Rolling Hills Estates, CA, January 24, 2026
The family of Susan Leeds, a retired nurse fatally stabbed in a Rolling Hills Estates mall in 2018, is seeking the maximum sentence for convicted murderer Cherie Lynnette Townsend. Townsend, found guilty of first-degree murder, faces 26 years to life in prison. The case has drawn significant public attention, with community discussions on safety measures following the tragic incident that shocked locals. Sentencing is set for January 2026, highlighting the ongoing impact of the crime on the community.
Rolling Hills Estates, CA
Victim’s Family Seeks Maximum Sentence for Woman Convicted in 2018 Mall Stabbing
Family members of Susan Leeds, a 66-year-old retired nurse fatally stabbed in a Rolling Hills Estates mall parking garage in 2018, are advocating for the maximum sentence for Cherie Lynnette Townsend, 47, who was convicted of first-degree murder in December 2025. Townsend is scheduled for sentencing on January 23, 2026, facing 26 years to life in state prison. The jury also found that Townsend personally used a knife during the commission of the crime.
Leeds was attacked on May 3, 2018, while inside her white 2016 Mercedes-Benz SUV in the Promenade on the Peninsula parking garage. The incident occurred in broad daylight, resulting in her death from multiple stab wounds.
Following the tragedy, Townsend filed a lawsuit against Los Angeles County after being arrested and released in connection with the stabbing. However, she was re-arrested more than five years later and subsequently convicted.
Background on the Case
The case has garnered significant attention due to the circumstances surrounding Leeds’ death and the ensuing legal proceedings. The community remains deeply impacted by this tragedy, and the upcoming sentencing is anticipated to provide some measure of closure for the Leeds family and local residents.
Related Legal Proceedings
In a separate but connected development, prosecutors linked the fatal stabbing to Townsend’s alleged desire to fund her daughter’s cheer competition. This connection was emphasized during the trial, providing insight into the possible motives behind the crime.
Community Impact
This incident has profoundly affected the Rolling Hills Estates community, sparking increased discussions about safety measures in public spaces and encouraging residents to remain vigilant. The community’s active involvement in dialogues surrounding safety aims to prevent such tragedies from recurring in the future.
Legal Precedents
This case is one of several high-profile criminal proceedings in California that highlight the state’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for serious offenses. Similar incidents underscore a growing focus on justice for victims and their families while elevating discussions about appropriate sentencing standards.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming sentencing of Cherie Lynnette Townsend represents a pivotal moment for the Leeds family as well as the broader community. It serves as a reminder of the importance of justice in the face of adversity and emphasizes ongoing efforts to enhance safety and security in public spaces. The case continues to resonate with the community and ignites crucial discussions about crime prevention and available support systems for those affected by tragedies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the date of the stabbing incident involving Susan Leeds?
The stabbing incident occurred on May 3, 2018.
What is the maximum sentence Cherie Lynnette Townsend is facing?
Cherie Lynnette Townsend is facing 26 years to life in state prison.
What was the motive behind the stabbing, according to prosecutors?
Prosecutors have tied the fatal stabbing to Townsend’s alleged desire to pay for her daughter’s cheer competition.
How has the community been affected by this incident?
The incident has had a profound impact on the Rolling Hills Estates community, leading to increased discussions about safety measures in public spaces and the importance of community vigilance.
What other similar cases have occurred in California recently?
In April 2025, a man was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for killing, decapitating, and burying a woman in Huntington Beach.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Susan Leeds, 66-year-old retired nurse |
| Defendant | Cherie Lynnette Townsend, 47 |
| Incident Date | May 3, 2018 |
| Location | Promenade on the Peninsula parking garage, Rolling Hills Estates, CA |
| Conviction | First-degree murder |
| Sentence Facing | 26 years to life in state prison |
| Prosecutor’s Allegation | Desire to pay for daughter’s cheer competition |
| Community Impact | Increased discussions on public safety and community vigilance |
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