Skinner was found lying in a pool of blood, and it was obvious to investigators that he put up a fight. He had several defensive wounds along with several long human hairs in his hands that belonged to his assailant.
Hamilton detectives have conducted an extensive investigation that spanned two decades. Throughout the years, 28 people were interviewed, but none could be positively linked to the murder, officials said.
In the past year, detectives began reviewing the case. With the many technological advances in DNA testing, detectives contacted the Ohio Bureau of Investigation and requested their assistance in reviewing the physical evidence, specifically the hairs that were recovered at the scene. Eventually, DNA testing positively identified Proffitt from the 28 hair samples collected from possible suspects.
Proffitt, who died of a drug overdose in 2002, was one of the suspects early on in the investigation, but detectives were unable to conclusively connect him to the crime. He knew the victim and did yard work for him, according to police who suspect robbery may have been a motive for the murder.
Proffitt had an extensive record with the Hamilton Police Department, including a felonious assault with a knife charge in October 1996.
Detectives recently met with Skinner’s family members and confirmed for them that the case had finally been solved.
“It’s important for people to know that there are true professionals here that never give up. I am very proud to lead such an outstanding organization,” Hamilton Police Chief Scott Scrimizzi said. “We have a duty to try and bring closure to the crime victim’s family. Sometimes it happens quickly, and quite frankly, sometimes it may never happen; but that doesn’t mean anyone ever forgets about it.”
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