This week in true crime: Cold Case Cracked with Cigarette Fingerprint 🔍 Gangland Truce Rejected 💥 New Tech Detects Gunshot Residue 🧪

🔍 HEADLINE CASE

Fingerprint on a Cigarette Solves 1977 Cold Case

Nearly five decades after Jeanette Ralston was found strangled in her Volkswagen Beetle in San Jose, a breakthrough has finally brought justice. In 1977, investigators collected a fingerprint from a pack of Eve cigarettes found at the scene, but it remained unmatched for years. In 2024, advancements in forensic technology led to the re-examination of this evidence. An upgraded FBI algorithm linked the print to 69-year-old Willie Eugene Sims, a former Army private stationed at Fort Ord during the time of the murder. Further DNA analysis matched samples from Sims to material found under Ralston's fingernails and on the murder weapon. Sims, who had a prior conviction for assault with intent to murder in 1978, was arrested in Ohio and extradited to San Jose. He was arrested on May 9, 2025, and faces a potential sentence of 25 years to life.

⚖️ QUICK CUTS

• Gangland Truce Rejected: Steven 'Bonzo' Daniel, leader of Scotland's Daniel crime clan, attempted to initiate peace talks with a Dubai-based gangster known as "Miami." The truce was rejected, and the ongoing turf war has led to 32 arrests related to firebombings, shootings, and conspiracy to commit murder.
  

• Attempted Baby Abduction in Blackpool: A woman was arrested for allegedly attempting to abduct a baby in a pram at Blackpool promenade. Passersby and the parent intervened, preventing the abduction. The suspect faces charges of child abduction and police assault.
  

• Houston 'Wedding Scammer' Strikes Again: Carl Butcho, known for previous wedding scams, allegedly canceled a couple's wedding just 24 hours before the ceremony, citing a personal emergency. The couple had to hastily arrange a new venue, and complaints about Butcho's practices continue to surface online

🧪 CRIME TECH

New Method Enhances Gunshot Residue Detection

Researchers have developed a novel technique for detecting gunshot residues at crime scenes. This method converts lead residues into a fluorescent compound, allowing for more accurate and efficient identification of gunshot evidence. The advancement promises to enhance forensic investigations and strengthen evidence presented in court

🧠 SPOTLIGHT

Murderabilia, A Morbid Marketplace

From Charles Manson’s hair clippings to signed letters by Richard Ramirez, a shadowy market for "murderabilia" thrives online. Collectors claim historical interest, but critics say it glorifies killers and retraumatizes victims' families. Sites like Serial Killers Ink have sparked legal battles over whether selling these items should be protected speech or banned altogether.

🎬 TRUE CRIME WATCHLIST

• Poker Face Season 2: The crime-comedy series starring Natasha Lyonne returns on Peacock, featuring new mysteries and guest stars
  

• The Real Adolescence: Our Killer Kids: Channel 5's documentary delves into the rise of youth violence in the UK, featuring the case of Mikey Roynon.
  

• Targeted Podcast: Hosted by Zach Abramowitz, this podcast explores cases of individuals falsely accused in various fields, shedding light on systemic vulnerabilities
  

• Killer Grannies: An upcoming true crime series on Oxygen focusing on elderly individuals involved in criminal activities