The number of tips generated by the publicity surrounding the case of the missing 12-year-old Gainesville girl has slowed in the past week, but the investigation has not, according to the weekly update from the Hall County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO).
HCSO NEWS RELEASE:
““The sheriff’s office and our law enforcement partners continue to develop more information from social
media, the community as well as all other avenues,” Hall County Sheriff Gerald Couch said. “Our only goal
is to find (Maria Gomez-Perez) and bring her home. If anyone has information about Maria’s disappearance and has not shared it, I would implore them to contact us.”
Personnel with the HCSO Special Investigations Unit (SIU) continue to take tips at (770) 503-3232 or
[email protected].
Meantime, phone search and digital evidence investigative efforts have provided hope for a break in the
case and continue to be the best investigative resource thus far; however, this process is extremely time
and resource consuming. Responses vary due to the volume of data, and many vendors require specific
subpoenas or search warrants for access.
HCSO continues to work with partners such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security
Investigations, the GBI and other agencies. The team is using resources including intelligence,
translators, drones, crime scene investigators and simple determination to find clues. Searches have
been conducted locally and as far away as Alabama, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, South Carolina,
Tennessee and Texas. Video images and other media led to HCSO working closely with jurisdictions in
those states to quickly mobilize and search for Maria. Unfortunately, she remains missing.
“In the sixth week since Maria was last seen, assistance from our community remains helpful in ensuring
this case remains in the spotlight,” Sheriff Couch added. “Whether pledging reward money, organizing
signage or sharing fliers, each one of you is appreciated. It is also important to note that scammers have
tried to take advantage of this incident using social media. Please remember that the sheriff’s office
social media platforms should be your point of reference for legitimate and accurate information on the
case.””