Summary
In July 2000, a woman was sexually assaulted by an unknown man in the changing room of a hotel swimming pool in Belleville, a city located in Ontario, Canada. The Belleville Police Department responded and began investigating, including collecting forensic evidence. Despite an extensive investigation at the time, the suspect could not be identified and the case went cold.
In 2021, the Belleville Police Department submitted forensic evidence to Othram in The Woodlands, Texas to determine if advanced DNA testing could help identify the suspect. Othram scientists successfully developed a DNA extract from the provided evidence and then used Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing® to build a comprehensive DNA profile for the man. Othram's in-house forensic genetic genealogy team used the profile in a genetic genealogy search to develop new investigative leads that were returned to investigators with the Belleville Police Department.
Using this new information, a follow-up investigation was conducted leading investigators to potential relatives of the man. Reference DNA samples were collected from a relative and compared to the DNA profile of the unidentified suspect. This investigation led to the positive identification of the man, who is now known to be William James Dale. Dale, 53, was arrested by authorities in April 2025. On September 19, 2025, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced by a judge to 13 years in prison.
“This case demonstrates how important it is to combine new investigative methods with teamwork and dedication,” said Belleville Police Chief Murray Rodd. “We remain deeply grateful to our partners and proud of the ongoing commitment of our members, who have consistently kept the victim and the community at the forefront of their work."
Funding for Othram's casework was provided by a grant from Season of Justice, a non-profit organization dedicated to funding DNA testing on unsolved cold case homicides. This case was the first international case funded by Season of Justice.
This case is a reminder that every piece of preserved evidence has the potential to unlock long-awaited answers. If you would like to support efforts to solve more cases like this, consider contributing your DNA profile to the DNASolves database which aids law enforcement in identifying suspects and giving families the answers they deserve.
The identification of William Dale represents the 19th case in the Canadian Province of Ontario where officials have publicly identified an individual using technology developed by Othram. Visit DNASolves to learn about other Ontrario cases where your support can help bring long-awaited answers to families.
Dan Miller
Director of Customer Service
Dan guides law enforcement agencies across the United States and internationally through every step of the forensic process—from crime scene to courtroom. He ensures investigators have the support and resources they need to navigate advanced DNA testing and maximize the impact of forensic evidence in their cases.