? No. I’m sure they didn’t mean to. But…… as my father always says, you have to mean NOT to. AVT’s and JM’s actions caused permanent damage/injury/financial burden not only to Ryan, but to the Diviney family! Please please please try to understand that.
What is preventing Austin from delivering his message he so badly wants to deliver to teens etc from prison?? Or does he and his family feel it would better be delivered from the next family vacation spot?
40 is 40.00, at least it is something. What is preventing the Vantease family/friends/supporters from contributing to Ryan’s expenses? Oh…right vacations are expensive.
Praying that the parole board will see thru all the lies, and keep Vantrease where he belongs.
The first thing I thought was he is attempting to make restitution and the parole board should take this into consideration toward Austins release. Then I laughed. I hope his family does not think that this gesture qualifies for anything but ‘ stupid of the year award”. My prayers for the upcoming hearing. Austin get comfortable in prison.
Alec!!! You little trickster you. And to think I almost took you seriously. You are just another Troublemaker coming here to bother the Divineys? Scat, go away!!!
Dear “Are You Kidding,”
We happen to believe that truth is always better than lies, and that the needs of the victims, in this case Ryan Diviney and his family take precedence over the perpetrator who committed this violent crime.
So, no, we’re not kidding -not at all.
The quotes and general behavior of the Vantrease family is the ONLY thing that is shameful here.
Are you kidding me?! What would you all like Austin to do? Kill himself in jail? would that be accepting full responsibility? Would you like him to go to the judge and beg for the judge to give him 25 years? Please. The sentence is 2-10 years. Meaning that he is able to get out anytime after 2 years. Its a legal process, let it play out. You guys are absolutely ridiculous. It was a horrible tragedy, but the trash talk is a joke and its childish and immature. Austin can make $40/month in jail. You want more money from him? He can get out, find a job, and start paying his restitution. Thats how he’ll get money over to the Diviney’s. You guys are talking in double negatives. You want him to stay in jail, but you also want more money from him……? This gossip is such horseshit. This is a horrible tragedy and you are all using this website to gossip and trash talk others. Shameful.
For everyone’s clarification, “Are You Kidding?!” is actually “Alec” from previous comments.
Alec, Are you kidding me….Austin just now starts to pay restitution, just now gets a job? What the hell has he been doing for the last years in jail. According to his sister he has been sitting around “reflecting”. If he had shown some remorse, got himself a job when he first got there, or maybe even after the last parole hearing when they asked him why he was not working. No he waits until just before the upcoming hearing.
Alec (aka Are you Kidding?) You are emotionally draining and bring way too much drama to this already tragic story. I don’t know why you spend so much time on this website if you find it so disturbing. Your presence is certainly not going to change what people think about the convicted felon. Go away, preferably somewhere far away.
Honestly, I’m concerned that the Dominion Post allowed so many factually incorrect statements to be printed. I know they asked you for your input, Ken, but that does not absolve them from fact checking. I think I need to call their editor.
Right behind you, Paula. Very factually incorrect. A trumped up article if i ever saw one. Those of us who have been following Ryan know this article to be just trash talk.
That has typically been what I have read in the Dominion Post for years, like over 25 years. I think they are a Morgantown paper but you have to remember it isn’t DC nor New York. It is a small town regardless of what it may appear to be. The University has made this explosion happen to this small agri-cultured town and they were writing the story based on what the mother said.
What I have learned from my last few year’s experience is GARBAGE IN, GARBAGE OUT. Remember that. That sister is a piece of work. 500 have signed the document to get him released, I have not looked at the number for Ryan in a few weeks but it was over 150,000 last time I saw it.
What actually pissed me off in the article, well one of the things, is that it said Ryan is cared for mostly by his family. I haven’t read anything that has said Ken allows anyone else to care for Ryan. I have offered only because I know how some of the equipment works and I don’t have considerable funds to contribute on a monthly/weekly/daily basis but I understand Ken, he has to protect his son from illnesses, germs, and possible harm. The very first thing that was put in my head is “he is either in the bed or in the chair, no where else.” And under my watch my father in law was never anywhere else.
Sending prayers to Ken, Ryan and the entire family for a swift answer of NO on Monday.
That article made me nauseous. Stone cold sober or even drunk, who kicks someone when they are already down…and outnumbered….but even worse, who kicks someone in the head and face when they are already down. There was intent. They acted like punks. They are only sorry for the consequences. I think the letter is trite. Very sad for your family and mostly Ryan. I wish you strength. I will keep Ryan and your entire family in my prayers.
Hi Ken,
This is exactly why Austin should not be releases from prison. Not only is Austin unwilling to accept full responsibility for the horrendous injuries he did to Ryan, his family is also unwilling to acknowledge’s that it was Austin’s violence that almost snuffed out Ryan’s life.
And you know, there really is no good, acceptable reason for what Austin did. Any sane, civilized human being understands this. To make excuses for the perpetrator’s criminal actions while deflecting blame upon the victim is just cruel. All the soothsaying about kids drinking and this kind of thing can happen – I find that ignorant, insulting and just plain wrong.
No. This kind of animalistic violence is wrought by people who are bullies and have never been held accountable for being a bully. I Imagine Austin has always been able to get away with a lot he should not have – and then be coddled and reassured that he’s the man.
The kind of savage attack perpetuated by Austin VanTrease and Jon May upon Ryan is shocking and terrifying. And because of the Van Trease’s continued efforts to frame Ryan as being the cause of Austins’s near murderous actions, I am trusting the judge will take their attitude and behavior, along with Austin’s paltry last ditch effort to show “progress” for what it is – deceitful and offensive.
My biggest sorrow is that you and your family are being re-victimized by the VanTrease family. It sickens me what they are doing to you. All their false words, distortion of the facts, twisting of the truth is nauseating.
Any truly remorseful family would never have verbally assaulted your family after the jury rendered its verdict of guilty for the heinous crime committed upon Ryan and your family.
Most parents would have been ashamed and mortified if their son acted so abominably. They would have taken concrete steps to express their regret and sorrow for their son stomping Ryan’s head and destroying his life. They would have worked to help you get through all the scary, painful, sad days. They would have sought help and support for you in whatever ways they could.
Instead, the VanTreases chose to respond to Austin’s violence by rationalizing and justifying it.
They continue, after three years and eight months,to deny their sons’s culpability.
It is chilling behavior and should send a message to the public about exactly who they are dealing with.
I pray for justice, though I know whatever is meted out to Austin will never restore the full measure of what was so malevolently stolen from Ryan and your family.
The only thing worse than witnessing the immense suffering of your family is seeing the depravity of the VanTrease family as they willfully continue to add to your family’s pain. Tis truly a sorrowful, disheartening state of affairs.
That entire family makes me sick!! I pray your family will find peace someday. That boys brutal and violent actions has caused tremendous pain for so many people. It was no accident and he should serve out his full term!
What a joke that family is. Not only have they shown no genuine remorse but the lack of accountability is astonishing. Austin belongs in prison.
So the last “episode” of my explosion of anger over this crappy family made me look for the depositions. I never found anything but I did read about the Willey Street camera and how it caught everything that happened. The weirdness of that is that when my parents were first married they lived over a store on Willey Street, I had remembered Willey Street from when I was a kid, my aunt lived on Lorentz Ave for years.
I just keep thinking about what I say regarding decisions that people make. He made a decision to kick Ryan, then another decision to kick him again and a decision to run. Each second he made decisions. Each second he could have made different decisions that would have turned out different for everyone.
When I read your headline I thought maybe he had paid $1,000 towards it, which would have been an attempt AND might have given him a shot when he goes before the parole board, but $42? Excuse me, $42.35…. That isn’t even the vitamins that Ryan needs or the food he gets for a week. What percentage is that of 1 doctor visit? 1/10th?
I hate that the idiots are giving my hometown such a bad name.
I am sorry that you have to re-live this everyday. Continue to fight for your son and be strong. Anyone with a shred of decency stands behind you and your family! Praying for healing and blessings within your family.
Kicked in “jaw” ,really, and cause that much damage to Ryan’s head ?? (unbelievable)
Paying restitution, $42.35 over 3 years eight months (unbelievable) .Getting out in 3 years for such an horrific act.( totally unbelievable)
How do they really think that amount will help in any way ????? It is embarrassing that they would even mention
‘She said Austin kicked Diviney in the jaw in a “split-second reaction” and never intended for things to turn out the way they did’……..really if you can not control yourself and it only takes a ‘split second’ to go off…. the world is safer with him locked up!!! His mother is trying to twist the truth to make him sound better. She should realize that the truth shines though and even her trying to get people to see it a different way is not possible because truth is truth, no matter how you dress it up.
I just read the article. Austin did not kick Ryan “in the jaw” as Gale stated. Austin kicked Ryan in the head…twice. When will the Vantrease family start telling the truth? No wonder Austin turned out like he did. I wonder when Austin started working in the laundry, he has only paid $42 in restitution.
Also, if Ryan was kicked in the jaw he would have had a broken jaw, he did not, he had a broken skull. Get your facts straight Gale
Anna, actually, it’s even worse than you described. He had BOTH a broken jaw and fractured skull.
That’s right the broken jaw was from Jonathan May and his sucker punch. The fractured skull was from Austin and his “kick that looked like he was punting a football”
A mere token! Wouldn’t pay for fuel for a trip to Hopkins for Ryan’s tests. Not fooled!