OSBI Makes Arrest In Decade-Old Disappearance Case

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation has made an arrest in the case of a missing McCurtain County woman.

Hope Meek, 25, was reported last seen by her husband, Jerry, in late February 2002.

Jerry Meek told police they were separating and he left $500 for her and then took their three young children camping. He told police it was too cold for camping, so he returned early and found Hope and the money gone, but her pickup truck, keys and cell phone still at the house.

7/11/2006 Related Story: Authorities Still Baffled 4 Years After Valliant Woman's Disappearance

The OSBI was involved early in the case and, after ten years of investigation, said they believe that Hope is dead and that she died February 21, 2002, after she and Jerry had a fight at their home.

OSBI agents arrested Jerry Meek, 39, where he works, at the International Paper Company in Valliant.

He was booked into the McCurtain County Jail on one count of first degree murder. His bond was set at $250,000.

The bureau said the arrest was made possible by a new District Attorney, who was willing to prosecute the case despite the lack of body. They said they believe the passage of time proves Hope is deceased.