FAQ About Cold Cases and Breakthroughs

Yes, exhumations and reexaminations of evidence can potentially lead to breakthroughs in cold cases. Here's how these processes can contribute to the resolution of long-standing unsolved cases:

• Exhumations: Exhumations involve the excavation and examination of a deceased person's remains. In cold cases where the cause of death was unclear, suspicious, or where new forensic techniques have become available, exhuming the body for further examination can provide valuable evidence. Exhumations can reveal previously undetected injuries, uncover DNA evidence, or allow for advanced forensic analysis, such as toxicology testing or modern DNA profiling.
• DNA Analysis: Advancements in DNA analysis have revolutionized cold case investigations. In cases where biological evidence was collected but remained untested or inconclusive due to technological limitations at the time of the crime, reexamining the evidence using modern DNA techniques can provide critical breakthroughs. DNA profiles obtained from crime scene evidence can be compared to updated databases, potentially identifying suspects or linking the case to other crimes.
• Forensic Technology Advancements: Reexamining evidence using new forensic technologies can yield significant breakthroughs. For example, advancements in fingerprint analysis, ballistics, fiber analysis, or toolmark examination can provide fresh insights into the evidence collected from the crime scene. The application of new techniques or the reevaluation of existing evidence using advanced forensic tools may lead to the identification of previously unnoticed patterns, matches, or connections.
• Reviewing Case Files and Witness Interviews: Cold case investigations often involve a thorough review of case files, including witness statements, investigative reports, and any other available evidence. Reinterviewing witnesses or persons of interest may uncover previously undisclosed information, trigger memories, or reveal new leads that were missed during the initial investigation. The fresh perspective gained through a comprehensive case review can open up new avenues of inquiry and potentially lead to breakthroughs.
• Public Awareness and Tips: Reopening cold cases and publicizing the reexamination of evidence can generate renewed public interest. This increased attention can lead to tips or information from individuals who were previously hesitant or unaware of the case. Tips from the public have played crucial roles in solving cold cases by providing leads, identifying suspects, or revealing overlooked details that can help advance the investigation.