Arrest Made in Connection with 2007 Unsolved Murder in Houston
Anthony Darrell Lankford, 64, has been arrested and charged with murder in connection with the unsolved murder of 43-year-old Bethal Ann Rawls in 2007.
Cold Case Reopened and New Evidence Discovered
After nearly 17 years, cold case detectives reopened the case earlier this year and used Lankford’s phone records and other evidence to connect him to the murder of Rawls. He was brought in for questioning, and DNA evidence confirmed that Lankford was a definite match for the crime.
Victim Found Beaten, Stabbed, and Strangled in Houston Apartment
Rawls’ body was discovered by a relative in a Houston apartment near the Sam Houston Tollway. She had been brutally beaten, stabbed, and strangled, leading to a thorough investigation at the time. However, new advancements in DNA technology led to the recent arrest of Lankford.
Closure for Families of Crime Victims
Andy Kahan of Crime Stoppers commented on the case, stating that the arrest brought hope to the families of other crime victims who are still waiting for justice. The motive behind Rawls’ murder has not been released by the police, leaving many questions unanswered.
In conclusion, the arrest of Anthony Darrell Lankford in connection with the 2007 unsolved murder in Houston provides closure for the victim’s family and highlights the importance of never giving up on seeking justice for victims of crime. The dedication of cold case detectives and advancements in forensic technology played a crucial role in solving this long-standing case. Let this serve as a reminder that justice may be delayed, but it will not be denied.
