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The husband of missing Colorado mom Suzanne Morphew has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with her disappearance and presumed death just shy of one year ago.
Barry Morphew was arrested on Wednesday and has been charged with first-degree murder after deliberation, tampering with physical evidence and attempt to influence a public servant, according to authorities.
"Today is not a day for celebration, nor does it mark the end of this investigation," said Chaffee County Sheriff John Spezze during a news conference Wednesday afternoon. "Rather, it's the next step in this very difficult yet very important journey as we seek justice for Suzanne and her family."
Spezze thanked the FBI, Colorado's Bureau of Investigation and the office of 11th Judicial District Attorney Linda Stanley for their roles in breaking the case almost a full year after Morphew's disappearance.
Barry Morphew, the husband of Suzanne Morphew, was taken into custody without incident by Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office deputies at approximately 9:15 a.m., near his home in Poncha Spring on Highway 50. He is being held at the Chaffee County Detention Facility without bond. (Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office)
Stanley said the investigation remained active and that the missing woman's remains have still not been found.
She said her office would be leading the ongoing probe but said it would not be commenting further on the open investigation.
She also said the arrest affidavit, a court document detailing how investigators reached their determination that they could charge Barry Morphew in his wife's disappearance, would remain sealed – leaving many questions about the case unanswered.
Barry Morphew previously said investigators were trying to blame him for the May 10 disappearance of his wife, Suzanne Morphew. (Courtesy of Suzanne Morphew's Family)
"I cannot and will not discuss it," she said. "We cannot talk about open or active investigations, and that is per the rules of professional conduct that we will abide by."
Sheriff Spezze , however, said authorities did not expect to make additional arrests in the case.
Authorities did not announce a cause of death or motive.
Barry Morphew is due back in court Thursday morning.
Suzanne's sister-in-law Jena Moorman declined to speak with Fox News on Wednesday regarding the development, calling it a "private family matter." Meanwhile, Suzanne’s sister Melinda Moorman told FOX 21 that Chaffee County Sheriff John Spezze told her the news on Wednesday morning.
Moorman thanked law enforcement and said she was relieved and "just so grateful."
"Today, justice is beginning for my sister," Moorman told FOX 21. "It’s been a journey that no one ever imagines that they’ll take."
Barry and Suzanne Morphew had two daughters together.
MISSING COLORADO MOM SUZANNE MORPHEW'S FRIENDS AND FAMILY HOLD VIGIL NEARLY YEAR AFTER SHE VANISHED
Suzanne Morphew, 49, was reported missing by a neighbor on Mother’s Day ‒ May 10, 2020. Officials said they were told she left for a bike ride and never returned.
This undated photo shows Barry and Suzanne Morphew. ((KNEWZ))
On May 17, her husband, Barry Morphew, posted a video on Facebook pleading for whoever took Suzanne to bring her back.
"Oh Suzanne, if anyone is out there and can hear this, that has you, please, we’ll do whatever it takes to bring you back. We love you, we miss you, your girls need you," Barry said in the video. "No questions asked, however much they want – I will do whatever it takes to get you back. Honey, I love you, I want you back so bad."
Suzanne Morphew’s brother, Andrew Moorman, previously told Dr. Phil that he suspected her husband might be behind her disappearance.
Moorman told Dr. Phil he thought Morphew was "abducted, and in this case, murdered."
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"I don't think she was taken to a second location, I think it happened at home," he said, adding that "based on the behaviors and things that happened," he thought her husband was behind it. "And I pray it's not."
This is a developing news story. Please check back for updates.
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