Facebook Aids Utah Criminal in Hotel Standoff

Facebook (News - Alert) has become an inescapable extension of public space, a fact best exemplified by its use by both police and criminal organizations as a source of information and communication. While there have been plenty of stories about law enforcement agencies busting criminals as a result of Facebook boasting, in a recent twist, an armed drug dealer was able to ward off a police raid with a little help from his friends.

Jason Valdez, a Utah resident, was able to stay holed up with a hostage up in a Salt Lake City hotel by using his Facebook page to get information from friends about police locations. He also replied to tips in real-time and posted pictures of himself and his hostage. Police posted response to these status updates as well, trying to talk Valdez down and ensure the hostage escaped unharmed.

The standoff lasted for 16 hours and ended when police stormed the hotel. Though reports indicate that officers did discharge their weapons, Valdez shot himself in the chest during the scuffle and remains in critical condition. No word yet as to how those aiding Valdez during the standoff will be prosecuted.

This is not the first time the popular social media site has been used with criminal intent. Recently the service was used by Malaysian gangsters in recruiting members. Facebook has also increasingly helpful in the apprehension of criminals boasting about their exploits.

These instances have shown that the social media sphere is an increasingly public domain and should warrant discretion from all users. Using it to broadcast criminal success is the Internet equivalent of standing on a soap box in broad daylight and yelling “I’m guilty.” Neither is a particularly good strategy for extending an unlawful career.

Chris DiMarco is a Web Editor for TMCnet. He holds a master's degree in journalism from Quinnipiac University. Prior to joining TMC (News - Alert) Chris worked with e-commerce provider Suresource as a contact center representative and development analyst. To read more of his articles, please visit his columnist page. Follow him on Twitter @cpdimarco.

Edited by Rich Steeves