Still no sign of a Squaw Valley man who’s been missing for one month. Spencer Scarber was supposed to be sentenced Tuesday morning in Fresno County Court. Instead, the judge decided to wait until the 20-year-old is found.
“Once the defendant is before the court, let's address all legal issues, all motions, and everything that needs to be cited, before the pronouncement of judgment,” said Honorable Edward Sarkisian Jr.
Last month a jury convicted Scarber of raping a neighbor's housekeeper. The judge received several letters before Tuesday's scheduled sentencing, including one from the victim.
“A nine page handwritten letter,” said Sarkisian.
Attorneys on both sides say they don't know where Scarber is. Deputy Chris Curtice says two detectives are still actively searching for him.
“We haven't let up because we keep getting tips here and there; different kinds of leads we have to follow up on no matter where they go,” said Curtice, spokesperson for the Fresno County Sheriff’s Department.
The prosecution believes Scarber fled to Mexico with the help of his family. Others believe he may have been kidnapped. The sheriff's department served a search warrant at his family's home December 19th.
“We do not believe he was kidnapped. He is a convicted rapist, he's on the run, and he's eventually going to get caught,” said Curtice.
Scarber could face 70 years to life in prison. His father is an assistant chief with the California Highway Patrol. His employment status has not changed.
