Online Editor Faces Charges Over False Social Media Activity Amid Search Efforts
In a case intertwining digital media and criminal investigations, a Show Low online news editor finds herself facing serious legal troubles. Allegations have emerged against Molly Kathryn Ottman, 50, related to misleading social media activities concerning a missing 16-year-old from Joseph City.
The Navajo County Attorney’s Office revealed that Ottman, who operates the Mountain Daily Star, allegedly fabricated posts on Reddit suggesting inappropriate conduct by Jarrett Brooks’ stepfather. The posts were initially perceived as genuine but were later traced back to Ottman as the source. Consequently, a grand jury has indicted her on two felony counts: obstructing a criminal investigation, a Class 5 felony, and engaging in fraudulent schemes, a Class 2 felony.
Jarrett Brooks was only 16 when he disappeared from his Joseph City residence, following a familial dispute. Despite extensive efforts, Brooks remains missing, and he would now be 18 years old. The Navajo County Sheriff’s Office continues to appeal to the public for assistance in locating him.
Ottman’s actions allegedly redirected essential resources from Brooks’ search, drawing criticism from authorities. “A 16-year-old boy was missing and all of law enforcement’s energy and resources should have been able to remain focused strictly on the search for that young man,” stated Navajo County Attorney Brad Carlyon. “Diverting attention, resources and time to fabricated evidence creates unwarranted distractions during time-sensitive investigations.”
Ottman is set to appear in court on June 2 as the legal proceedings unfold. Meanwhile, the search for Jarrett Brooks remains an open and urgent matter.
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