Police Still Searching for CdM Computer Hacking Suspect

Newport Beach police have not been able to locate a private tutor wanted for questioning in a computer hacking case involving students at Corona del Mar High School, but the investigation into his whereabouts is ongoing, police said.

Timothy Lance Lai, a 28-year-old Irvine resident, was named a person of interest in the case by police on Dec. 19. According to police, Lai is suspected of teaching students at CdM High School how to illegally access and change their grades on staff computers at the school.

"We have not yet been able to locate or speak with Mr. Lai," Jennifer Manzella, police spokeswoman, said. "Our detectives are still going through the large amounts of information and documentation associated with the case."

The computer hacking incident at Corona del Mar High School came to light on Dec. 17, school district officials reported. Laura Boss, district spokeswoman, said some students are suspected of changing grades and accessing tests after allegedly having help from Lai.

Anyone with information on Timothy Lai’s location is asked to call Detective David Syvock at 949-644-3771 or Detective Sergeant Doug Jones at 949-644-3775.

Click here for today's top stories on Newport Beach-Corona Del Mar Patch.