Ep 10. Moss, Not Grass

In Forensic Files season 10 episode 10, titled "Moss, Not Grass," viewers are taken through a fascinating and intricate investigation into a 1991 murder case involving a young woman named DeAnn Katherine Long. DeAnn was a 19-year-old college student who had aspirations of becoming a veterinarian. She had recently transferred from Oklahoma State University to Texas A&M University, where she was studying animal sciences.

On the evening of October 20, 1991, DeAnn failed to return home after running errands. Her roommate reported her missing the following day, and her family and friends began to grow increasingly concerned. The authorities launched a statewide search effort, and the news of DeAnn's disappearance quickly spread throughout Texas.

Four days later, DeAnn's partially clothed body was discovered in a wooded area near Lake Bryan in Brazos County. She had been strangled and sexually assaulted. The community was devastated by the senseless violence and the loss of a promising young life.

The case initially went cold, with few leads and little physical evidence to go on. However, investigators continued to work tirelessly, and in 1995, a breakthrough came when DNA evidence linked a man named Donald Bess to the crime.

Donald Bess was a married man who lived in the same town as DeAnn. He had a history of violence against women and a criminal record that included assault and burglary. Bess was immediately arrested and charged with DeAnn's murder, but he maintained his innocence throughout his trial.

The prosecution's case hinged on the DNA evidence, which was presented in great detail during the trial. The forensic experts who had analyzed the samples found that the DNA recovered from the crime scene matched Bess's DNA profile with an incredibly high degree of certainty. The odds of another individual possessing the same DNA profile were estimated to be one in several billion.

Despite the strength of the DNA evidence, Bess's defense team mounted a vigorous defense, arguing that the DNA may have been contaminated or may have come from a consensual sexual encounter. They also pointed out that no eyewitnesses or other physical evidence tied Bess to the crime.

Ultimately, the jury found Bess guilty of murder, and he was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The case was seen as a major victory for forensic science and DNA evidence, which played a crucial role in cracking the case.

"Moss, Not Grass" is a riveting episode of Forensic Files that explores the intricate details of the DeAnn Long murder case. Viewers are taken on a journey through the complex forensic evidence and the dramatic trial that ensued, as the authorities worked to bring DeAnn's killer to justice. The episode serves as a reminder of the power of science and the tireless determination of law enforcement officials to solve even the most challenging cases.