Who:
Northeast Area Homicide Detectives

What:
Press Conference to Announce Reward for Arrest of Violent Killer

Where:
Northeast Community Police Station
3353 San Fernando Road

When:
Wednesday, August 28, 2002
10:00 a.m.

Los Angeles: TIMOTHY JOSEPH MCGHEE is being sought in connection with the November 9, 2001 shooting murder of 25 year-old Margie Mendoza in Atwater. Despite media publicity, a City Council reward, appeals to the community and concerted police efforts, he has managed to evade apprehension for the past eight months.

Timothy Joseph McGhee is a 29 year-old male, Caucasian, approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall, 180 to 190 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. McGhee may have a shaved head or very short hair. He has a distinctive nose, prominent ears and possibly a mustache. He has a tattoo of the word "Toonerville Rifa" on his back, the letters "TVR" on his stomach and the letters "NELA" behind his left ear. He has a muscular build and may wear a hat or wig to conceal his identity. HE SHOULD BE CONSIDERED ARMED AND EXTREMELY DANGEROUS.

On August 19, 2002, Councilman Eric Garcetti approved a $5,000 dollar reward for information leading to McGhee’s arrest. This payment would be made to the person or persons who provide police with McGhee’s location or information that directly results in his apprehension. The recipient(s) need only provide police with a means by which they can be contacted in order for payment to be rendered. Payment would be made upon McGhee’s arrest and is not contingent upon a conviction in this or any other case involving McGhee.

Northeast Area detectives feel this venture will not only expedite the arrest of a dangerous felon, it will also restore the sense of community that has been disrupted as a result of the recurring violence in Atwater.

Timothy McGhee is also wanted for questioning in regard to the murder of three people that occurred on August 8, 2001, in the 4000 block of Chevy Chase Drive in the Atwater Community. A photo of the suspect will be made available at the press conference.

For further information contact Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.