Former FBI official gives insight on Jayme Closs investigation

MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) - From the first day, the disappearance of 13-year-old Jayme Closs has shaken residents of Barron, Wisconsin and mystified investigators.

Authorities told Fox 9 the number of federal and state agents involved in looking for Jayme could be dramatically scaled down soon. A former FBI official in Minnesota says it's concerning the case is losing some steam, but shouldn't at all be considered cold.

“I’m a little perplexed as to why some of these tips have dried up, although it’s not entirely uncommon especially after the initial flurry, but the fact that there isn’t tips coming in on a daily basis that’s a little concerning—a little head scratching,” said Kyle Loven, the former chief division counsel for the FBI in Minnesota and the Dakotas.

Loven has led many high-profile criminal cases during his 22 years with the bureau. He says the disappearance of Jayme Closs following the brutal murders of her parents is one of the most baffling ones yet.

Loven believes from the first moment police entered that home, a massive forensics investigation started within the house and online to trace the digital blueprints of the Closs family.

“Computers, laptop computers, cell phones, iPads, any electronic device - they want to grab all of those devices to do a complete and thorough analysis to see if they can put together a narrative to at least piece together whether or not there were communications between Jayme and someone else or the parents—just to find out what the communications were,” said Loven.

Loven believes investigators have a much more detailed picture of what happened to Jayme than they're letting on. He says there's a balance between keeping the public updated and protecting the integrity of the investigation.

The Barron County Sheriff told Fox 9 they've received over 2,000 tips and continue to field calls about the two vehicles of interest. Loven describes the process when names are given to the FBI.

“Typically, at least in my experience when someone’s name has been given to law enforcement and they have had nothing to do with the crime, they’re the first to cooperate and allow law enforcement to move on to more promising tips,” said Loven.

Although the operation to find Jayme may be slowing, Loven says that does not mean investigators are giving up.

“Law enforcement will continue to solicit tips whether the investigation is weeks old, months old or years old because of the gravity, it truly will never die,” he said.

If there are no further solid leads by the end of the week, this once 24-7 law enforcement operation will be drawn down entirely, according to the Barron County Sheriff. 

The sheriff’s office is continuing to ask anyone with information related to the case to call the tip line at 1-855-744-3879 or email jaymetips@co.barron.wi.us with any photos or videos of possible sightings.