PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Police in Rhode Island say DNA evidence and the use of forensic genealogy has led to an arrest in a 35-year-old sexual assault case.
Authorities say 66-year-old Frank Thies was arrested last month in Indiana and faces charges of sexual assault and molestation.
The victims were aged 11 and 13 in 1987 when they were assaulted after being forced into the woods at knifepoint.
Physical evidence tied to the attacker was recovered, but it wasn't until recent developments in genetic forensics that investigators could identify a suspect and make an arrest.
Thies was arraigned Thursday in Rhode Island after being extradited from Indiana.
Latest Stories
-
Closure of major road in Hamilton County promises easier travel
City officials are optimistic that the current projects will ultimately enhance traffic flow for the thousands of travelers who navigate State Road 32 each day.LiveFree Indiana rolls out billboard campaign demanding to end ICE contract
Leaders from LiveFree Indiana and other organizations gathered on Lafayette Road to launch the next step in the #KeepIndyHome campaign on Tuesday.DHS ends ‘shoes-off’ travel policy
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced a new policy on Tuesday, allowing passengers traveling through domestic airports to keep their shoes on during security screening at TSA checkpoints.Family of Marion County Deputy John Durm files wrongful death lawsuit
The family of John Durm, a Marion County deputy who was killed by an inmate two years ago, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Eskenazi Hospital and Cintas Corporation.