Bode Technology

In 1986, 16-year-old Deanna Ogg’s life was taken far too soon. In the years that followed, her case saw both conviction and exoneration—leaving critical questions unanswered and her family still waiting for the truth.

After the wrongful conviction was overturned, the case once again became an open investigation. For decades, investigators remained committed to finding answers. The TX Rangers were one of the law enforcement agencies dedicated to helping solve this case. The Rangers were one of the first agencies in the country to secure a SAKI grant specifically to help try and solve cold case r**e-homicides and serial r**es, via Familial DNA searches and FIGG, where no CODIS hits had occurred.

Nearly 40 years after Deanna’s death, that persistence and collaboration led to a breakthrough.

Working alongside the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, the Rangers and their partners, Bode supported investigators at every stage of the case. From traditional and innovative DNA testing to support CODIS searches, to advanced SNP analysis and forensic genetic genealogy to generate new investigative leads, each step helped move the case forward. Most recently, expedited testing was used to confirm the suspect’s identity prior to arrest.

This case underscores both the power and responsibility of forensic DNA. It played a role in correcting a wrongful conviction—and, years later, in helping identify a new suspect.

An arrest has now been made, bringing renewed hope for accountability in a case that has spanned generations. Our thoughts are with Deanna’s loved ones as this case moves forward.

Montgomery Co. officials credit advancement in DNA tech for arrest in teen's 1986 cold case murder Authorities in Montgomery County are crediting the advancements in DNA technology and genealogy for the arrest of a man in connection with the 1986 murder of a 16-year-old girl.