The Cloverdale Police Department has announced the arrest of the primary suspect in connection with the murder of 13-year-old Sarah Ann Greer in 1982.
In a press release, police identified the suspect as James Unick, 62, of Willows.
The case was reopened in July of 2021 after having gone cold for 40 years, police said.
Investigators were able to identify Unick via DNA match based on a sample collected from the evidence, using technology that had not been available to investigators at the time of the murder.
Unick was arrested and booked at the Sonoma County jail on suspicion of murder, rape, kidnapping, and lewd and lascivious acts with a minor under 14 by force, according to police.
“Today represents a bittersweet victory for justice,” Cloverdale Police Chief Parker said via press release. “While nothing can undo the pain inflicted upon the Geer family and our community, we can finally offer some solace in knowing that the perpetrator will be held accountable.”
Chief Parker continued, “This arrest is a testament to the dedication of our law enforcement agencies and the unwavering resolve of Cloverdale’s citizens.”
Several law enforcement agencies participated in the investigation — the Cloverdale Police Department, Glenn County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI, the Department of Justice, SERI labs, the Sonoma County District Attorney’s Office, and private investigator Kevin Kline.
