Klansman Trial: DNA Used to Solve 2017 Murder/Arson

Expert witnesses from the Institute of Forensic Science And Legal Medicine gave a comprehensive report of how they confirmed the identity of Jermaine Bryan and Cedella Walder whose bodies were burned beyond recognition following an incident of double murder and arson in 2017.

The process of comparing DNA swabs and post-mortem body samples highlights the effectiveness of DNA.  After the discovery of the charred bodies among the ashes of Bryan’s new nursery home, the remains were sent to a morgue in St Catherine where samples were collected as forensic evidence. 

Two witnesses from the Institute of Forensic Science And Legal Medicine explained how they determined the identities of the bodies. As part of standard procedure in unidentified post-mortem cases, a blood sample was taken from the male and a bone sample from the sternum of the female.

The suspected mothers of the deceased were then brought to the Matilda’s Corner Police Station where their cheeks were swabbed for comparison. Through a four-step DNA testing process, it was determined that Jermaine’s blood sample was a 99.09 percent match to the swab. Cedella’s bone sample was a 99.983 percent match, providing irrefutable evidence of their relation. 

The court was assured that the technology used was up to international standard leaving no question of the integrity of the process 

Two serving members of the Jamaica Defense Force (JDF) further confirm that defendant Jermaine Robinson served in the army between August 2015 and August 2021 holding the rank of Private. Robinson, who was arrested in 2019 is charged with conspiracy to murder and being part of a criminal organization.

Court resumes on Monday at 10 am 

Reporter: Jhanielle Powell