40-Year-Old Manhunt Renewed for California’s ‘Most Prolific’ Serial Killer – blogged by @MsJennyb

The FBI is asking for the public’s help to catch the California’s “most prolific serial killer.” The killer committed at least 12 homicides, 45 rapes and dozens of burgularies across the entire state in the 1970s and 80s, Fox News reports.

The man known as the “East Area Rapist” and “Golden State Killer” has been able to keep a low profile from authorities for 40 years however, as of Wednesday, June 15; The FBI has renewed the manhunt. The bureau and Sacramento County officials are offering $50,000 for any information leading to his arrest and conviction.

In a press conference, FBI Special Agent in Charge, Monica Miller told reporters, “The victims and their families deserve justice.” The suspect is described as a white male, between 60 and 75 years old, approximately 5’10” with blonde hair, however, his identity is still unknown.

The crime spree began in the summer of 1976 with break ins. Once inside, according to authorities, the man would tie up couples and rape his female victims before taking small items from the home.

In 1978, the crimes turned lethal. The man shot and killed a couple while they were walking their dog. After the murder, the East Area Rapist committed rapes in Stockton, Modesto, Davis and the East Bay Area of California, Fox News reports.

Between 1979 and 1981, he raped and murdered several people including couples. After the summer of 1981, the serial killer took a hiatus until the rape and murder of 18-year old Janelle Lisa Cruz in May of 1986, which was the last known crime related to the serial killer.

Anyone with information on the unknown man is urged to contact the FBI.