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
-
Wellness app launches for IMPD officers
A new app is now at the fingertips of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police officers. The Shield wellness app lets officers do self-check-ins and schedule free counseling sessions.North Central seniors visit their elementary, middle schools before graduation
North Central High School seniors are about to step into the future and graduate. Before they received their diplomas, they took a trip to the past.Federal funding cuts to Americorps impacting Indianapolis non-profits
The recent funding cuts have left many organizations scrambling, trying to figure out how to not disrupt the services they provide.Indianapolis awarded $35.5M for infrastructure overhaul
Indianapolis has secured $35.5 million in federal funding to improve transportation safety and accessibility, including long-awaited pedestrian bridges and greenway expansions.