New Orleans, La. - The New Orleans Police Department released two composite images of a wanted rapist and murderer.
Police Chief Ronal Serpas explained that DNA evidence directly connects one man to two crimes. One happened in 1992 and the other in 2000.
In the first case, 20-year-old Jennifer Altemeier of West Palm Beach, Florida was found raped and murdered on Mardi Gras morning, March 3, 1992. Her body was found in a parking area in the 900 block of Lafayette Street. The coroner's officer determined she had been strangled.
In the second case, police say a woman was raped in April of 2000. The victim told police she and her husband were separated while trying to find their car. She said she got into a car of a man who claimed to be security for the Vieux Carre. Police say the man pulled a gun on her, took her jewelry and then sexually assaulted her. The man let her go and she immediately reported the incident to police.
The rape victim provided a description of her attacker. A sketch artist was able to create two images, one of what the man may have looked like in 2000 and one of how he may appear today.
"If anyone recognizes the man that this picture represents to please call us and call us quickly," said Chief Serpas. He added, "We believe that the DNA that matches these two cases demonstrates someone who is incredibly dangerous and violent."
If you can help police identify this man call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111. You don't have to give your name and you could be eligible for a cash reward.
