Ep 20. Breaking the Mold

Forensic Files is a true crime television series that explores forensic science in the investigation of criminal cases. Season 1 Episode 20 is entitled "Breaking the Mold," and it follows the case of a young woman named Laura Jean Ackerson who disappeared after visiting her ex-boyfriend, Grant Hayes.

The episode begins with Laura’s family and friends expressing concern when the usually communicative young woman disappears without a trace. Police immediately begin an investigation into her disappearance and are able to identify her ex-boyfriend Grant Hayes as a suspect.

Hayes is a musician that has become increasingly unstable after breaking up with Laura. After conducting an initial interview with him, investigators determine that he is lying about his whereabouts during the time of her disappearance. They also find inconsistencies in his story about his interactions with Laura.

Through forensic analysis of Laura’s cellphone records, police learn that she had been in contact with Grant Hayes up until the day of her disappearance. Investigators also discover that Hayes and his new girlfriend, Amanda, had rented an apartment in Texas, and they decide to search the premises.

The search of the apartment yields crucial evidence including blood, which is analyzed in a forensic lab. The blood is determined to be Laura’s, and the investigation now shifts from attempting to locate Laura to determining what happened to her.

The forensic evidence in the case against Hayes and Amanda is significant, as the blood found in the apartment and on a saw, were used to dismember Laura's body, preventing an exact cause of death to be determined. Although Hayes maintains his innocence throughout the case, investigators are able to connect the dots with forensic evidence to the murder and dismemberment of Laura.

The episode delves into the various forensic laboratory techniques that were used to solve the case, including analysis of blood spatter patterns, DNA testing, fingerprinting, and ballistics analysis. It also highlights the importance of a thorough investigation and the need for police to leave no stone unturned in their search for evidence.

Overall, “Breaking the Mold” is a poignant and powerful episode that showcases how forensic science can be used to solve even the most complex crimes and help bring closure to families who have lost loved ones. The episode is a testament to the importance of forensic science in criminal investigations and a reminder of the incredible work that forensic investigators do every day to solve crimes and provide justice for victims.