After two decades of relentless pursuit for justice, the family of Elena Lasswell, a 15-year-old brutally murdered in her home, can finally see light at the end of a long, dark tunnel. On Wednesday, July 10th, Detective Dominick Roestenberg of the Phoenix Police Department’s Cold Case Unit announced the arrest of 37-year-old Sergio Reyes, extradited from Mexico and booked into Maricopa County Jail on multiple severe charges.
Exactly 20 years to the day after the brutal killing of 15-year-old Elena Lasswell, cold case detectives with Phoenix PD arrested 37-year-old Sergio Reyes on Wednesday. Reyes was extradited from Mexico and booked into Maricopa County Jail for first-degree murder. pic.twitter.com/WPmJQRur8h
— Phoenix Police (@PhoenixPolice) July 11, 2024
“It has been 20 years to the day 15-year-old Elena Lasswell was murdered inside her home. So it’s a big day not only for the Phoenix Police Dept. but more important Elena’s family. They’ve been waiting 30 years for justice. It took a while. But through perseverance, hard work, and dedication, we were able to get Sergio Reyes back to Phoenix to face charges,” said Detective Roestenberg during the announcement.
Reyes faces charges of first-degree murder, sexual assault, kidnapping, and second-degree burglary. Held on a cash-only bond of $1,000,000, Reyes was cited as an extremely high flight risk, underscoring the determination of law enforcement to ensure he remains in custody. His next court appearance is scheduled for July 17th.
The arrest marks a significant milestone in a case that has haunted the Phoenix community and the Lasswell family for decades. Elena Lasswell was just 15 years old when she was murdered on a day that forever altered her family’s lives. The case went cold for years, with leads drying up and hope dwindling. However, the Phoenix Police Department’s Cold Case Unit never gave up, dedicating countless hours to reviewing old evidence, re-interviewing witnesses, and employing new forensic techniques.
The breakthrough came when detectives, utilizing advanced DNA analysis and collaborative efforts with Mexican authorities, managed to locate and apprehend Reyes. His extradition to Phoenix signifies not just a victory for law enforcement but a poignant reminder of the enduring pain suffered by Elena’s family and friends.
As the case progresses through the courts, the Lasswell family and the community watch closely, hoping that the legal proceedings will finally bring closure to a chapter marked by grief and loss. The arrest of Sergio Reyes is a crucial step towards healing and justice, a reminder that perseverance can eventually triumph over time and adversity.
The Phoenix Police Department continues to encourage anyone with information about cold cases to come forward, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of justice for victims and their families.
