Rolling Hills Estates Homicide Suspect Released

Cherie Townsend, 39, was released from custody Tuesday after she was booked on murder charges over the death of Susan Leeds. Leeds, 66, was attacked on May 3rd inside a parking garage during broad daylight. Leeds was found in her car with her throat cut and several stab wounds to the chest. Townsend's vehicle had been parked on the same floor.  The District Attorney's Office cited the need for more investigation to file a case.

The Sheriff's  Department assured the public that the investigation has progressed and is ongoing. 

“It is not unusual for prosecutors to request additional information and we are confident this homicide case is moving forward. Investigators also had the opportunity to obtain key statements from a suspect and collect physical evidence that is now undergoing rigorous forensic examination at an LASD crime lab.”

Investigators are not ruling out the possibility that one or more other suspects may have been involved after evidence taken from the scene led police to believe it was a robbery gone bad. 

Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS.

Photo: Getty Images


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