Ep 24. Touch of Evil

In the Forensic Files Season 15 Episode 24 titled "Touch of Evil," we are taken to the investigation of a gruesome murder in a small town in Indiana. The victim, 81-year-old Helen Sailor, was found dead in her home with multiple stab wounds. As detectives investigate, they find several pieces of evidence pointing towards a suspect.

One of the most crucial pieces of evidence was a bloody palm print found on a wall in Sailor's home. DNA tests revealed that the palm print belonged to a man named Tony Amati. As detectives look into Amati's background, they discover that he was a convicted felon who had been released from prison just a few months before Sailor's murder.

Amati quickly becomes a major suspect in the case, and as detectives interview him, they start to unravel a web of lies. Amati initially denies any involvement in Sailor's murder and claims to have never been to her home. However, detectives find several inconsistencies in his alibi, and eventually, Amati confesses to the murder.

Further investigation reveals that Amati had planned the murder for weeks. He had even gone as far as stealing a knife from his place of work and hiding it in Sailor's yard days before the murder. Amati's motive for the murder was money - he had learned that Sailor had a large sum of cash in her home and planned to steal it.

The trial that follows is particularly compelling as the defense team argues that Amati is mentally ill and therefore not fully responsible for his actions. The prosecution argues that Amati was aware of what he was doing and executed a well-planned murder. Ultimately, the jury finds Amati guilty of murder, and he is sentenced to life in prison.

What makes this episode so interesting is the way forensic evidence played a significant role in the investigation. The bloody palm print found on the wall was a crucial piece of evidence that eventually led detectives to the killer. Additionally, DNA testing played a crucial role in establishing Amati's presence at Sailor's home during the time of the murder.

Overall, this episode is a fascinating look at the way forensic science can be used to solve complicated cases and bring criminals to justice. The complexity of the case, the twists and turns of the investigation, and the legal arguments made in the trial all make for an engaging watch.