Facebook Hinders Murder Investigation

Sonora, CA — The Sonora Police Department has called a rumor on Facebook regarding the Rick Roberts’ homicide investigation; False. 49-year-old Roberts was found shot to death at his auto body business Sunday morning, at 280 Mono Way.

Chief Mark Stinson says several postings on Facebook that Roberts’ car trailer was stolen during his homicide are not true. Instead, Police have confirmed it was loaned to a friend.

“We greatly appreciate all the phone calls that were received, but unfortunately it is distracting from the case because all the calls have to be investigated by detectives,” explains Stinson.

The Chief noted that the friend has been worried for his safety since the postings. “Some of the comments on Facebook were disturbing. One read whoever had the trailer was going to get a beat down because they were responsible for the homicide which is not true at all,” says Chief Stinson.

The SPD is still seeking information regarding who may have been around or at Roberts’ auto shop on Mono Way, between 7:30 and 11:00 am on Sunday, February 16th. Chief Stinson gave this update on the case.

“We are still working on numerous leads. We are receiving a lot of phone calls. The autopsy is going on today. We are hoping that will give us some additional information and leads,” says Chief Stinson.

If you have any other information regarding the murder, call the Sonora Police Department at 532-8141.