In the Hulu docuseries Friends Like These: The Murder of Skylar Neese, viewers are given a chilling look at how the digital lives of teenagers can hold the keys to solving, and perhaps preventing, violent crimes. During a recent interview with Temple of Geek, Dr. Rob Ambrosini, a former FBI Supervisory Special Agent and current Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice, shared his perspective on how social media has fundamentally altered the landscape of modern investigations.
Dr. Rob Ambrosini on The Evolution of Investigative Evidence
With over 24 years of experience in the FBI, including serving as a subject matter expert for the Behavioral Analysis Program and the National Center for Analysis of Violent Crime, Dr. Ambrosini has witnessed the social media landscape evolve from its infancy to its current state.
In the case of Skylar Neese, he noted that social media provided a vital view into what the individuals were thinking at a particular time. This real-time digital record proved essential for investigators trying to piece together the events leading up to Skylar’s disappearance.
The Concept of Leakage
One of the most critical aspects of social media in modern threat assessment is a phenomenon Dr. Ambrosini refers to as leakage. Leakage occurs when an individual with a grievance begins posting information online that suggests they are working their way up the pathway to violence. By actively mining social media, investigators can identify patterns in shootings or other violent incidents before they occur.
Dr. Ambrosini encourages the public and authorities alike to pay close attention to what individuals are disclosing online, as these posts often serve as evidentiary documentation of intent.
While social media is a powerful tool for law enforcement, Dr. Ambrosini issued a stern warning for parents and vulnerable individuals. He highlighted that the digital arena is rife with predatory groups that exploit children for sexually explicit material or encourage self-harm.
“From a parent standpoint, from a safety standpoint, it is a very vulnerable arena for individuals because there’s a lot of groups on there that want to exploit children. And that’s part of that cautionary tale.”
Friends Like These: The Murder of Skylar Neese is produced by Dorothy St. Pictures for Hulu. The series is directed by Clair Titley (The Contestant), marking her second collaboration with the streamer. The series is produced by BAFTA winner Josie Besbrode. Executive producers include Melanie Archer, Rebecca Burrell, and Julia Nottingham, with Lily Kaplan serving as co-executive producer.
All episodes will debut March 6 on Hulu and via the Hulu on Disney+ bundle in the U.S., with an international premiere on Disney+.
