This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
Camp ranger files breach-of-contract lawsuit for $1M Dorner reward
Rick Heltebrake with his dog Suni looks over the burned-out cabin where Christopher Dorner's remains were found after a police standoff Tuesday near Big Bear, Calif., Friday Feb. 15, 2013. Earlier, Heltebrake had been carjacked by Dorner.
(
Nick Ut/AP
)
A camp ranger whose truck was taken by Christopher Dorner has filed a lawsuit for the $1 million reward offered for information leading to the capture of the rogue ex-cop.
Rick Heltebrake filed the breach-of-contract suit Monday claiming his call to authorities after Dorner fled in the truck Feb. 12 directly led police to Dorner's hideout in a mountain cabin. Dorner is believed to have committed suicide after killing four others during a rampage and manhunt.
The suit names the city of Los Angeles, Riverside County and others who contributed to the reward as defendants.
RELATED: Want the Dorner reward? LAPD establishes application process for $1 million (PDF)
The LAPD has said three former judges will decide whether anyone can lay claim to the reward and how it would be distributed.
A couple tied up by Dorner and several others have submitted claims.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
