Overview of Georgia Lee (Leah) Moses
Many know the kidnapping and murder of Polly Klaas; but another Petaluma 12-year-old was murdered a few years later that most never knew. Georgia Leah Moses was murdered in 1997, her body found in a grove of trees in South Petaluma. Still unsolved her case was inaccurately covered by the media.
Georgia is described by her family members as a ‘ray of positivity to the people around her, as a loving old soul, and is described by friends as being an absolutely wonderful person, and caring friend. Georgia was known to be full of life, and ambitious about the future; she always had a smile on her face and looked out for the ones she loved.
Georgia was just 12 years old when she went missing. Barely in junior high school, Georgia was a kid with the weight of the world on her shoulders. Her story tells the tale of how the system failed, again and again, to step in when it was needed – to support and care for the ones who need it the most.
The day Georgia went missing
On the evening of August 13, 1997, Georgia, who had been spending time with a close friend, received a page from someone, who she quickly called back, before the pair walked together to a nearby gas station near the corner of Dutton Avenue and Sebastopol Road in Petaluma, California. Once Georgia and her friend arrived at the gas station, Georgia left with an unidentified man, according to her friend. Georgia gave no reasoning to her friend as to why she chose to leave with the man, though her friend claims that Georgia called her later in the evening and told her that she would not be back for the night.
Georgia’s friend identified the unknown man as a black male in his mid-to-late 20s, with black hair, medium complexion, and a slight mustache. The man stood between 6’2”-6’4” tall, weighed around 200 pounds, and was driving a small white four-door vehicle.
Nine days later, Georgia’s body was discovered
A CalTrans worker fixing a guardrail on Highway 101 discovered Georgia’s nude, badly decomposed remains. Tragically, the same day that her remains were found, Georgia’s younger sister, Angel, visited a Child Protective Service Officer where she notified the officer that Georgia was missing. Police later announced that Georgia had been sexually assaulted and strangled before being left just off the side of the highway.
In September of 1997, investigators released a sketch of their suspect to the public along with an increase in the reward for information, which now stood at $15,000.
2022 marks the 25th anniversary of Georgia’s death
Georgia’s family continues to relentlessly fight and search for answers. Georgia’s sister has created a GoFundMe to help pay for a private investigator, to increase the reward, and to pay for other expenses related to the case. Additionally, there are several social media pages dedicated to finding justice for Georgia, which you can follow, use to show your support, and receive any updates in Georgia’s case.
In 12 years, Georgia changed the world. She loved effortlessly. She cared selflessly. She took on many burdens and carried them - while wearing a smile while doing her best to make everyone else around her better...to make their lives better. The song, Georgia Lee by Tom Waits was written in honor of Georgia. "They Called Her Georgia Lee" a lyric from the song is also the title of Angel’s podcast where she shares her sister's story.
Today, there is a $25,000 reward for information leading to the individual responsible for Georgia’s death. If you have any information, please contact the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Department at (707) 565-2185 or submit your tip directly to family members and advocates at [email protected].
