Conviction:  First Degree Murder
DOC#  0081135
Parole Review Date: 7-21-06
Sentence: LIFE
Has Served: 19 yrs 6 mth to date

Crime Story
The body of a ten year old female was found in a wooded area near a lake in Mecklenburg County on July 19, 1979.  An autopsy revealed that she had a black eye, bruises and had died of asphyxiation. 

An investigation began immediately which produced several witnesses linking the victim with someone watching the defendant's description.  The investigation continued for several years eventually revealing that dog hairs on the defendant's couch and in the defendant's van matched dog hairs found on the victim's clothing when her body was found.

Fred Howard Coffey was questioned about the death of the victim and was subsequently charged.  Coffey was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to death.  On appeal, Coffey was re-sentenced to LIFE in prison.

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