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DNA Breakthrough Solves 39-Year-Old Florida Kidnapping
30 Apr
Summary
- DNA evidence linked a suspect to a 1989 kidnapping and sexual battery.
- The suspect was arrested in the Philippines after decades on the run.
- The case remained cold for nearly 40 years before recent advancements.

Authorities have arrested a man overseas in connection with a nearly 40-year-old cold case. The suspect, identified as Tom Talmadge, 69, was taken into custody in the Philippines on April 23.
He faces charges related to the 1989 kidnapping and sexual battery of a 7-year-old girl in Florida. Talmadge allegedly approached the child at a bowling alley, lured her into his car, and then abandoned her at another location.
The case went cold for decades until Florida Department of Law Enforcement investigators used DNA evidence and genealogical research to identify Talmadge. His arrest was part of an international effort to combat crimes against children.
Talmadge is currently awaiting extradition to the United States to face multiple felony charges, including sexual battery and kidnapping.