As the investigation into the disappearance of 12-year-old Maria Gomez-Perez of
Gainesville enters its third week, the reward for the girl’s safe return is now $50,000. All of
the reward money has been contributed by business and community members who wish to
remain anonymous.
Wednesday, Hall County Sheriff Gerald Couch extended his appreciation for the ongoing community support of law enforcement efforts to bring Maria home.
“As I said last week, someone in the community has that single clue or one piece of
information that could lead to finding Maria. I am hopeful the increased reward will
prompt that person to come forward,” Sheriff Couch said. “Meanwhile, our personnel
remain vigilant in their investigation.”
To date, investigators with the Hall County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), in partnership with
other local, state and federal law enforcement officials, have fielded 142 tips in Maria’s
case. Many of those tips have been vetted with negative results; others remain under
investigation.
HCSO reminds community members who are on the lookout for Maria that the girl’s
general appearance may have changed in the last three weeks and those who are searching on
their own should be very cautious and not conduct their own investigations. Individual searches could be dangerous for citizens and for Maria as well.
Instead, the sheriff’s office urges anyone with information to call (770) 503-3232 or email [email protected]. Individuals with tips may also call 911 or Hall County 911/Central Communications at (770) 536-8812. Those offering tips can remain anonymous.