July 12, 2010 By Wallin & Klarich

It was recently reported in the LA Times that the police arrested the alleged “Grim Sleeper” serial killer. Police went into the South L.A. home of David Franklin, Jr., 57, and arrested him without incident.

Franklin is charged with 10 counts of murder and 1 count of attempted murder. Nicknamed after taking long breaks between killings, the Grim Sleeper is alleged to have committed murders from 1985 to 2007.

Detectives used the controversial familial DNA technique to find Franklin. The familial DNA technique traces the DNA found at the scene of a crime and links it to a family member who has a sample of DNA in a criminal database. The DNA traces a close match in the Y chromosome of a male relative. With this information, detectives can identify any family members that would fit the description of the killer. This technique is legal in only California and Colorado.

Los Angeles District Attorney Steve Cooley said detectives used a piece of discarded pizza with Franklin’s DNA to make a link with Franklin’s father’s DNA. With this information, the detectives mapped out the Franklin’s family tree and narrowed down the search to either Franklin or his brother. Franklin’s brother was ruled out to be the Grim Sleeper because he was too young at the time of some of the murders.

If convicted, the allegations against Franklin could make him eligible for the death penalty.

We will continue to monitor this case as news breaks. If you or a loved one is facing a criminal charge, it is important that you speak with an experienced Southern California defense attorney. At Wallin & Klarich, our attorneys have over 30 years of experience in defending the rights of the criminally accused. Call us today at (888) 280-6839 or contact us through our website at www.wklaw.com. We will be there when you call.

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