Suspect in 1982 California teen girl murder arrested thanks to DNA evidence

Police in Northern California have arrested James Unick, 62, in connection with the 42-year-old cold case rape and murder of teenage girl Sara Ann Geer. Unick, from Willows, was booked on multiple charges including murder, rape, lewd acts with a minor, kidnapping for molestation, and murder during a kidnapping. DNA evidence collected at the scene of the crime in 1982 led to Unick’s arrest through modern DNA genetic genealogy technology. Unick is being held without bail, and it is unclear if he has legal representation. The popularization of consumer DNA kits has allowed law enforcement to use huge databases for comparisons, potentially leading to matches with suspects or their relatives. DNA genealogy was previously used to catch the “Golden State Killer” and the “Grim Sleeper”. Cloverdale police reopened Sara Ann’s case in 2019 and hired a private investigation firm to assist. Despite challenges such as social media rumors, the case progressed, leading to Unick’s arrest. Cloverdale Mayor Todd Lands expressed solidarity with the Geer family and praised law enforcement’s dedication to ensuring justice and safety for the community. Unick’s arrest represents a step towards closure for the Geer family and the community of Cloverdale.

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