Woman Sentenced to 26 Years to Life for Killing Retired Nurse at Shopping Mall

Cherie Townsend convicted of fatally stabbing Susan Leeds, 66, in Rolling Hills Estates parking garage

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Cherie Lynnette Townsend, 47, was sentenced to 26 years to life in prison for the 2018 fatal stabbing of Susan Leeds, 66, inside her car in the parking garage of a Rolling Hills Estates shopping mall. Prosecutors argued Townsend killed Leeds during a robbery, though Townsend maintains her innocence and had previously filed a federal civil rights lawsuit claiming wrongful arrest.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragedy of violent crime and the lasting impact it has on victims' loved ones. It also raises questions about the criminal justice system, including the handling of the initial investigation, Townsend's release and subsequent re-arrest, and the lengthy legal process before sentencing.

The details

Townsend was found guilty last December of fatally stabbing Leeds 17 times in the neck and upper body inside her Mercedes-Benz SUV. Leeds also had defensive wounds on her finger and bruises. Prosecutors argued Townsend killed Leeds during a robbery, as Townsend had financial troubles around that time. Townsend was initially arrested in 2018 but released days later before being re-arrested in 2023.

  • Townsend was arrested in 2018 after her phone was found under Leeds' car.
  • Townsend was released from custody five days later after prosecutors asked law enforcement to conduct further investigation.
  • Townsend was re-arrested in August 2023 by the Sheriff's Department's Fugitive Unit and has remained behind bars since then.
  • Townsend was found guilty last December of the 2018 fatal stabbing.
  • Townsend was sentenced on Friday to 26 years to life in state prison.

The players

Cherie Lynnette Townsend

A 47-year-old woman convicted of fatally stabbing Susan Leeds in 2018.

Susan Leeds

A 66-year-old retired nurse from Rancho Palos Verdes who was fatally stabbed by Townsend.

Lynn Statham

The best friend of victim Susan Leeds, who made a statement at the sentencing pleading for the maximum punishment for Townsend.

Judge John J. Lonergan Jr.

The Los Angeles County Superior Court judge who sentenced Townsend to 26 years to life in prison.

Jim McDonnell

The former Los Angeles County Sheriff against whom Townsend had filed a federal civil rights lawsuit, which was later dismissed.

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What they’re saying

“She was steady, kind and selfless. She spent her entire life healing, teaching and comforting and serving others, only to have her own life end in violence. It is that injustice I struggle to comprehend with. Why her?”

— Lynn Statham, Victim's best friend

“You're going to likely have an opportunity to get out one day, but even while you're confined, you have the opportunity to talk and see and even touch your family and your loved ones. Susan Leeds will never be able to do that.”

— Judge John J. Lonergan Jr.

What’s next

The judge's sentencing decision may be appealed by Townsend's legal team.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the lasting impact of violent crime and the importance of a thorough and fair criminal justice process, as questions remain about the initial investigation and Townsend's claims of wrongful arrest.