Ep 7. Love Triangle/Second Story Rapist

In season 4, episode 7 of Cold Case Files Classic, titled "Love Triangle/Second Story Rapist," two separate cold cases are explored. The episode focuses on two unsolved crimes that took place in different parts of the country, but share a common theme of sexual assault.

The first case examines the murder of a young woman involved in a volatile love triangle in Tucson, Arizona. In 1992, 20-year-old Michele Richmond was found raped and strangled in her apartment. Despite having a list of potential suspects, including her ex-boyfriend and a coworker, no one was ever arrested for the crime. Through interviews with investigators, acquaintances of the victim, and reenactments of the crime scene, the episode delves into the complex web of relationships surrounding Michele and attempts to shed light on her killer's identity.

The second case takes place in Denver, Colorado, and centers around the "Second Story Rapist." Between 1988 and 1991, a man was breaking into women's homes in the middle of the night, armed with a knife, and assaulting them. The victims ranged in age from 15 to 72 years old, and despite some similarities in the attacks, police were unable to connect them to a single perpetrator. The case went cold until a decade later when new DNA technology was able to link evidence from three separate attacks. This break in the case allowed investigators to search for a suspect, but even with DNA evidence, the man responsible for these heinous crimes remains at large.

Throughout the episode, experts in forensic science and criminal behavior provide insights into the challenges investigators face in solving cold cases. They highlight the importance of preserving evidence and using new technology to reexamine old cases. They also discuss the emotional toll of working on cases that often involve violent crimes and the satisfaction that comes with providing closure for families and victims.

"Love Triangle/Second Story Rapist" is a chilling reminder of the importance of pursuing justice for victims of violent crimes. The episode showcases the dedication and perseverance of law enforcement and forensic experts in the quest to bring closure to families and communities affected by these horrific acts.