The Murder Cold Case Unit of the Dallas Police Department (DPD) is responsible for investigating unsolved homicides. Detectives assigned to the unit have received specialized training in order to handle the investigation of difficult and lengthy cases.
The DPD's Homicide Cold Case Unit uses a multi-pronged approach to solving cold cases, which includes:
The team conducts a thorough assessment of the case and analyzes all of the information and evidence at their disposal, including forensic evidence, witness statements, and earlier investigation reports.
In order to acquire more information and look for contradictions in their testimonies, detectives will reinterview witnesses and prospective suspects.
In order to see if forensic evidence, such as a DNA sample, matches any current databases or can be re-analyzed with updated techniques, investigators will frequently re-examine it.
The Murder Cold Case Unit may partner with the Federal Bureau of Investigation or the Texas Rangers to tap into their extensive resources and professional knowledge.
The Murder Cold Case Unit may reach out to the general public for any fresh information or leads by using media or social media.
Create fresh leads: Investigators will try to generate new leads by reevaluating existing evidence, interviewing potential witnesses, and following up on tips and leads that may have been missed during the first investigation.
The DPD takes a holistic and methodical approach to cold case investigations, which includes employing all available resources and procedures to unearth fresh material and finally close the case.