Federal authorities are hoping tips from the public will help them locate a fugitive from justice wanted on suspicion of his mother’s violent homicide.

According to WBMA, Richard V. Merritt is accused of murder stemming from the death of a woman on Saturday at her home in DeKalb County, Georgia.

A statement from the U.S. Marshals indicates the victim was identified as Merritt’s mother and her vehicle was missing from her home. In its place, police say, was the suspect’s vehicle.

Court records show Merritt is a disbarred attorney who had previously been convicted of criminal counts including elder abuse and theft of clients’ money. He was sentenced in Cobb County and had been given an ankle monitor to wear before reporting to prison to serve his 30-year term.

Investigators believe Merritt forcibly removed the monitor one day before killing his mother. They believe he might be driving a 2009 Lexus RX 350 with Georgia license plate CBV6004.

Reports describe him as potentially armed and dangerous, urging anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts to refrain from contacting him. Instead, those with information can contact the Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force by calling 770-508-2500 or the U.S. Marshals by calling 1-877-WANTED-2. Email tips to USMS.wanted@USDOJ.gov.

As WYFF reported, police released a photo of the wanted man but stress he could have shaved his head or otherwise attempted to change the way he looks.

“Do not try to engage him,” the task force stressed. “If you see Merritt, please contact law enforcement immediately.”

[Featured image: Richard V. Merritt, U.S. Marshals]