Vulnerable Woman Found Dead in Freezer; Roommate Claims Ignorance

Vulnerable Woman Found Dead in Freezer; Roommate Claims Ignorance

In a case that has shocked investigators with its bizarre circumstances, Las Vegas police discovered the body of Mo’Nique Gilbertson, 68, in a locked freezer. Her roommate, Daniel Rash, also known as Jaseline, was arrested at the scene and later charged with second-degree murder. The discovery was made on November 6, 2024, after friends reported Mo’Nique missing for over two weeks.

A Welfare Check Turns Grim

The Las Vegas police were called to a mobile home in the eastern part of the city for a welfare check. Mo’Nique Gilbertson, who usually maintained daily contact with friends and her front office, had not been heard from since October 22, 2024. Her car was found in the driveway, and her pets were left behind, raising immediate concerns.

Upon arrival, officers found the front door locked and some windows covered with yellow foil, making entry difficult. A locksmith was called. When officers finally gained access, they found the home in disarray. Amidst the mess, a locked freezer, covered with blankets and towels, caught their attention. The grim discovery inside would soon explain Mo’Nique’s disappearance.

Mo’Nique’s Life: A Downward Spiral

Mo’Nique Gilbertson, born Lynn Thomas in Buffalo, New York, had a life that took a difficult turn. In her younger years, she was described as ambitious, studying at Chaffi College and obtaining a real estate license in 1997. By the 1980s, she was a successful real estate agent. However, by 1999, her life began to unravel after a divorce from her husband, whom she deeply loved.

Her career faltered, and she stopped working due to disability. Her real estate license expired in 2008, and she lost her home to foreclosure. By 2010, she filed for bankruptcy, listing significant debt. After her father passed away, she moved into a mobile home park in Las Vegas with her two dogs, Tanya and Zenzen, and kept birds. She was known to be lonely and vulnerable, often dressing up her Chihuahua and struggling with mental health issues, including panic attacks and a past opioid addiction.

The Roommate’s Suspicious Behavior

Daniel Rash, 37, who identified as transgender and also went by Jaseline, was found inside Mo’Nique’s home. He claimed he was house-sitting and that Mo’Nique had gone to visit her brother on the East Coast. His story was inconsistent and evasive. He refused to cooperate fully with the police, leading to an escalation of the situation.

Officers noted his defensiveness and the fact that he claimed Mo’Nique’s cell phone was broken, making it impossible to contact her. He also stated that Mo’Nique never left without her dogs, yet he was alone with them. The front office had no record of him being there, and Mo’Nique’s usual daily contact had ceased.

A Predatory Relationship Unfolds

Investigators learned that Mo’Nique had met Daniel at Home Depot and, feeling lonely and vulnerable, offered him a place to stay in exchange for handyman work. Initially, Daniel reportedly did some work around the house. However, within a week, Mo’Nique began complaining about his laziness, poor hygiene, and drug use. Her belongings started to go missing, as Daniel allegedly stole items to sell for drugs.

Mo’Nique attempted to end the arrangement, kicking him out and changing the locks. She sent him a text message stating their arrangement was over. Friends confirmed she desperately wanted him gone and had even discussed disposing of his belongings, including a handgun.

The Disturbing Discovery and Legal Proceedings

On October 22, 2024, Mo’Nique’s last known attempt to seek help was a 311 call, but she never followed up. Back at the mobile home, officers, after searching the property, finally examined the locked freezer. Upon opening it, they found Mo’Nique’s body. Forensics confirmed she had been dead for approximately two weeks.

Daniel Rash was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. He pleaded not guilty, claiming Mo’Nique died from an overdose of cocaine and opiates. However, the prosecution alleges he administered a fatal dose of fentanyl to kill her and take over her home and finances. His wife, Gina, is also facing drug charges as a co-defendant. Toxicology reports showed Mo’Nique had a lethal amount of fentanyl in her system, far exceeding a fatal dose. The trial for Daniel Rash is pending. Mo’Nique’s story serves as a tragic reminder of how loneliness and vulnerability can be exploited.

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