LOS ANGELES, Calif. – A reward of $110,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person who killed 16-year-old Tioni Theus.
Theus was found dumped on the 110 Freeway earlier this month. Her cause of death was a gunshot wound to the neck.
“Sixteen-year-old Tioni was murdered in cold blood and her killer has yet to be brought to justice,” said Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón. “We are asking for the public’s help in identifying the perpetrator so that we may hold this person accountable.”
Gascón also indicated during a press conference that Theus may have been the victim of human trafficking.
“There is evidence indicating that this young girl may have been the victim of human trafficking,” Gascón said. “[…] this speaks to why we need to do more for survivors of human trafficking, especially children who are exceptionally vulnerable.”
Gascón did not elaborate further on evidence of human trafficking.
“I want to extend my deepest condolences to Tioni Theus’s family and all that mourn this unimaginable loss,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell. “It is my hope that the rewards shared today help bring forth answers and justice for Tioni’s loved ones and the South LA community that shares the pain of this tragedy. Tioni Theus was loved. She was a promising student and like many 16 year olds, she enjoyed dancing and hanging out with her friends. Tioni and her family were robbed of her right to grow up and live a full life.”
“My colleagues and I joined together to introduce a reward motion that crosses county, city and district boundaries to encourage anyone who knows the perpetrator to come forward and bring peace to Tioni’s family, friends and our South Los Angeles community,” said Los Angeles City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson. “We must continue to publicly condemn violence against women and girls and remain an active voice in the call for justice.” Assemblymember Mike Gipson said: “I am outraged! She was someone’s daughter, sister, cousin, friend that was taken from us too soon! No family should have to bear the burden of losing their child in this matter. We must stand together. Whether Tioni’s DNA matched ours or not, she is OUR daughter and we will not rest until we find the cowards who did this. I stepped up to the plate and connected with CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray to request the Governor to utilize the Crime Tip Reward Program that would allow him to offer a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrators of this crime. I am committed to join the fight for Justice for Tioni and applaud the efforts of our leaders over at LA City Council and LA County. We need answers now!”
Troubled by the brutal and callous nature of the crime, city, county and state officials have rallied together and pledged $110,000 in rewards for the arrest and conviction in connection with Tioni’s death. Los Angeles County is offering $10,000, the city of Los Angeles is offering $50,000 and state officials have dedicated $50,000.
California Highway Patrol Assistant Chief Jesus Holguin urged anyone with information to contact the California Highway Patrol’s Major Crimes Unit at (323) 644-9550.
