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 Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
LAPD releases photos of possible 'Grim Sleeper' victims, asking public for help
The LAPD is asking for the public's help in identifying photos found at the home of alleged 'Grim Sleeper' serial murderer Lonnie David Franklin Jr. He's been charged with 10 murders. Police believe there may be more victims.
(
Frank Stoltze/KPCC
)
Los Angeles Police Thursday released more than 180 photos of mostly African American women who may have been victims of the “Grim Sleeper” serial murderer.
LAPD Chief Charlie Beck said detectives found the photos at the South Los Angeles home of Lonnie David Franklin Jr. after arresting him in June for 10 murders dating back to 1985.
Police believe he probably killed more people.
“We certainly do not believe that we are so lucky or so good as to know all of his victims. We need the public’s help,” Beck said.
The chief asked people to go the LAPD’s website where the photos are posted. Police also displayed them on three giant cardboard sheets during a news conference. Most were head shots. Many were smiling.
Can you help the LAPD put names to these faces? Call 1-877-LAPD-24-7. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may call Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).
“People must remember these photos go back 20 and 30 years. People will have changed their appearance, people will have aged,” the chief said. “We’re very interested in identifying these individuals and speaking with them if at all possible.”
Detectives are particularly curious about Franklin’s activities during a 14-year period starting in the late 1980s. They’ve not identified any victims during that period, but fear he never stopped his murder spree. The apparent gap in killing earned him the moniker "Grim Sleeper."
Sponsored message
As police released the photographs, Detective Dennis Kilcoyne said he is hoping for the best.
“Our best wish is that we get a phone call from each and every one of them that everything is OK,” Kilcoyne said.
Later, the man who has led the investigation said he expected more victims. He wouldn’t say how many more.
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
