Overview

Governor Gavin Newsom's office has announced a new initiative aimed at solving cold cases in Los Angeles County, offering rewards to incentivize information leading to arrests. This announcement comes as part of a broader effort to address unresolved homicides, including the tragic deaths of two teenagers.

The rewards, totaling $50,000, will be distributed among law enforcement agencies in LA and Orange County to assist in cracking over two dozen cold cases.

Key details

  • The initiative targets unresolved homicide cases in Los Angeles County.
  • Governor Newsom's office is offering a total of $50,000 in rewards.
  • The funds will be shared with local law enforcement agencies.
  • One of the featured cold cases involves 3-year-old Iran Moreno, who was killed by a stray bullet in 2021.
  • Iran was shot while playing video games in his bedroom on November 20, 2021.
  • Investigators are seeking information about a gray Ford Fusion linked to the shooting.
  • A previous reward of $85,000 was offered for information on Iran's case, but it remains unsolved.
  • The second case involves 16-year-old Tioni Theus, whose body was discovered along the 110 Freeway in January 2022.
  • Tioni was last seen on January 7, 2022, before telling a family member she was going to a party.
  • Multiple agencies, including state and local governments, have previously offered rewards in Tioni's case without success.
  • Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of justice for families affected by these tragedies.
  • The initiative aims to encourage community members to come forward with information.

Context

The cold cases of Iran Moreno and Tioni Theus highlight the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in resolving violent crimes, particularly those involving young victims. The new rewards initiative seeks to reignite interest and generate leads in these tragic incidents.

What happens next

Law enforcement agencies will begin utilizing the newly offered rewards to encourage community members to provide tips that could lead to arrests in these cold cases. The hope is that renewed attention will bring forth new information.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific circumstances surrounding the investigations into both cases, including any new leads or suspect information, have not been confirmed.