The Arrest of Heather Mack: A Turning Point
In 2014, Heather Mack and her boyfriend, Tommy Schaefer, faced arrest in Bali after the body of Mack’s mother, Sheila von Wiese-Mack, was discovered in a suitcase. Currently, Mack serves a 26-year federal prison term for pleading guilty to conspiring to murder her mother. Long before this tragic event, Sgt. Rasul T. Freelain encountered Mack. It began when her mother visited an Illinois police station to report abuse by her daughter. An excerpt from Freelain’s upcoming book describes the crucial moment when Wiese-Mack agreed to cooperate in her daughter’s arrest, marking a significant chapter in the family’s story.
The winter sun faded as Freelain drove toward Sheila von Wiese-Mack’s home near Chicago. Despite a recent blizzard and freezing temperatures, the weather warmed—much like Sheila’s change of heart. It took a broken arm for Sheila to confront her abusive 15-year-old daughter, Heather. Heather’s escalating violence had become undeniable.
Freelain rolled down the windows of his unmarked car, savoring the fresh evening air. He stopped in front of a grand mansion with mustard-colored bricks and a green clay tile roof. As they entered, chaos greeted them. A dining room was littered with overturned chairs, broken dishes, and crumpled papers. His instincts led him to the next room, revealing more destruction.
The living room was a mess. A large shelf lay on the floor, books and decor scattered. Splinters and broken glass glinted on the carpet. Picture frames lay in a disarray, as if a storm had ripped through. Amidst the disorder stood Heather in a red sweater, her hair in a ponytail, distracted by a cell phone.
“Police,” Freelain announced. Heather startled, twisting to face him with wide eyes. “It’s Detective Freelain,” he began, as Heather interrupted with dramatic protests about his presence. Calmly, he explained that her mother had allowed him entry. Heather scowled at her mother, who remained silent.
Freelain directed Heather to sit, repeating his command when defiance met his eyes. Reluctantly, she complied. His backup officer announced her arrival, ready in case of any escalation. He addressed Heather succinctly. “Your mother reported some severe things, and we have evidence of harm. You’re coming with me to the station. You can share your side of the story there.”
Heather leapt up, screaming at her mother for involving the police. Freelain cut the tirade short. “Stop! That’s enough. You’re under arrest for domestic battery.” He stepped forward, instructing Heather to turn and put her hands behind her back. She froze, denying wrongdoing while admitting to causing the household damage. When ordered again, Heather complied, revealing her slender wrists as Freelain handcuffed her.
Escorting Heather out, she screamed her innocence, a sound echoed by Sheila’s tears. Sheila implored her daughter to stop the lies. Gesturing around the room, Sheila insisted Heather faced reality. Heather lowered her head, tears falling quietly. Freelain led Heather outside, entrusting her to the backup officer for handover and procedures.
Sheila watched them depart, remarking on the surreal situation. Freelain offered comfort, acknowledging her efforts to save her daughter. Sheila nodded, a struggle fought against tears. Freelain coordinated with dispatch for evidence documentation, informing Sheila of his return to the station. He assured her presence before questioning Heather.
Sheila expressed gratitude. Freelain cleared the scene and left, knowing a long night awaited all involved.