James City County Police spent over 30 years investigating a cold case from 1987 where an individual was abducted and sexually assaulted at the Midlands Apartment Complex. Despite exhausting all leads, a positive DNA match in 2019 led police to Richard Lee Gibson, who was incarcerated for a separate sexual offense in 2022. Gibson had fled from Williamsburg Police and was found in Florida sailing on the Caloosahatchee River.
Gibson’s DNA profile was matched to the cold case, and a search warrant confirmed the match. He was indicted for rape, abduction with intent to defile, inanimate object penetration, sodomy, and aggravated sexual battery for the 1987 offense. Police are urging any other potential victims of Gibson to come forward, as there may be other cold cases involving him. Images were released to help victims identify him, as his appearance has changed over time.
The breakthrough in the case came when a new detective was assigned to it in 2019 and submitted documents to the Virginia Department of Forensic Services, leading to the positive DNA match. Gibson’s arrest and indictment have brought hopes of solace and closure to the victim, their family, and loved ones. The department commended the work of both current detectives and former investigators, as well as the assistance provided by DFS in solving crimes.
Gibson’s criminal history includes the 2022 sexual offense for which he was incarcerated in Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail. He had fled from Williamsburg Police after being charged with unlawfully creating an obscene image of a woman. He was eventually found in Florida, thanks to a tip from a citizen who recognized him from an article on WAVY.com. Gibson’s DNA was added to the database, resulting in a positive match to the 1987 cold case.
Gibson is set to appear in court, facing charges related to the 1987 offense. The community is being urged to come forward with any information or potential cold cases involving Gibson. The police released images to help identify him, as his appearance has changed over time. The department expressed gratitude for the efforts of all involved in solving the case and the hope that the arrest will bring some closure to the victim and their loved ones.
The James City County Police Department worked tirelessly for decades to find the suspect in the 1987 cold case, only achieving a breakthrough in recent years with the positive DNA match to Richard Lee Gibson. Gibson’s arrest and indictment have shed light on his criminal history and prompted the police to encourage other potential victims to come forward. The community is urged to provide any information that could help in solving other possible cold cases involving Gibson.
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26 Comments
I bet the real killer is still out there laughing at how long it took.
I think the DNA evidence raises more questions than answers. Who else is involved?
I bet the real culprit is still out there laughing at how DNA solved it!
You never know, the real culprit might be closer than we think. DNA evidence is not always foolproof. Lets hope the right person is held accountable for their actions, regardless of where they may be hiding. Justice will prevail.
I dont buy the DNA evidence, seems fishy to me. Conspiracy? 🤔
I think the DNA evidence was planted by time-traveling aliens. Just saying. 🛸
Do you think DNA evidence is always reliable? What if its manipulated? 🤔
DNA evidence is a powerful tool, but like any evidence, it can be manipulated. Thats why proper protocols and safeguards are in place to ensure its reliability. Questioning its accuracy is valid, but dismissing it entirely undermines the justice systems efforts to seek the truth.
I think we should question the validity of DNA evidence in solving crimes.
I dont buy it, DNA evidence can be manipulated. Conspiracy theory vibes here.
I think they shouldve kept investigating without DNA. DNA is overrated, man.
I think we should ban DNA testing, its invading privacy. Thoughts?
Absolutely not! DNA testing has revolutionized medicine, solved crimes, and helped reunite families. Banning it would be a huge step backwards. Privacy concerns can be addressed through regulations, but the benefits far outweigh the risks.
Is DNA evidence really foolproof? What if technology gets it wrong?
Do you think DNA should be used more to solve cold cases?
Wow, DNA is truly magical! Makes you wonder what other mysteries itll unravel next.
DNA is fascinating, but lets not forget the ethical implications and potential misuse. The Pandoras box of genetic information raises serious privacy concerns and the risk of discrimination. Its a double-edged sword that we need to handle with caution.
Do you think DNA should be used more in cold cases? Lets discuss!
Do you think DNA evidence should be used more in cold cases?
Absolutely, DNA evidence is crucial in solving cold cases. Those who oppose its use likely have something to hide or fear being caught. Lets prioritize justice over outdated excuses. DNA doesnt lie, and its time to hold criminals accountable.
Who would have thought DNA could crack a cold case? Mind-blowing stuff!
I wonder if DNA technology will solve more cold cases in the future.
Dont hold your breath. DNA technology is powerful, but its not a magic wand. Cold cases often lack evidence or have degraded DNA. Plus, resources are limited. Its a slow, painstaking process. So, while its promising, dont expect a flood of solved cases anytime soon.
Do you think DNA technology will solve more cold cases in the future?
Do you think DNA should always be used in solving cold cases?
Absolutely, DNA should be utilized in all cold cases. Its a powerful tool that can bring closure to families and ensure justice is served. Anyone who opposes its use must not prioritize seeking truth and holding perpetrators accountable. DNA is a game-changer in solving these cases.