Introduction to Lt. Dakota Black

Members of the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office describe Lt. Dakota Black as a formidable force. Her expertise lies in tracking down those who are missing, whether they are alive or deceased. She has uncovered them from various places, including under leaves, within trees, and abandoned structures.

Deputy Haven, her therapy dog partner, offers comfort during investigations. This solace proved invaluable during the challenging case involving Makayla Meave.

The Disappearance of Makayla Meave

On September 15, 2023, Makayla Meave checked in as usual with her sister, Andria Meave, in the morning. However, by the next day, her husband, Frank Byers, reported her unexplained absence to Andria and the authorities. Makayla had gone out with a man in a white truck and hadn’t returned.

Living separately due to an impending divorce, she and Frank shared a large property in Macomb, Oklahoma. Initial worry turned to fear as calls went unanswered, and Makayla failed to arrive at a family business commitment.

The Search and Investigation

Deputy Dustin Richardson, called to investigate, discovered the locked residence where Makayla had been living. Despite Frank’s claim of an open marriage, suspicions arose due to his unusual behavior and lack of emotional response.

The case drew local involvement and widespread attention, including search parties and social media posts. Lead detective Lt. Dakota Black joined the investigation.

Community’s Efforts and Frank Byers’ Response

Despite the community’s search efforts, Frank Byers did not participate, raising concerns among Makayla’s family. Lt. Dakota Black, observing him, noted a stark absence of emotion and focused interest on what the investigators knew.

Gathering Evidence

Detectives uncovered Frank’s infidelity. They found bullet casings and suspicious social media behavior, including Frank’s attempts to cover up phone messages. Byers defended himself publicly while detailing her alleged departure.

Both Makayla’s family and the detectives doubted the open marriage claim. Evidence pointed to a fabricated narrative.

Devastating Discovery

Finally, on day five of the search, intuition led a cousin to discover Makayla’s body hidden in a culvert under a road. She was wrapped in carpet. Barbara Harper, following her intuition, had predicted this scenario.

The revelation was crushing for the family and investigators alike.

Building the Case

Lt. Dakota Black focused on tying evidence, including carpets, bullet casings, and phone manipulations, to Frank Byers. She spent long hours assembling details of his complex deceit, revealing his manipulation of Makayla’s phones.

Receipts and surveillance further implicated Frank, including purchases for cleaning supplies that suggested a cover-up.

The Arrest and Legal Proceedings

On October 23, 2023, police arrested Frank Byers based on overwhelming evidence linking him to Makayla’s murder. Despite his protestations of innocence, a plea deal was reached, sparing him the death penalty.

Makayla’s family expressed frustration about the deal and maintained the belief that Frank had assistance.

Legacy and Ongoing Concerns

Barbara Harper established ‘Makayla’s Purple Butterfly’ foundation to combat domestic violence, inspired by Makayla’s nurturing spirit. Despite the resolution of the case, questions remain about the possibility of an accomplice.

Makayla Meave’s impact continues through her family’s efforts to honor her legacy.