A Promise to Helene
Summary
Dateline NBC investigates the 40-year-old cold case of Helene Przinski, murdered in Denver in 1980. The episode highlights the relentless efforts of friend Kimberly Latourette and Detective Shannon Jensen, who used genetic genealogy to identify suspect Curtis White. DNA evidence from beer mugs confirmed his guilt, leading to his confession and life sentence for the rape and murder.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Mazda and Granger
Introduction: A 40-year mission to solve a cold case
Helene Przinski: Her life, friends, and passions
The disappearance and murder of Helene in Denver
Early investigation: Clues, autopsy, and suspects
False leads: Serial killer confessions and dead ends
Sponsors: SNHU, Solace Health, and YouTube Premium
Kimberly's promise and the failure of early DNA tests
New detective Shannon Jensen takes on the cold case
Using genetic genealogy to identify the suspect
Sponsors: YouTube Premium, DSW, and SimplySafe
Identifying Curtis Allen White as the prime suspect
Surveillance, DNA match, and the sting operation
Clanton's confession and the details of the crime
Justice served: Sentencing and closure for the family
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