LAPD detectives reveal two new Grim Sleeper cases

Detectives said Wednesday night that they are investigating two additional killings that may have been committed by  Lonnie Franklin Jr., the Grim Sleeper serial slaying suspect.

The revelation came during a meeting with about 100 residents at the Bethel AME Church in South Los Angeles.

The detectives' comments were prompted by a question from a relative of a victim in one of the two new cases. The detectives acknowledged the new probes had been launched but declined to elaborate.

The church, in the 7900 block of Western Avenue, is just a few blocks from the home where Franklin was arrested in the summer. The meeting was organized by Councilman Bernard C. Parks, who represents the area.

"It's important for the Police Department to stay connected to the community," Det. Dennis Kilcoyne of the Los Angeles Police Department told The Times.

Franklin, 57, is charged with 10 counts of murder and one count of attempted murder — crimes that occurred in South L.A. and spanned three decades, prosecutors have said. Franklin has pleaded not guilty.

Detectives have released about 180 photos of women whose pictures were found on Franklin's property after investigators served a search warrant in July. As a result of those photos, 72 women were identified and ruled out as victims. Detectives still need to identify about 62 women, Kilcoyne said.

Scores of calls and tips from the photos resulted in the LAPD developing four missing-person cases.

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-- Andrew Blankstein and Robert J. Lopez

Photo: Lonnie Franklin Jr. in court. Credit: KTLA

Comments

[Perrey]

If he was active for three decades, there are probably a lot more victims. I'm willing to bet there are victims wherever he traveled to outside of L.A. If anyone has read about seriel killers, they often travel to commit the crimes. But then, maybe I watch too many SVU shows. Still, if you know about Walter Sickert, you know HE traveled a lot to commit murder. I'm just saying...

[u know]

Perrey

I bet you are right on with your hunch. I also watch too many crime shows on TV, but it makes perfect sense that there has to be more victims that have not been linked to this serial killer yet.

[gerry]

You seem to know a lot about serial killers Perry. Often they are bad spellers and I see you spelled it "seriel." Perhaps the police should be investigating YOU, hmm?

[Stubby]

Seriel is an acceptable alternative spelling of serial in the prison system or on public restroom walls.