Forensic genealogy has shone a light on a cold case that haunted Johnson County, Texas, for over two decades. The body of an unidentified newborn girl was discovered in November 2001 along Briaroaks Road by a local resident. The child, referred to by authorities as Angel Baby Doe, was found with her umbilical cord still attached, raising deep concerns and an unabated desire among local law enforcement to find justice for the young victim.

DNA Leads to Arrest

The breakthrough came via Othram, a forensic testing company specializing in DNA analysis. The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office utilized Othram’s expertise to develop a DNA profile for the infant. This DNA profile sparked familial connections that ultimately led investigators to the child’s mother, Shelby Stotts. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced Stotts’ arrest on July 1, 2024.

Charges Against Shelby Stotts

Shelby Stotts faces charges that include second-degree manslaughter. Authorities allege that she abandoned the newborn on the roadside and failed to seek medical attention, leading to the baby’s tragic death as she bled from her unclamped umbilical cord. Additional evidence confirms that the infant was alive at birth.

The Attorney General’s Office said in a statement that they intend to prosecute Sotts under the laws that were in effect at the time of the offense.

A Decade’s Long Journey for Justice

The effort to solve this case reflects commendable tenacity from law enforcement. Johnson County Sheriff Adam King remarked how deeply the deputies were affected by Angel Baby Doe’s fate:The death of Angel Baby Doe broke the hearts of the deputies and officers involved in this case. Because this child did not have a family to advocate for justice or to grieve for her, the deputies filled that role. They never forgot about her and kept the case alive for over two decades.

The Impact and Future Implications of Forensic Genealogy

Forensic genealogy is rapidly becoming an invaluable tool across numerous cases.Building a family tree opens the door to possibilities and leads that our detectives would’ve never had, whether it be a victim or a suspect, said supervising investigator Ryan Bodmer. This modern investigative method involves uploading DNA profiles into public databases to identify familial connections and has proven effective in many situations.

This case stands as one of fifteen successful cold case resolutions facilitated by Othram’s advanced forensic techniques in Texas alone. As Attorney General Paxton noted: After more than twenty years, we are closer to securing justice for Angel Baby Doe and ensuring that the person responsible for this tragedy is held accountable.