The Lake County Sheriff’s Office has over 30 cases in “Cold Case” status, dating back to 1966. Ranging from homicide or undetermined / suspicious deaths, to missing persons where foul play is suspected, to unidentified remains, to sexual battery. Some persons were the victim of a combination of these crimes.

With the advancement of technology, the LCSO Cold Case Team has utilized modern techniques such as Isotope Analysis, Familial DNA, and genetic genealogy research to attempt to identify the unknown and solve cold cases.

In December 2024 and February 2025 Familial DNA testing and genetic genealogy resulted in the identification of “Judy Doe” as Rebecca Sue Hill and “Julie Doe” as Pamela Leigh Walton. These women had been unidentified since 1981 and 1988 and, since they were not in any missing person’s databases, would never have been identified without the use of these techniques. Their homicides are still open and being investigated by the team.

Through Parabon Snapshot, using the known DNA profile of an unidentified suspect or victim, we can generate a probable likeness of that person’s face, hair color, eye color, ancestry and skin color, to “see” them for the first time. (See case: “Unidentified Sexual Battery Suspect - Tavares - 2007”) This case is currently undergoing Familial DNA testing to attempt to identify the suspect.

“Sorrento Jane Doe – 1991” is also currently undergoing Familial DNA testing at Othram to attempt to identify the victim.

These cutting-edge investigative techniques allow our Cold Case Team the opportunity to work with scientists, anthropologists, and forensic genealogists from all over the country in an effort to bring closure to our cold cases.

However, the Cold Case Team needs your help! The most important piece of the puzzle, more important perhaps than modern technology, is old fashioned tips from concerned citizens. Oftentimes, one phone call from a witness is what breaks a case after years on the cold case shelf.

Imagine, being the victim of the worst type of crime. Now, imagine receiving no justice for decades. We remember, each case is a person with a life and a family who has waited a very long time for answers.

Thank you for viewing our cold cases and for any help you can provide.
Please return to this page in the future, as more cases will be added.