Daniella Close
San Diego, CA

To the Editor of the Los Angeles Times
And writers Larry Stammer and Cara DiMassa

I read your article in the La Times on 1/17/2005 in regards to “The Family International.” I was born into and am a former member of The Family. I left in 2001 to pursue a career in the medical field, having spent 21 years in The Family.

I am appalled and disgusted with this article. Suggesting that the murder of Angela Smith was “deserved” and that Mr. Rodriguez is the victim shocks and sickens me. It’s as if you are condoning murder. ANGELA was the victim NOT Mr. Rodriguez. Angela was a wonderful, caring person who devoted her whole life to the Lord and telling others about Him. She was the most selfless person I ever met and I don’t know anyone who knew her personally–as I did–who says otherwise.

I grew up with Daniel Roselle, as both our families lived abroad helping with missionary work and humanitarian aid. We were IN NO WAY EVER ABUSED, to the contrary we were well taken care of and provided for by our parents and other members of The Family. Why he is saying these things is beyond me and is probably to draw attention to himself. I ask you to stop for moment and consider your sources. I have been both in The Family and am now no longer a part of the group. I KNOW FOR A FACT that these accusations and insinuations are wrong and ask you to please print the other side of the story, MINE!

Daniella Close is a second generation former member of The Family International.