In a breakthrough development, the Jerome Police Department announced on Monday the identification of the prime suspect in a horrific 1995 homicide case. After nearly three decades of investigation, DNA analysis conducted by the Idaho State Police Forensic Lab has finally provided crucial evidence leading to the closure of the case.

The victim, 84-year-old Wilma Mobley, was found strangled to death after being attacked with an axe at her residence on West Ave in August 1995. Despite the immediate response by Jerome Police Officers and an exhaustive investigation, the case remained unsolved for years due to a lack of concrete evidence.

Over the years, different detectives revisited the case, leveraging new technological advancements and DNA testing. However, it wasn't until June 2022 when Sgt. Clinton Wagner took on the investigation, determined to bring a fresh perspective to the cold case.

Sgt. Wagner promptly contacted the Idaho State Police Forensic Lab to explore the possibility of conducting DNA analysis on the evidence collected from the crime scene. In March 2023, those preserved pieces of evidence were submitted to the lab for testing.

Following thorough examination, the lab technicians made a stunning discovery. They identified a significant amount of DNA profile matching that of Danny Lee Kennison, the prime suspect, on a clasp of the victim's underclothing. Kennison, who had been a neighbor of Mobley, had no known personal relationship with her.

Tragically, Kennison had taken his own life at his residence in Filer, Idaho, in March 2001, leaving unanswered questions about his involvement in the heinous crime. With no other DNA profiles present at the scene and such a substantial match to the suspect, the Jerome Police Department is now officially closing the case.

Prior to the public release, the surviving family members of Wilma Mobley were informed about the discovery and the conclusion of the investigation. This closure brings a modicum of solace to the grieving family after years of uncertainty and longing for justice.

The use of advanced DNA testing technology has played a pivotal role in this groundbreaking resolution. It underscores the importance of preserving and reevaluating evidence in cold cases to leverage scientific advancements that were unavailable at the time of the crime.

The Jerome Police Department expressed gratitude to Sgt. Clinton Wagner for his dedication and perseverance, as well as to the Idaho State Police Forensic Lab for their expertise and meticulous analysis. This significant breakthrough serves as a reminder that justice can sometimes be delayed, but with relentless effort, it can ultimately prevail.

While the case is now officially closed, the legacy of Wilma Mobley and the impact her tragic death had on her loved ones will endure. May this resolution bring some measure of comfort to all those affected by this senseless act of violence.