Chewing Gum Sting Leads to Conviction in Two Decades-Old Washington Murders

Key points

• Mitchell Gaff, formerly known as Sam Wise Price, was linked to the 1984 murder of Judy Weaver and the 1980 murder of Susan Vesey through DNA evidence.
• Detective Logothetti collected a fresh DNA sample from Gaff in January 2024 by posing as a representative for an energy gum company, having him chew and spit out gum at his home.
• The DNA from the gum matched evidence from both crime scenes, including vaginal swabs, clothing, and ligatures, leading to Gaff's arrest.
• Gaff had previously been convicted for the 1979 assault of police officer Jackie Brown and the 1984 sexual assault of teenage sisters Angela and Myra, but was released in 2018 after 23 years of civil confinement.
• Gaff pleaded guilty to the two murders in early 2026 and was sentenced to 50 years in prison by Judge Edirin Okoloko.

Background

This case highlights the evolving role of DNA technology in solving cold cases, a trend seen in other recent breakthroughs such as the 1989 Cincinnati rape case solved via a discarded coffee cup and the Lake Mead barrel murder identified through genealogical DNA testing. However, unlike those cases, the Everett murders resulted in a direct conviction due to the successful collection of a fresh DNA sample from the suspect.

Why it matters

The resolution of these long-standing cases provides closure for the victims' families and demonstrates the effectiveness of innovative investigative techniques in holding perpetrators accountable for crimes committed decades ago. It also underscores the importance of maintaining cold case files and leveraging new forensic technologies to identify suspects who may have evaded justice for years.

What to watch

Mitchell Gaff will serve his 50-year sentence, which is expected to result in his death in prison given his age. The case may also lead to further reviews of other unsolved cases involving Gaff, given his history of violent sexual offenses.