On Highway 93, en route to Missoula, a haunting billboard catches the eye with Jermain Charlo’s gaze. Missoula police detective Guy Baker has been tirelessly searching for Jermain for over six years. The last known images of Jermain were captured on surveillance video in downtown Missoula on June 15, 2018, outside a bar called The Badlander.
Desperate for leads, police released the video to “48 Hours”. Detective Guy Baker remains frustrated, urging anyone with information to come forward. Jermain’s family, devastated by her sudden disappearance, recalls the events leading up to that fateful night.
Despite red flags in Jermain’s relationship with her ex-boyfriend Michael DeFrance, their history tells a tale of violence and turbulence. DeFrance, now a person of interest, admitted to discarding Jermain’s cellphone in Idaho, complicating the investigation further.
As the search for Jermain continues, the case remains a no-body homicide. Authorities are close to moving forward with charges, and the community remains vigilant in keeping Jermain’s memory alive.
Valenda Morigeau and her family refuse to give up hope, determined to find closure for Jermain. As the search for answers intensifies, the billboard of Jermain’s face stands as a stark reminder of the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.
If you have any information about Jermain Charlo’s disappearance, contact the Missoula Police Department at 406-552-6284.