DNA Match Leads to Indictment in 2000 Baltimore Kidnapping and Rape
Michael Harris, 50, already incarcerated on unrelated charges, has been indicted in connection with a 2000 kidnapping and rape case in Northeast Baltimore, based on DNA evidence. He is currently serving time at Roxbury Correctional Institution in Hagerstown.
Case Background
In June 2000, a woman reported being forced at gunpoint into a car, driven away, and sexually assaulted. According to police, the incident occurred after the woman and her boyfriend left dinner at a restaurant on Harford Road.
- The boyfriend was robbed by two masked suspects who stole his Acura.
- One suspect ordered the woman into a Nissan and drove off with her.
Investigation Details
Police found the victim early the next morning near Baltimore City College. She reported that the suspect threatened to kill her if she did not obey his orders, forced her to undress, and sexually assaulted her. After the assault, the suspect forced her out of the vehicle and then fled.
"She said the suspect threatened to kill her if she did not follow his commands. He ordered her to undress and forced sexual intercourse."
Michael Harris was indicted last week after a DNA database search linked him to the crime. His defense is being handled by the Office of the Public Defender, which did not provide a comment.
Summary
This cold case was reopened and resolved through advances in DNA technology, leading to new charges against an inmate for a violent crime committed 25 years ago.
Author's note: Advances in forensic science continue to bring justice to long-unsolved cases, demonstrating the power of DNA evidence in criminal investigations.