Serial Killer Mug Shot Hoax: Viral Scam Falsely Claims Dangerous Abductor On the Loose
A recent viral scam has been spreading false information about a dangerous serial killer on the loose. The hoax involves circulating a mug shot of a man along with claims that he is currently abducting women after hitting their cars with his truck. However, the claim is entirely false, and the mug shot is actually of Jose Gilberto Rodriguez, a man who has been in a detention facility since 2018.
Officials in Harris County, Texas, have confirmed that Rodriguez has been behind bars since his arrest in July 2018. He is accused of killing three people in the Houston area over a four-day period. Rodriguez has been awaiting trial and is scheduled to face trial on January 22, 2024. Therefore, the claims circulating on social media about him being on the loose are completely unfounded.
The false information has spread to various states, including Indiana, Texas, Pennsylvania, and Alabama. Users on social media have been sharing Rodriguez’s mug shot, along with warnings about a serial killer or abductor in their area. Authorities, however, have debunked these claims, stating that there are no active investigations regarding a serial killer in the mentioned areas.
The Amarillo Police Department in Texas has labeled these posts as part of a scam aimed at causing panic and alarm. Law enforcement agencies are urging the public not to fall victim to this misinformation and to refrain from sharing the false claims further.
It is crucial to be cautious when sharing and consuming information on social media. Misinformation can easily spread, creating unnecessary fear and panic within communities. Verifying the accuracy of news before sharing it is vital to avoid falling victim to scams or contributing to the spread of false information.
In conclusion, the viral scam involving a mug shot falsely claiming a dangerous serial killer on the loose is completely untrue. Jose Gilberto Rodriguez, the man in the mug shot, has been in a detention facility since his arrest in 2018. Authorities have confirmed that there are no active investigations regarding a serial killer in various states. It is important to rely on verified sources, exercise caution when sharing information, and avoid contributing to the dissemination of false claims.
