Disbarred Lawyer Is On The Run After His Mom Is Found Stabbed To Death

The U.S. Marshals Service warns that the public should not approach Richard Merritt, as he is considered to be armed and dangerous.

February 08, 2019
Richard V. Merritt [U.S. Marshals Service]

Richard V. Merritt [U.S. Marshals Service]

Richard V. Merritt [U.S. Marshals Service]

By: Mike McPadden

DEKALB COUNTY, GA — The U.S. Marshals Service is asking for the public’s help in locating Richard V. Merritt, a disbarred attorney who is on the run after allegedly murdering his mother.

According to authorities, Merritt, 44, had been convicted of theft and elder abuse and was supposed to report on February 1 to begin serving a 30-year prison sentence. Instead, it’s reported that Merritt cut off his ankle monitor and went missing. He has been on the lam ever since.

The following day, police discovered that Merritt’s elderly mother had been “violently” stabbed to death in her Stone Mountain home. Merritt’s car was parked at the scene, but his mother’s vehicle was gone.

Merritt is believed to be driving a 2009 silver Lexus RX350, with a Georgia license plate reading CBV 6004. He may also be headed to Texas.

The U.S. Marshals Service further warns that the public should not approach Merritt, as he is considered to be armed and dangerous.

Anyone who spots Merritt is asked to call the Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force at (770) 508-2500. Any and all other tip information may also be called in to the U.S. Marshals at 1 (877) Wanted-2 (1-877-926-8332) or emailed to: usms.wanted@usdoj.gov.

Read more: U.S. Marshals Service, WRAL, The State, KWTX

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