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DNA Cracks 1983 Oregon Cold Case, Ex-Boyfriend Jailed
23 Apr
Summary
- Man sentenced to 20 years for 1983 vanishing of girlfriend.
- DNA evidence linked suspect to partial remains found decades later.
- Arrest made last year after investigation was reopened.
Marcus Sanfratello, 72, has received a sentence of up to 20 years for his involvement in the death of Teresa Peroni, who vanished over 42 years ago. Ms. Peroni was last seen with Mr. Sanfratello at a party in Selma, Oregon, on July 4, 1983. Her family reported her missing, but no substantial leads emerged for years.
A significant break in the case occurred in 1997 when a landowner discovered a human skull near the area where Ms. Peroni was last seen. The skull was eventually sent for DNA testing, and the investigation into Ms. Peroni's disappearance was reopened last year. Investigators successfully obtained DNA samples that matched the skull to Ms. Peroni, leading to Mr. Sanfratello's arrest in California.
Mr. Sanfratello, who had a history of legal troubles including prior convictions for attempted murder and burglary, pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter in Oregon. He will be eligible for parole after serving a minimum of 10 years. Ms. Peroni's family continues to mourn her loss, remembering her as a loving person.
