Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved an increase and extension of the reward to those who provide information about the disappearance and death of Mitrice Richson. Since its beginning in 2009, the case has been shrouded with questions and controversy. Many people continue to be haunted by it, and demand justice and closure for Richardson’s family.
Who Was Mitrice R. Richardson?
Mitrice Richardson was a 24 year-old Cal State Fullerton grad who led a life of promise and talent. On September 17, 2009, an unfortunate series of events could have changed her destiny. Richardson was arrested that fateful evening for not paying her $89.00 bill at Geoffrey’s Restaurant in Malibu.
Why was her release so controversial?
Her arrest sparked criticism and inquiries. Mitrice was released from the Calabasas sheriff’s office at 1 am, with no apparent property. She was left lying on the ground in the darkness of night without transportation, her mobile phone, or even a purse. Her disappearance in the following days raised many questions about the practices and protocols of the sheriff branch.
When Was Mitrice last seen?
Mitrice Richardson disappeared without a trace after she was released from the Lost Hill Station of the sheriff. Nearly an entire year was lost as her whereabouts remained unclear; family and friends, in distress, desperately searched for answers.
How was she found?
Richardson’s remains, discovered in August 2010 at an abandoned marijuana farm, brought the long wait to a tragic end. This site was about 30 miles away from where she had been last seen. Even with the discovery of this site, questions continued to arise. Richardson’s death was not definitively linked to any specific motive. The government asserted there was no indication of wrongdoing; however, her family voiced strong doubt about these assertions.
Did you take legal action?
It was significant. The Richardson family vigorously contested the conclusions of authorities. In their subsequent legal battle with the county, the Richardson family highlighted the mismanagement and negligence related to Mitrice’s arrest and her release. In 2011, a settlement was reached whereby the county agreed that the family would receive around $900,000.
What are the details of the reward?
Richardson’s mysterious disappearance and subsequent death has inspired numerous efforts to uncover its details. To aid their investigation, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors offered a reward of $10,000 in 2009 to find records that may shed some light on it; and repeated the offer both 2010 and 2011.
There is renewed pressure to not only extend the duration, but to also double its price; should approval come, this reward could amount to $20,000 for information leading to arrest or conviction of anyone responsible in Richardson’s tragic demise.
What other entities offer rewards?
Yes. Malibu, Calabasas and Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors have also demonstrated their dedication to uncovering the truth, offering combined rewards of $20,000.
What is the next step in this case?
Even though the years have passed and the case of Mitrice Richardson is no longer active, the unanswered questions and memories remain. The increased reward offers hope that more information will be revealed. Beyond monetary incentives, a collective demand for justice, answers and a solution is made to ensure that no other person suffers a similar fate because of oversight or negligence.
In honoring Mitrice Richson, the community calls for accountability, a change in the system, and, most importantly, truth.
