Social media sheds light on criminal investigations

Deputies in Cole County are still searching for 29-year-old Jerry Gill who allegedly held an ex-girlfriend captive for two days before shooting her.

After checking Gill’s Facebook page, ABC 17 News learned the 29-year-old from Holt’s Summit posted an image more than two weeks ago featuring himself holding a human-shaped figure and joking about “someone special flat-lining.”

One of Gill’s “friends” on the social media site is Brandon Rapier, a man charged with the stabbing deaths of ex-girlfriend Ciera Kolb and Micah Hall.

Rapier also posted on social media alluding to violent acts before allegedly carrying them out.

Capt. John Hotz with the Missouri State Highway Patrol says checking social media is a routine part of criminal investigations.

“Our digital forensics investigation unit will actually work with Facebook and other social media providers through subpoenas or search warrants,” Hotz said. “That information can provide you with more information about what took place and maybe why it took place.”

Gill is charged with false imprisonment, unlawful use of a weapon and two counts of domestic assault.

Deputies say Gill should be considered armed and dangerous.