‘ARMED AND DANGEROUS’

Manhunt Continues for Disbarred Lawyer Accused of Killing Mother

Richard Merritt allegedly killed his mom and removed his court-ordered ankle monitor after missing his surrender date for another crime.

The U.S. Marshals have launched a nationwide manhunt for an “armed and dangerous” disbarred Georgia attorney who allegedly killed his mother and went on the run. Earlier this month, Richard Merritt, 44, pleaded guilty to ripping off clients and asked a judge if he could have two weeks to get his affairs in order before beginning his 30-year sentence. On Feb. 1, the attorney was supposed to surrender to the Cobb County Jail, but instead, he allegedly killed his mom, removed his court-ordered ankle monitor, and went on the run.

“On Feb. 2, Merritt’s elderly mother was found dead, having been violently killed. Her vehicle was missing and Merritt’s vehicle was recovered at the scene,” according to the U.S. Marshals Service, which issued an alert on Thursday. “He may have shaved his head or otherwise changed his appearance, and should be considered armed and dangerous.”