Vallejo Police Department Faces Backlash on Social Media After Release of Netflix Documentary

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
29/01/2024 19h27

In the wake of the release of a Netflix documentary that delves into a fascinating yet deeply troubling kidnapping case, the Vallejo Police Department has found itself inundated with negative comments and backlash on its social media platforms. The documentary, titled "American Nightmare," premiered on January 17 and focuses on the infamous "Gone Girl" case, which unfolded in Mare Island, Vallejo.

The case revolves around Denise Huskins and Aaron Quinn, a couple who woke up on March 23, 2015, to find themselves blindfolded and drugged by an intruder. While Huskins was abducted and subjected to sexual assaults, Quinn struggled to convince the authorities of the unfolding nightmare. However, the police initially dismissed Quinn's claims, even going so far as to assert that the entire incident was a hoax.

The documentary sheds light on the events surrounding the case, featuring footage obtained from the police and the FBI. Former Detective Mat Mustard, who was subsequently named Officer of the Year by then-Chief Andrew Bidou, plays a prominent role in the documentary. Criticism has been directed toward Mustard for his handling of the investigation, particularly during a conversation with Huskins' mother, Jane Remmele. Remmele alleges that Mustard made a disturbing comment implying that women who have been sexually abused might fabricate such incidents for a thrill.

The release of the documentary has sparked a wave of negative comments on the Vallejo Police Department's social media pages. Concerned individuals from across the country have expressed their opinions, with many expressing anger and frustration towards the department's handling of the case. Commenters have called for Mustard's dismissal, with one online petition garnering over 2,200 signatures at the time of writing.

The backlash does not stop at social media. Yelp has disabled the Vallejo Police Department's page due to an influx of reviews related to the case, in order to ensure that only genuine consumer experiences are reflected. Additionally, a Change.org petition inaccurately referring to Mustard as the head of the department has further fueled the controversy.

While the Vallejo Police Department has remained silent regarding the documentary and its aftermath, the fallout from the case has reopened wounds and raised questions about the department's handling of sensitive investigations. It remains to be seen how the department will address the mounting criticism and restore public trust.

The perpetrator in the case, Matthew Muller, was sentenced to 31 years in prison in 2022 for his role in the abduction and sexual assault of Denise Huskins.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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