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Suspects In Senior's Murder Caught After His Stolen Car Listed For Sale Online

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - Sacramento police say three family members befriended an elderly man, stole from him and then took his life. The trio is charged with murder in the death of a 77-year-old Leo Curry Jr.

Curry was trying to help when he met a family seemingly in need, so investigators say. He invited 37-year-old Michael Moreno, 35-year-old Sandy George and 19-year-old Kevin Moreno into his home.

"The victim befriended these folks and they just immediately started taking advantage of him," said Sacramento Police Dept. spokesman Officer Doug Morse.

Over the span of a few weeks, the three members stole Curry's money and property before murdering him in his Shining Star Drive home.

Leo's family called police when they hadn't heard from him in days. Neighbors were suspicious too.

His car, which is normally parked in the driveway, went missing.

"It was a huge red flag to us that all the sudden it's up for sale," said Morse.

It turned out to be a key clue. Detectives found the missing car for sale online. Police say the suspects stole it and, after murdering Curry, sold it.

"I think it's just deplorable that someone would do this to an elderly citizen," said Carole Herman, who runs Foundation Aiding the Elderly.
She says this tragic case is another reminder of how easily elderly are taken advantage of.

"A lot of times, they're very lonely, so if someone tries to befriend them they're gonna latch onto that person," said Herman.

She warns there's no such thing as being too vigilant with elderly family living alone.

"Don't ever be afraid to call the police and ask for a welfare check on an elderly person. It's better to be safe than sorry," said Herman.

But why Curry? Police say they're still investigating.

Meantime, the three family members were booked into the Sacramento County Jail.

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