Ten years after the mysterious murder of up-and-coming punk singer Mia Zapata, her case will finally be heard in a Seattle courtroom, when opening statements begin Monday in the trial of Cuban native, Jesus Mezquia.
Authorities charged the 48-year-old fisherman last January with Zapata's murder after matching his DNA with saliva samples found on the body of the Gits lead vocalist.
Mezquia, of Marathon, Florida, had his DNA file entered into a national database after a felony conviction for possession of burglary tools. He was extradited to Washington three months later and arraigned in Seattle last April. Although he pleaded not guilty to the charges and denies ever meeting Zapata, prosecutors say the forensic evidence gives them a more than solid case.
The guy never would have been found without the DNA database. Those who committed crimes long ago -- especially rapists -- ought to be worried. Details here from Court TV via CNN.com.