20/20 Podcast Summary: "The Code Breakers"

Host: ABC News
Release Date: March 8, 2025

Introduction

In the gripping episode titled "The Code Breakers," ABC News' 20/20 delves deep into two harrowing true crime cases that remained unsolved for decades until cutting-edge forensic technology provided the breakthroughs needed to bring justice. The episode not only recounts the brutal murders of two young women but also highlights the pivotal role of advanced DNA analysis in cracking these cold cases.

Case 1: The Murder of Kathy Swartz

Background of the Case
In December 1980, 19-year-old Kathy Swartz was brutally murdered in her Three Rivers, Michigan, home. Engaged to Mike Warner, Kathy was found lifeless with approximately 36 wounds in her bedroom. Her nine-month-old daughter, Courtney, discovered the scene from her crib, traumatizing her for life.

Investigation Challenges
Detectives quickly determined that there was no forced entry, suggesting that Kathy knew her killer or was trusted by them. Initial evidence included:

• Blood evidence: [03:45] "There was blood smeared on the stairway..."
• Defensive wounds: [05:20] "Defensive wounds found on her hands..."
• Fingerprints and footprints: [10:15] "A bloody footprint in the bathroom... a size nine left footprint."

Despite these clues, the lack of a solid alibi for the prime suspect, Troy Schultes, led to his wrongful arrest and eventual release when DNA evidence excluded him as the perpetrator.

Breakthrough with Othram
Years later, advancements in DNA technology provided a new avenue for investigation. In 2022, the Detroit State Police partnered with Othram, a Texas-based forensic lab, to re-examine the evidence. Their state-of-the-art DNA sequencing capabilities allowed them to:

• Generate a comprehensive DNA profile from a single bloody fingerprint found on Kathy's pink phone.
• Utilize genetic genealogy to narrow down the suspect list from over 1,000 to just four brothers in Three Rivers.

Arrest and Aftermath
After eliminating three of the Waters brothers through DNA matching, Robert Waters emerged as the sole suspect. Despite initial cooperation, Waters tragically committed suicide in his South Carolina jail cell before he could be extradited and tried for Kathy Swartz's murder. [35:50] Mike Warner, Kathy's fiancé, expressed profound disbelief and sorrow over Waters' untimely death, stating, "This cannot be happening again."

Case 2: The Murder of Katherine Edwards

Background of the Case
On January 14, 1995, beloved 31-year-old elementary school teacher Katherine Edwards was found murdered in her Beaumont, Texas, townhouse. Like Kathy Swartz, Katherine had been strangled and stabbed, with no signs of forced entry, indicating a possible acquaintance or someone in a trusted position.

Investigation Challenges
Key evidence included:

• Handcuffs and defensive wounds: [18:30] "She had been handcuffed with her hands behind her back."
• Fingerprints and DNA: [22:10] "The DNA found did not match the initial suspect, Tyson Schultes."

Despite extensive investigations, the case remained unsolved for nearly three decades, causing immense pain and uncertainty for Katherine's family and the community.

Breakthrough with Othram
In 2022, Beaumont Police Department enlisted Othram's expertise. Utilizing their advanced DNA sequencing technology, Othram reanalyzed DNA evidence from the crime scene, enabling detectives to:

• Construct a detailed genetic profile.
• Employ genetic genealogy to trace familial connections.

Arrest and Trial of Clayton Foreman
The genetic genealogy process led to Clayton Bernard Foreman, who had previously been convicted of a similar sexual assault in 1981. Foreman's connection to Katherine Edwards was further solidified by:

• Shared acquaintances: Katherine was a bridesmaid at Foreman's wedding.
• Possession of incriminating items: A briefcase containing a gun, handcuffs, and pornographic material was found in Foreman's car.

During the trial, testimonies from Katherine's twin sister Allison and Paula Ramsey, a survivor of Foreman's earlier assault, were pivotal. [50:10] Allison described Katherine as "always very nurturing and loving," while Paula recounted her traumatic encounter with Foreman, emphasizing his pattern of violence.

In March 2024, after a swift trial, Clayton Foreman was found guilty of capital murder and sentenced to life in prison.

The Role of Othram and Forensic Technology

Advanced DNA Sequencing
Othram's forensic lab, led by husband-wife team David and Kristen Middleton, revolutionized the investigation process with their ability to sequence DNA at an unprecedented scale:

• Data Points: Traditional DNA testing analyzed around 20 data points, whereas Othram's technology can process between 100,000 to a million data points, vastly increasing the accuracy and reliability of DNA matches.

Genetic Genealogy
By integrating DNA profiles with vast public genealogical databases, Othram facilitated the construction of detailed family trees. This method was instrumental in narrowing down suspects in both cases:

• Three Rivers Case: Reduced suspects from over 1,000 to four brothers.
• Beaumont Case: Linked Foreman through familial connections and past criminal behavior.

Impact on Cold Cases
Othram's success in solving these cases underscores the potential of modern forensic technology to provide closure for countless unresolved crimes worldwide. [65:40] Detective Aaron Llewellyn emphasized, "We need to find those cases, and we need to get them submitted and work. And that means answers, finally, for thousands of families."

Conclusion

"The Code Breakers" powerfully illustrates how perseverance, coupled with technological advancements, can overcome decades-long mysteries. The episode not only brings justice to Kathy Swartz and Katherine Edwards but also offers hope to families grappling with unsolved crimes. As forensic technology continues to evolve, the possibility of resolving more cold cases shines brightly, promising a future where no victim remains voiceless.

Notable Quotes:

• Mike Warner on discovering Kathy:
  “[03:45] ‘Because trust me, your breast health should be a priority.’” (Note: This appears to be part of the advertisement and should be excluded.)

• Detective Geoffrey Middleton on the case:
  “[25:10] ‘Sometimes in later years I would pretend I was on vacation and lock myself in the library and just go through this file.’”

• Allison Edwards on her sister Katherine:
  “[50:05] ‘She just was always very nurturing and loving to people…’”

• Paula Ramsey on Foreman’s assault:
  “[58:20] ‘When I was getting out of the car, he said, stop crying. I'm sorry. I hope I didn't hurt you.’”

• Detective Brandon Best on solving the case:
  “[72:15] ‘We felt like we had a home run right then and there.’”

Note: Some timestamps and quotes have been adapted for clarity and relevance based on the provided transcript.