The Tragic 1999 Murder Of Cordell Richards

The victim was eventually identified as Cordell Richards via his fingerprints. As reported by Guanabee, Richards lived in Florida his entire life, with the exception of the time he served in the United States Air Force. In the months prior to his murder, Richards placed and ad in a local newspaper seeking a roommate. Sixteen-year-old Kristel Maestas (pictured), who was reportedly "kicked out" of her home by her parents, answered Richards' ad and subsequently moved into a spare room in his apartment.

Within weeks, Maestas began complaining that Richards' unusual behavior was making her uncomfortable. According to FindLaw, Richards would frequently enter her bedroom wearing nothing but a pair of bikini underwear. On at least one occasion, Maestas said he propositioned her for sex. When she declined, Richards reportedly pushed her into the wall several times, leaving bruises on her back. On another occasion, Maestas' friend Renee Lincks, who was 15 years old, spent the night at the apartment. That evening, Richards reportedly propositioned both of the teens for sex.

As both girls were uncomfortable spending the night in the apartment, they called a friend for a ride. FindLaw reports they ultimately spent the night with 17-year-old Ronald Bell — who was Maestras' boyfriend. When Bell took the girls back to Richards' apartment, he gave them a baseball bat in case they felt threatened again. Maestras said when she and Lincks returned to the apartment, Richards continued making comments that made them feel uncomfortable.

If you or anyone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available. Visit the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network website or contact RAINN's National Helpline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).

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