The nearly 40-year-old murder case of Judy Weaver has finally seen a breakthrough with the arrest of Mitchell Gaff, thanks to advancements in DNA technology.
This article details the investigation, Gaff’s criminal history, and his first court appearance.
The 1984 Murder of Judy Weaver
In June 1984, Judy Weaver was found bound and burned inside her Everett home after reports of a fire. The medical examiner determined that she had been strangled before the fire was set.
Firefighters discovered her body on a burning bed, partially naked, beaten, and tied up with a telephone cord wrapped tightly around her neck multiple times. The fire was started using a jar of Pond’s cold cream, but it was extinguished before much of the evidence was destroyed.
Breakthrough in the Case
The case remained unsolved for decades until recent advancements in DNA technology provided a crucial lead.
Detectives obtained a CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) hit on a fabric ligature used to bind Weaver’s wrists, which pointed to Mitchell Gaff as a suspect. Undercover officers then collected items from Gaff, confirming a DNA match.
Gaff’s Criminal History
Mitchell Gaff, now facing charges of aggravated first-degree murder, has a violent criminal history. In 1979, he attempted to rape a woman he forced to the ground with a gun while she was putting away her lawnmower in her garage.
He threatened to cut her throat, but she fought and escaped. Gaff received a five-year suspended sentence and probation for this crime.
In 1984, he violated his probation after pleading guilty to attacking two sisters while they slept. Gaff used a telephone extension cord to bind and beat both sisters in front of each other. One of the sisters managed to escape and called the police.
Gaff was civilly committed for 11 years and was released in 2006, after which he changed his name to Sam Wise Price.
First Court Appearance
Mitchell Gaff made his first appearance in Snohomish County Court for the decades-old rape and murder of Judy Weaver. The judge found probable cause for charges including rape, arson, and murder.
The judge also cited Gaff’s propensity for violence and deemed him a substantial danger to the community, setting his bail at no bail.
Vigilance and Tenacity of Detectives
The breakthrough in Judy Weaver’s case is a testament to the tenacity and vigilance of detectives who continued to work on the case despite its age.
The advancements in DNA technology played a crucial role in linking Gaff to the crime and ensuring that justice is served.
Conclusion
The arrest of Mitchell Gaff in connection with Judy Weaver’s 1984 murder highlights the importance of advancements in forensic science and the dedication of law enforcement to solving cold cases.
As the case progresses, more details may emerge, providing closure to Weaver’s family and the community.
