Forensic Files: Collection Season 1 Episode 2 A Tight Leash
- June 27, 2007
Forensic Files: Collection is a true crime television series that focuses on forensic science and technology and how they are utilized to solve complex crimes. In season 1 episode 2, "A Tight Leash", viewers are taken through the investigation of the murder of a young woman named Cheryl Bernstein.
Cheryl Bernstein was a 23-year-old student at the University of California, Berkeley, who was found murdered in her apartment in July 1984. Her body had been stabbed multiple times and her apartment had been ransacked, with various items missing from the scene. The police soon began their investigation and were able to identify a few potential suspects. However, with no strong leads or evidence, the case went cold.
Years later, in 1995, a detective who had worked on the case heard about a new testing technique called DNA identification. This technique had only recently become available and involved analyzing DNA samples to create a genetic "fingerprint" of an individual. With this new development, the detective decided to reopen the case and try to analyze DNA found at the crime scene.
Viewers are taken through the process of DNA identification, which is shown to be a complex and time-consuming technique. However, through the hard work of forensic scientists and detectives, DNA samples were analyzed, and a match was found. The genetic fingerprint found at the crime scene matched a man named John Famalaro.
The investigation into Famalaro led to some shocking revelations. He was a convicted rapist who had been living in the same neighborhood as Cheryl at the time of her murder. He had also been in contact with her just before her death, and his alibi for the night of the murder was found to be false. In addition, DNA evidence found in his home indicated that he had also committed other violent crimes against women.
As the evidence against him built, Famalaro was arrested and charged with Cheryl's murder. The trial was long and difficult, with the defense arguing that there was not enough evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. However, the prosecution was able to use the DNA evidence to create a compelling case, and Famalaro was ultimately found guilty and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
"A Tight Leash" is a powerful episode of Forensic Files: Collection that showcases the importance of advancements in forensic science and how they can help to solve cold cases. It also highlights the hard work and dedication of detectives and forensic scientists in pursuing justice for victims and their families. The episode is both informative and engaging, and viewers will be on the edge of their seats as the investigation unfolds.