Help sought in finding missing man

Aaron Clemens

Friday, June 16, 2000 | 10:51 a.m.

The aunts of a man last seen in Las Vegas are asking for help to reunite the missing man with his family and possibly save his life.

Richard Rutland, 41, has a life-threatening genetic heart condition and may be suffering from blackouts and epilepsy from not getting his medicine.

"According to the doctor, he could become very confused and not be aware of his surroundings," said Sharon Vining, his aunt who traveled to Las Vegas for the second time since her nephew disappeared in early May.

"He's used to living in a small town," Vining said. "We're terrified that something has or will happen to him."

Richard was last seen at his home in California on May 3. He traveled to Las Vegas in a newly purchased 1995 light maroon Ford Escort hatchback. According to his bank records, he checked into a hotel on May 6, then three days later went to the Salvation Army until May 15. There has been no activity on his bank card since, although he had an automatic deposit of his disability check on June 1.

The aunts found a couple of security guards and change girls who saw him at the Goldspike casino on May 21, but couldn't find anybody who has seen him since.

When Vining and another aunt, Marilyn Nobles, came to Las Vegas four weeks ago, they searched for five days in homeless shelters, bus stations, hotels and the Salvation Army, handing out fliers as well.

They came back because the doctor told them that Richard had not picked up medicine to prevent potentially deadly calcification of his heart. This time they've looked at halfway houses as well, but with no luck. They are hoping a good Samaritan is caring for him and does not know that he is missing.

He has a bad back and walks stooped over, Vining said. He generally does not look people in the eye, she said. He weighs about 180 pounds, is 5 feet 6 inches tall and has green eyes.

Since there are no signs of foul play, there is little police can do, Metro Police Detective Mark Reddon said. Those who see Richard can call Metro at (702) 795-3111.