The Hall County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the disappearance of 12-year-old Maria Gomez-Perez of Gainesville. However, tips in the case are slowing down, the sheriff’s office says in its latest update.
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, but to no avail.
“Our only goal is to find Maria and bring her home. If anyone has information about Maria’s disappearance and has not shared it, I would implore them to contact us,” says Sheriff Gerald Couch.
In a news release issued July 12, the sheriff’s office says phone searches and digital evidence “have provided hope for a break.” Investigators say those methods continue to be the best investigative resources so far, but the process is extremely time-consuming and resource-consuming.
The HCSO Special Investigations Unit is actively investigating the case but acknowledges the time and resource constraints involved. Couch says the Unit is working closely with other local and federal law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security, the GBI, and others.
“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,” says Sheriff Couch.
Maria disappeared from her Westside Drive residence on May 29.
“In the sixth week since Maria was last seen, assistance from our community remains helpful in ensuring this case remains in the spotlight,” Couch added. “Whether pledging reward money, organizing signage or sharing fliers, each one of you is appreciated.”
Couch warns 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.”
Couch encourages anyone with information about the case to contact the Special Investigations Unit at 770-503-3232 or [email protected].
