Robert Hansen wanted Cindy Paulson to disappear. As noted elsewhere, the jailhouse scuttlebutt was that Hansen was leaning on his buddies to give Cindy a one way ticket out of town. As it turned out, Cindy was taking herself out of the picture. It was no coincidence that she disappeared just after being served with a subpoena.
“[Cindy] didn’t quite know what to make of [the subpoena]. It almost seemed like a breach of trust. She had no way of knowing that Flothe was simply trying to cover his ass.”
Excerpt From: Walter Gilmour & Leland E. Hale. “Butcher, Baker.”
Now Flothe had to locate her and he wasn’t sure where to start. If he couldn’t locate her, his entire case against Hansen was in jeopardy. Not only that, but a suddenly free Robert Hansen would kill again. It was just a matter of time.
2/2/84: Interview with JOHN SUMRALL reference hunting with HANSEN. Had him discuss previous areas he hunted with HANSEN. Learned of weapon, Ruger #1, given to him by HANSEN. Run serial number after he leaves. Weapon stolen.
Ruger #1
2/3/84: CINDY PAULSEN moves out from Gentleman’s Retreat doesn’t advise Sergeant FLOTHE.
Cindy Paulson
2/6/84: SUMRALL brings in stolen Ruger #1.
CHERRY JOHNSON calls unable to locate CINDY, told she doesn’t work at Gentleman’s Retreat anymore. CINDY’s whereabouts unknown.
Purchase Butcher, Baker