November 12, 2007, Canton, MI - On Friday, November 9, 2007, at approximately 8 p.m., the Canton Police were notified by Northville Twp. Police the homicide they were investigating involving Daniel Sorenson led them to a location in Canton where the murder actually occurred.

Canton Police became actively involved and will continue as the lead investigating agency in the criminal case. With the collaborative efforts of both Livonia and Northville Twp. Police Departments, two suspects were taken into custody and are being held at the Canton Police Department.

Further investigation led Canton Police to Hines Park where the severed head of the victim was found in the Rouge River. The Wayne County Sheriff’s Dive Team was called in to assist with the recovery effort and the evidence was turned over to the Wayne County Medical Examiner’s Office.

So far, Canton investigators have found no connection with this heinous crime and the victim’s sex offender status. According to lead investigators, this appears to be horrific, violent crime with no apparent ties to drugs or sex.

The case has been presented to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office for review and both defendants are being charged with:

Homicide 1st degree—Felony life
Felony murder—Life without parole
Disinterment and Mutilation (dead bodies) – 10 years

The suspects are identified as:

Alexander James Letkemann, 18 of Westland (Graduate of Livonia Public schools)

Jean Pierre Orlewicz, 17 of Plymouth Twp. (Canton High school senior)

Arraignment Information:  The defendants were arraigned today at the 34th District Court in Romulus. A not guilty plea has been entered on their behalf and both were remanded to the Wayne County Jail. The preliminary exam court date is set for Monday November 19th @ 8:30 a.m. in the 35th District Court at 660 Plymouth Rd, Plymouth Mi 48170.

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