“Bad Breath Rapist” Fugitive from Massachusetts Captured in California

TL/DR –

U.S. Marshals, in collaboration with California police, have arrested Tuen Kit Lee, a fugitive wanted for a Massachusetts rape case dating back nearly two decades. Lee was convicted in 2007 of kidnapping and raping a woman at knifepoint in 2005 but fled before sentencing. He was apprehended in Diablo, California after investigators received information earlier this year indicating he was possibly living there, and will be extradited to Massachusetts to face sentencing.

Northern California Police Aid in Arrest of Fugitive from Massachusetts Rape Case

Northern California authorities have assisted U.S. Marshals in capturing a fugitive, Tuen Kit Lee, connected to a Massachusetts rape case that dates back nearly two decades. Lee had been on the run since fleeing his trial in 2007, according to the U.S. Marshals Service.

Lee stood trial in 2005 for the kidnapping and rape of a young woman in Quincy, Massachusetts. Known as the “Bad Breath Rapist”, Lee was identified as the assailant by his noticeably foul breath. Lee’s whereabouts remained unknown until Massachusetts State Police investigators traced him to Diablo, California.

Investigation Leads to Arrest

Information about Lee’s suspected location was dispatched to the U.S. Marshals Pacific Southwest Regional Fugitive Task Force (PSWRFTF), who collaborated with the Danville Police Department. On Tuesday, Lee was apprehended near Diablo, California by officers from the Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section (VFAS), Quincy Police Department, the USMS Massachusetts Fugitive Task Force, and Danville police. Lee was initially apprehended during a traffic stop where he provided a false name, but later confessed under questioning.

Long-Term Fugitive Hidden in Plain Sight

Lee’s arrest came as a shock to the local community, as reported by Chris Tamayo, senior inspector for U.S. Marshals Service. Lee’s companion, who was with him at the time of the arrest, was unaware of his true identity despite their 15-year relationship.

Case Closed After 16 Years

The arrest of Lee brings closure to the victim and law enforcement officers who have tirelessly worked to locate him for over 16 years. The case sends a clear message to violent offenders who believe they can evade justice, as noted by acting PSWRFTF commander Chief Inspector Sean LoPiccolo. Lee has now been booked by Danville police and awaits extradition to Massachusetts.

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