5 Counts for Laurean

By: Daren Copely
College Press Staff Writer

    Today, a five-count indictment has been issued for Cesar Armando Laurean in the murder of Lance Corporal Maria Lauterbach. The eight month pregnant Lauterbach was reported missing from Camp Lejune, NC in December and was later found murdered and burned on January 28 in Laurean’s back yard. The charges in the issued indictment include first-degree murder, armed robbery with a dangerous weapon and fraud. According to Oslow county district attorney Dewey Hudson, Laurean is currently at large and suspected of fleeing the country to avoid American justice.

    “It was made public that he entered Mexico,” said Hudson.

    This case began to gather national attention after local reports of Lauterbach”s missing attracted national news wires. Prior to Lauterbach’s disappearance, there were on base reports of military misconduct between Lauterbach and Laurean. Reports of rape had been filed by Lauterbach. Lauterbach claimed she was pregnant by Laurean who is currently married. Laureran denied claims at the time of the reports. Several military attendant statements accuse Lauterbach of lying in the past.

    Authorities believe that Laurean fled to Mexico to avoid the death penalty, which comes with a first-degree murder charge. Mexican law prohibits extradition to foreign countries that will impose the death penalty. Laurean is of Hispanic decent and is thought to have contacted his family, which lives in Mexico.

    Families within the military have come out against Mexico since the Mexican government refuses to release those who may be put to death.

    “I don’t think it’s any of Mexico’s business what we do with our criminals. This attitude is what keeps people fleeing to Mexico when in trouble.” said Military family member Ceasar Penske.

    As the national media slow down reporting of this story, the investigation is still very much alive. Behind-the-scenes research on where Laurean may be continues.

          When reached for comment on the investigation status, the Oslow County Police Captain, Rick Southerland said, “We are searching for this man where we feel he might be. There was a private memorial held for Lauterbach in late February at Camp Lejune. We have nothing else to release to the public.”