Ralph Stofleth, 91

Ralph Stofleth, a 91-year-old man, was found dead in the backyard of his home in the 9842 Potter St. at about 4:45 p.m. Monday, May 19.

Deputy Luis Castro of the Sheriff's Headquarters Bureau said deputies responded to a welfare check call and were inspecting the home when they discovered Stofleh. He said the body had been lying in the yard for several weeks. According to the L.A. County District Attorney's Office, Stofleth's body was found covered with sheets and cardboard. Shortly after, the man's 56-year-old daughter, Linda Sue Copeland, was arrested on suspicion of murdering her father, Castro said. Los Angeles County Coroner's Department will determine the cause of death. Authorities believe that Stofleth was killed between Feb. 1 and Feb. 8. Deputy District Attorney Taraneh Saba of the Elder Abuse section has been assigned to the case.

(You have reached the end of the weekly listing of homicide victims in Los Angeles County, May 19 - 26, 2008.)