Q&A: Billy Glaze case puts DNA analysis in spotlight

Listen Story audio 5min 48sec Billy GlazeCourtesy of Delaware State Police

The Innocence Project petition filed earlier this month for convicted serial killer Billy Glaze to get a new trial relies heavily on newly-analyzed DNA evidence from decades-old crime scenes.

But is the science solid?

DNA tests show man innocent of 1980s Minn. murders, lawyers say

Sophisticated DNA analysis that can identify a person's genetic fingerprint today didn't exist when Glaze went to trial in the late 1980s for the murders of three American Indian women in Minneapolis - Kathleen Bullman, Angeline Whitebird Sweet and Angela Green.

Glaze, who was a drifter, became the prime suspect in the serial murders, was arrested and convicted based mostly on witness testimony, but little physical evidence.

Hamline University forensic science professor Glenn Hardin says at the time of Glaze's trial DNA analysis was in its infancy.

"DNA is important and tells you something," Hardin said. "If the DNA is properly preserved and analyzed it is very accurate."

With scientific advancements in DNA testing, the Innocence Project claims to have helped exonerate hundreds of people around the country.

In the Glaze case, the Innocence Project had dozens of pieces of evidence from the three crime scenes tested for DNA according to its petition filed in Hennepin County Court this month. An Innocence Project attorneys say the results not only prove Glaze was wrongfully convicted, but point to the real killer.

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Q&A: Billy Glaze case puts DNA analysis in spotlight