Fugitive Marine's Online Activity Lead to Arrest

During his months as a fugitive from justice in Mexico, a Marine charged with killing eight-month pregnant Lance Cpl. Maria Lauterbach was in almost constant contact with his wife and family over the Internet. Authorities said his online activity eventually lead to Cpl. Cesar Laurean's arrest in Tacambaro, Mexico.

According to court documents, Laurean frequently logged on to an email account that belonged to his wife and left her messages. Also, investigators believe Laurean used a computer in Mexico City to access their joint bank account.

The court papers reveal that Christina Laurean refused to help her fugitive husband and cooperated with authorities during the month that he was on the run.

Calling Card Leads to Arrest

During that month, following the discovery of the remains of Lauterbach (left) and her unborn child in his's backyard, police almost captured Laurean at Internet cafes where he would go to get online. However, they did not catch him until he used a calling card that was given to him by a witness working with the police.

Investigators first learned that Laurean may have fled to Mexico after searching his home computer shortly after he disappeared. They found evidence that he researched buying property and finding a job in Mexico.

Laurean remains jailed in Mexico. He is fighting extradition to the United States, a process that could take more than one year under Mexican law.

Laurean and Lauterbach worked in the same unit at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, but were separated by the Marines after she accused him of rape. Initially, investigators did not pursue the allegation, but later decided to bring the case to a judicial hearing.

See Also:
Accused Marine Was Online While on the Lam

Earlier Articles:
Fugitive Marine Cesar Laurean Arrested in Mexico
Massive Manhunt Launched for Marine Suspect
Missing Pregnant Marine Is Dead

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^{Photo: Family Photo}