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Unsolved Homicide Unit
The Pasadena Police Department recently created an
Unsolved Homicide Unit. The department has over 100 unsolved cases
dating as far back as 1960. In the past detectives assigned to
Homicide Assaults were responsible to review unsolved cases in
addition to their regular duties. This method proved ineffective as
active investigations consumed these detectives time leaving the
unsolved cases with little time for follow-up.
Crime scene management and advanced in technology make a number of
those previously unsolved cases, now potentially solvable. DNA
recognition, advanced fingerprinting and ballistics identification
all once unavailable, can now be used to help to review unsolved
case evidence. Every unsolved case in our files will be reviewed and
those cases with the best available evidence will receive high
priority.
Since the formation of the unit, we have already made one arrest. In
September 2007, we arrested and charged a former Pasadena resident
with murder in a 1987 rape and murder of an elderly Pasadena woman
at a board and care house. The case was solved with DNA evidence.
Although the suspect was the primary person of interest when the
original attack occurred, there wasn’t enough evidence to prove the
case. The case remained open and the suspect remained at large for
nearly twenty years. This suspect is now awaiting court hearings and
an eventual trial for the murder.
Not all the unsolved cases will be resolved this easily. Many cases
have little evidence or few witnesses and leads. Often simply
finding surviving family members of these victims is as challenging
as solving the case itself. Family members are encouraged to call
the unit and check on the status of their loved one’s case.
Information on any of these, or any criminal matter is always
welcomed from the public. The public is asked to contact the unit if
they have information about any crime and all contacts will be
confidential.
The Pasadena Police Department understands that these investigations
have never been considered “cold cases” to the victim’s surviving
family. And now by combining new technology with good old fashioned
detective work, coupled with leads and assistance from the public,
the Unsolved Homicide Unit looks to solve, prosecute the responsible
suspects and help in the process of closure for each of the victim’s
families.
If you have any information please contact the Pasadena Police
Department, Detective Section at (626) 744-4522
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