Fugitive 'Bad Breath Rapist' Apprehended After 17 Years

Tuen Kit Lee, the Massachusetts fugitive known as the "Bad Breath Rapist," has been apprehended by U.S. Marshals and other law enforcement officials in California, ending a nearly 17-year manhunt. Lee is accused of fleeing his trial in 2007 after being found guilty of kidnapping and raping a woman in 2005.

Massachusetts fugitive Tuen Kit Lee, notorious as the "Bad Breath Rapist," has been apprehended by U.S. Marshals and other law enforcement officials in California. The arrest came after a nearly 17-year manhunt, with authorities tracking him down to Diablo, California.

Lee was initially charged with kidnapping and raping a waitress in 2005, after breaking into her home and holding her at knifepoint. During the assault, Lee wore a mask and zip-tied the victim to her bed, leaving her bound for several hours until her boyfriend found her.

The victim identified Lee as the perpetrator due to his distinctive bad breath, leading to his infamous nickname. After being found guilty in 2007, Lee fled before sentencing and disappeared, eluding authorities for years.

However, a recent tip led Massachusetts State Police to believe Lee was residing in California. Contacting U.S. Marshals in the area, they confirmed his presence and apprehended him on Tuesday morning.

Chief Inspector Sean LoPiccolo, acting commander of the U.S. Marshals Pacific Southwest Regional Fugitive Task Force (PSWRFTF), commended the unwavering efforts of law enforcement in locating and apprehending Lee.

"There are violent offenders out there who believe they can commit crimes and not be held accountable," LoPiccolo said. "Tuen Lee was on the run for more than 16 years, but the unwavering dedication by law enforcement to locate and arrest him hopefully brings peace of mind to the victim and her family."

Lee's arrest marks the end of a prolonged search that has haunted the victim and her loved ones for years. His apprehension is a testament to the determination of law enforcement and the importance of never giving up on pursuing justice.

The case highlights the persistent efforts of authorities in tracking down fugitives and ensuring that they face the consequences of their crimes. Even after years of being on the run, Lee's apprehension serves as a reminder that no criminal is beyond the reach of the law.