Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
Seiji via Shutterstock
Cats
To cat-ch a killer: New pet database nabs UK murderer
Cats. Is there anything they can’t do? A database of cat hair has helped convict a killer in the UK.
BRITISH ACADEMICS SAY a newly created DNA database of British cats has helped convict a killer, illustrating how even pets’ genetic material can be a boon to forensic scientists.
The University of Leicester says its catalogue of 152 felines’ DNA buttressed the prosecution case against David Hilder, who was convicted of manslaughter last week at a court in the English city of Winchester.
Hilder killed and dismembered his neighbour, David Guy, in an English resort town last year, dumping his torso on a nearby beach, where it was discovered by students.
Cat hairs found on the torso matched Hilder’s pet, Tinker. Academics said Wednesday that they created the DNA database in an effort to show how accurate the match was.
have your say