By Christine Pelisek

In response to a four-month investigation by the L.A. Weekly that last week revealed the existence of an active serial killer who has been slaughtering people in South Los Angeles since 1985, the Los Angeles City Council voted today to reward $200,000 to any person who supplies information leading to his arrest and conviction. In addition, the council approved a record-high $500,000 if the clues lead to more than one conviction, such as with an accomplice.

The killer, dubbed the Grim Sleeper by the Weekly because he took a 13-year break before bizarrely resuming his slayings, has been linked to the deaths of 11 people by DNA and ballistics matching.

In a packed press conference not far from City Council chambers this morning, Councilman Bernard Parks called for the huge reward. He was joined by Porter and Mary Alexander, parents of 18-year-old victim Monique Alexander. Porter Alexander urged anyone with possible information to come forward, calling the serial killer, who has eluded police for 23 years, a “turkey” who needs to be caught before he kills again.

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