CONCORD, California – After nearly two decades on the run, a fugitive wanted in a Massachusetts rape case has finally been apprehended with the help of police in Northern California. Tuen Kit Lee, also known as the “Bad Breath Rapist,” evaded authorities in 2007 following his trial for kidnapping and raping a young woman at knifepoint in Quincy, Massachusetts.
According to the U.S. Marshals Service, Lee was convicted in September 2007 but fled before his sentencing. Massachusetts State Police had offered a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to his arrest, and the case was featured on “America’s Most Wanted.”
Nicknamed the “Bad Breath Rapist” due to his distinctive foul breath being key evidence in the case, Lee remained elusive until recent developments indicated he may be residing in Diablo, California, near Danville. Collaborative efforts between the U.S. Marshals Pacific Southwest Regional Fugitive Task Force, Danville Police Department, Massachusetts State Police, and Quincy Police Department led to his arrest.
The arrest took place near Green Valley Elementary School, where Lee was taken into custody after initially providing a false identity during a traffic stop. Despite being with a female companion for 15 years in California, she was unaware of his true identity until his confession and subsequent confirmation through fingerprints.
Law enforcement officials expressed relief at finally locating Lee, bringing closure to the victim and the investigative team dedicated to pursuing justice for over 16 years. The arrest serves as a reminder that authorities are committed to holding offenders accountable for their actions, no matter how long they may have evaded capture.
Quincy Police Department Chief Mark Kennedy commended the collaborative efforts that led to Lee’s arrest, noting that he will be held by Danville police pending extradition to Massachusetts. The resolution of this long-standing case highlights the perseverance of law enforcement in pursuit of justice for victims and their families.