In an ongoing appeal for assistance, detectives investigating the 1997 death of Meaghan Louise Rose have released messages from family to Keith Lees.
An arrest warrant has been obtained for 70-year-old Mr Lees in relation to the alleged murder of Ms Rose on the Sunshine Coast.
On July 18, 1997, 25-year-old Ms Rose was found dead at the base of Point Cartwright Cliffs at Mooloolaba.
On June 25 this year, homicide cold case detectives re-examining her death attended a Victorian address to speak to Mr Lees in relation to the investigation.
The following day his vehicle was located abandoned at Portland, with Victoria Police commencing a search and rescue operation.
Mr Lees provided a false name when spoken to by police later that day in Port Fairy, Victoria.
Further investigations with the assistance of Victoria Police identified that Mr Lees was seen at a Waurn Ponds shopping centre and then leaving a Shepparton train station, both on June 27.
While there have been no further confirmed sightings, investigations indicate he may be seeking casual work in the farming and fruiting picking industries in rural and regional areas of Australia.
In an ongoing appeal to Mr Lees to come forward, and to the community for any information regarding his whereabouts, detectives have released messages from family members.
Mr Lees’ child, Wren Dawnsong, is appealing that he turn himself in.
“It’s been more than 20 years now, Meaghan’s family deserve justice. My heart breaks for them daily, justice needs to be done,” they said.
“The best thing anyone can do is to immediately contact the police if they see him, straight away.”
Meaghan’s older sister, Christine Richards, is urging the public to report any possible sightings, even if you are not certain it is Mr Lees.
“I’m asking the public of Australia, every state and territory, to please keep their eye open and try to find this man,” she said.
“If there is anyone out there that is helping or harbouring Keith Lees, please think about who you are dealing with.
“Help us to bring justice for Meaghan after all this time, please help us let her rest in peace.”
Detectives are appealing Mr Lees to come forward, and to the public for anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to immediately contact police.
Anyone who may sight him is asked to not approach him and immediately call 000. For non-urgent information, contact Crime Stoppers.
A $500,000 reward remains active for information that leads to the apprehension and conviction of the person or persons responsible for Meaghan’s death. The government reward further offers an opportunity for indemnity against prosecution for any accomplice, not being the person who actually committed the murder, who first gives such information.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
Quote this reference number: QP1701822980
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