Vincent Hill and Jonna Spilbor Talk Frankie Gebhardt Trial | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

DNA evidence and witness testimonies are being used to re-open cold cases, leading to potential breakthroughs in solving long-standing mysteries.

Key Insights

• 🥶 Advances in DNA technology have helped solve cold cases by providing compelling evidence that can lead to arrests and convictions.
• 🥶 Cold case units have been established to re-evaluate old cases using new investigative techniques.
• 🥶 Witness testimony plays a crucial role in cold case trials, as it can provide valuable evidence and establish the credibility of witnesses.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: Is DNA evidence from cold cases admissible in court?

Yes, DNA evidence from cold cases is admissible in court, especially when it can be matched to current DNA samples and provides strong evidence for the jury.

Q: How are investigators using DNA from distant relatives to narrow down suspects?

Investigators are utilizing websites like 23andMe and Ancestry.com, where individuals submit their DNA for genealogical purposes. By comparing the DNA profiles of distant relatives, investigators can narrow down potential suspects.

Q: Why is witness testimony crucial in cold cases?

Witness testimony can provide valuable evidence, especially when multiple witnesses come forward with consistent accounts. Their testimonies help establish the credibility of the witness and can support the prosecution's case.

Q: How does a botched investigation affect a trial?

A botched investigation raises questions about the reliability of evidence and can create doubt in the minds of the jury. The prosecution must address these concerns and provide a plausible explanation for the delay in bringing the case to trial.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• DNA evidence from old crime scenes is being used in court, providing compelling evidence for juries and potentially leading to new arrests and convictions.

• Cold case units have been established to connect the dots in cases that were previously unsolved due to limited technology and investigative techniques.

• In the Timothy Coggins cold case, multiple witnesses have come forward with incriminating testimonies, potentially leading to a conviction of the accused.

• The prosecution is highlighting the earlier botched investigation to explain the delay in bringing the case to trial and to emphasize the suspect's consciousness of guilt.