Thief’s Kiss Leads to DNA Evidence & Arrest
In an attempt to rob a jewelry store, two young thieves allegedly tied up, gagged, and threatened the owner of a Paris jewelry store after following her home. Out of frustration of the victim not cooperating, the thieves poured petrol over her head and threatened to set it alight if she did not provide the alarm codes for the jewelry store. Eventually the 56-year-old jeweler storeowner gave in and provided the alarm codes.
Hours later after the thieves cleaned out the store of all its precious jewels, one culprit returned to release the tied up woman. As a sign of compassion, the 20-year-old thief gave the victim a kiss on the cheek. This was indeed his biggest mistake!
DNA on the victim’s cheek was obtained and analyzed and forensic scientist at the scene swabbed the woman’s cheek to isolate the genetic profile. The thief’s DNA was identified and found to be on the National DNA Database. Months later the detectives discovered that the DNA matched a man who was being detained in Southern France on suspicion of other crimes. The alleged thief admitted to the crime and stated that he kissed the victim to “make up for the trauma”. The kissing bandit remains in custody while detectives trace his co-conspirator.
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Source: The Guardian
[Abstract written by Noel Andres, ForensIQ Intern 2/12/14]
