Nationwide manhunt underway for disbarred lawyer accused in mother's 'violent' murder

ATLANTA, Ga. (WTXL) - U.S. Marshals are searching for a disbarred Georgia lawyer who's accused of violently murdering his mother a day before he was supposed to begin a 30 year jail sentence.

The U.S. Marshals-led Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force says they are searching for Richard V. Merrit, a disbarred attorney who was supposed to surrender on Feb. 1 after being sentenced to 30 years in jail in Cobb County.

Merrit is convicted of stealing money from clients and elder abuse. 

However, Merrit didn't show up and, the next day, his elderly mother was found dead. Investigators say the woman was "violently killed" and her vehicle, as well as Merrit's, were recovered at the scene.

Authorities say they were monitoring Merrit via an ankle monitor, but they said he took it off.

They say he may be driving a 2009 silver Lexus RX350, bearing a Georgia tag CBV 6004. He may have shaved his head or otherwise changed his appearance. Marshals say Merritt is considered armed and dangerous and don’t know which way he may be headed.

If you think you see him or his car, do not try to approach him. Instead, you should call 911 immediately.