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DNA Helps Lead Police To Suspect In 1991 Murder

Ohio Attorney General's Office

Authorities in Licking County say they've made an arrest in the unsolved slaying of a Columbus woman 26 years ago.

The Licking County Sheriff's Office says a combination of a DNA match made in 2009 and further review of the suspect's background led to Monday's arrest. The case dates to August 1991 when Licking County detectives found the body of 21-year-old Bonita Parker, of Columbus.

The sheriff's office says suspect Gustave Sapharas, of North Canton, is being held on a preliminary charge of murder in the Stark County Jail.

Sheriff's spokesman Chris Slayman says the 72-year-old Sapharas will be extradited to Licking County and the case will be taken to a grand jury.

It was unclear Monday if Sapharas had an attorney representing him on the initial charge.

The AP is one of the largest and most trusted sources of independent newsgathering, supplying a steady stream of news to its members, international subscribers and commercial customers.
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