Joan Bernal (nee Yarbrough), a beloved mother, sister, daughter, and friend, went missing in December 1988. At the time of this writing, Joan also had 12 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren who never got to experience her love. As high school friends of Joan during our junior and senior years, we are deeply saddened by her disappearance and the lack of progress in her case. We write this petition to seek justice for Joan Bernal and her grieving family.

Joan was a vibrant individual who would never have vanished without leaving a word behind. Her sudden disappearance has left an indelible void in the lives of her three children, two sisters, parents, and countless friends who knew her as an extraordinary woman full of life.

Despite the passage of time since Joan's disappearance over three decades ago, it is disheartening to learn that her case remains unsolved. The Will County Sheriff's Department acknowledges it as an "open" cold case but has not taken any significant action toward resolving it. 

We urge the Will County State's Attorney, James Glasgow to support an active investigation into Joan Bernal's cold case.  Although Mr. Glasgow has an impressive record in fighting domestic violence and most notably has successfully prosecuted Drew Peterson for the murder of his third wife, it was he who sought dismissal after several witnesses stated that they had seen Joan alive. The statements of these witnesses were thought to be unreliable, but the District Attorney's office would not risk an acquittal at that time. In the 30 years that have passed since Joan went missing, murder cases in which a body has not been found have been tried where other evidence in the trial is strong. This can include motive, eyewitness testimony, and/or a history of violence attributed to the accused. 

It is crucial that every possible lead be pursued diligently to uncover the truth about what happened to this loving mother. We believe that justice delayed is justice denied - let us not allow this injustice to persist any longer. We respectfully request that this case be re-opened and let the facts speak for themselves.

This petition aims not only to bring attention back to this tragic case but also seeks accountability from law enforcement agencies responsible for investigating these crimes. We demand transparency throughout this process so that no stone is left unturned in finding answers for Joan's family and friends. 

By signing this petition, we stand together in seeking justice for Joan Bernal and her loved ones. We implore the Will County Sheriff's Department to recommit their efforts to solve this case and bring closure to those who have suffered for far too long.

Let us honor the memory of Joan Bernal by ensuring that her story is not forgotten, and that those responsible for her disappearance are held accountable. Together, we can make a difference in seeking justice for our dear friend, Joan.

#JusticeForJoan #FindTheTruth

[Sources: The Circuit Court of the Twelfth Judicial Circuit, Will County, Illinois]