Cleophus Prince Jr.: The Clairemont Killer
Overview
Cleophus Prince Jr., known as the "Clairemont Killer," was convicted of murdering six women in San Diego, California, during a nine-month period in 1990. Most of the killings occurred in or near the Clairemont neighborhood, where Prince lived after leaving the United States Navy. His victims were attacked inside their homes, usually during daylight hours, and were repeatedly stabbed with knives taken from their own kitchens.
The murders caused widespread fear throughout San Diego because the killer appeared able to enter occupied residences without attracting attention. Investigators found that Prince frequently watched women near swimming pools, beaches and fitness centers before following them home. Several women later testified that he approached their doors or attempted to enter shortly after they began preparing to shower.
Prince was ultimately convicted of six counts of first-degree murder, five burglaries connected to the killings, one rape, six attempted burglaries, nine additional burglaries and perjury. A jury found that he used a knife in every murder and that one killing occurred during the commission of a rape. He was sentenced to death in 1993.
Background and Arrival in San Diego
Cleophus Prince Jr. was born on July 24, 1967, in Birmingham, Alabama. He joined the United States Navy and was stationed in the San Diego area. In 1989, he was court-martialed for larceny and recommended for discharge after serving a brief military sentence.
In December 1989, Prince and his girlfriend moved into the Buena Vista Gardens apartment complex in Clairemont. The complex was located beside or directly across from the residences of the first three women murdered during the following four months. Prince generally worked afternoon or evening shifts, leaving him free during the late morning and early afternoon, when most of the attacks occurred.
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