DNA evidence used to free one man, points to another suspect

The DNA used to free a Tulsa man from life in prison has now uncovered a potential suspect in a 15-year-old rape case. <br><br>News on Six reporter Jenni Monet says it's the case that put Arvin McGee

Wednesday, June 5th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

The DNA used to free a Tulsa man from life in prison has now uncovered a potential suspect in a 15-year-old rape case.

News on Six reporter Jenni Monet says it's the case that put Arvin McGee Jr. behind bars for 14 years. Wednesday, the district attorney says the DNA that made him a free man has helped track down another suspect. McGee was convicted of kidnapping and raping a Tulsa woman back in 1987, but it wasn't until just four months ago that he was released from prison through DNA evidence.

As part of promise to McGee and the rape victim, the Tulsa County district attorney sent that evidence to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation in search of a DNA match. Wednesday, DA Tim Harris says a link was found to an Oklahoma inmate currently serving time. "We're very pleased that the same DNA used to exonerate Mr. McGee has given us a potential suspect in this. DNA and science is a great tool for the criminal justice system for the justice of all."

The Tulsa Police Department has begun an investigation, and its likely proposed legislation sitting on the Governor's desk could help close this case.