In a major breakthrough, Northern California authorities have arrested James Unick, 62, for the 1982 rape and murder of 13-year-old Sara Ann Geer. Unick was booked on charges including murder, rape, and kidnapping, stemming from DNA evidence.
Advanced DNA technology solves cold case
The Cloverdale Police Department announced that recent advancements in DNA technology led to identifying Unick as the suspect. Initially, DNA evidence was collected at the crime scene, but technological limitations at the time hindered progress.
Modern DNA genetic genealogy technology played a crucial role in the investigation. “A male DNA profile was identified from the evidence and through the use of modern DNA genetic genealogy technology,” stated the Cloverdale Police Department. The popularization of consumer DNA kits has significantly expanded databases, allowing law enforcement to compare evidence and find close matches.
Investigation tactics
Using these databases, detectives can narrow down potential suspects by identifying familial matches. This process often involves surveillance and collecting discarded items like food containers and utensils to secure an exact DNA match.
James Unick, from Willows, California, is currently held without bail in the Sonoma County Jail. It remains unclear if he has obtained legal representation. The Sonoma County Public Defender’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The 1982 crime
Sara Ann Geer was found murdered on May 24, 1982, in downtown Cloverdale. She had been abducted and raped, a crime that shocked the community and remained unsolved for over four decades.
The recent arrest brings a significant development to a case that haunted the community for years, showcasing the power of modern forensic science in solving long-standing mysteries.