DNA analyst says no DNA found at crime scene links to Richard Allen

DELPHI, Ind. (WNDU) – A man accused of killing two teenage girls in Delphi more than seven years ago is on trial.

52-year-old Richard Allen accused of murders 13-year-old Abby Williams and 14-year-old Libby German. Abby and Libby went missing while hiking on February 13, 2017 near the Monon High Bridge Trail in Delphi. Their bodies were found in the woods near that trail a day later.

Allen’s trial began on October 18. It is expected to last until mid-November.

The first person to speak on the ninth day of the trial was Indiana State Police DNA analyst Stacey Bozinowski. According to our sister station WTHRshe performed DNA analysis on Abby and Libby’s bodies, as well as their clothing, blood at the crime scene, and the cartridge recovered from the crime scene.

During her testimony, Bozinowski said no DNA found at the crime scene was linked to Allen. She also said there is no DNA evidence to indicate that Abby and Libby were sexually assaulted.

Bozinowski testified that water near the creek can remove or dilute DNA. Dirt and sunlight can also affect objects’ DNA, she said. She added that it is very difficult to find DNA on a cartridge, and she did not find enough DNA on a cartridge found at the scene for further testing.

Special Judge Frances Gall also noted in court Monday that there are now 15 jurors — 12 on the jury and three alternates. WTHR reports that the man, who left Friday due to an “urgent family matter,” is no longer serving on the jury.

In 2022, jurors are expected to see two videos of Allen being questioned by police.

To view all of our previous coverage of this ongoing litigation, click here.

Stay up to date with local news from WNDU on air and online. Be sure to download 16 News Now addition and follow ours YouTube page as we continue to bring you the latest on this developing story.